Review by Val O’Bryan for Front Row Reviewers
In Hurricane, Newsies: The Musical by Hurricane Theatrical electrifies the stage in the Hurricane City Fine Arts Building with a spirited tale of courage, camaraderie, and the indomitable spirit of youth. With music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman, and the book by Harvey Fierstein, this production is based on the Disney film’s screenplay by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White. Bursting with energetic choreography, this adaptation of the beloved 1992 film captures the heart and imagination of audiences, transporting them to the bustling streets of turn-of-the-century New York City. With a blend of rousing musical numbers, compelling characters, and a rallying cry for justice, Newsies: the Musical is a triumphant ode to the power of unity and the unwavering pursuit of a fairer world.
Director Kyle Merrick and his team have done it again. The gorgeous set design (Kyle Myrick, Nathan Merrill, and Ashley Davenport) and lighting (Kyle Myrick and Makayla Nelson Klump) are the trademarks of Hurricane Theatrical. The enormous building façades take you back to the streets of New York City in 1899 and flip around for scene changes. The fire escapes are visually appealing and fundamental for this show, adding to the urban atmosphere and serving as a functional space for the cast.
The fire escape is where the audience first meets the newsboys, including the charismatic Jack Kelly (James David) who has a beautiful voice and does a great job making the camaraderie between the newsies feel authentic. Jack and his close friend Crutchie (Reed Laudie), who struggle to make ends meet due to the unfair practices of newspaper magnates like Joseph Pulitzer (John Blasko). When Pulitzer raises the price of newspapers for the newsboys to buy, cutting into their already meager earnings, the newsies’ complaints fall on the deaf ears of Wiesel (Nathan Merrill) and the Delancey brothers (Jaiden Scott and Henry Janke). When Pulitzer announces a further price hike, the newsboys (Day Carpenter, Elizabeth Riddle, Bethany Byrd, Anna Gundstrup, Lilly Armour, Drew Burton, Austin Jackson, Cole Andra, Tyler Quincy, Riley Imlay, Kai Louderback, and Brittani Terry), led by Jack, decide they’ve had enough. They form a union, organize a strike to protest unjust treatment, and demand fair wages. They are joined by Davey (Caleb Christensen) and his younger brother Les (Capri Johnson, Zy Lewis), who bring fresh energy and determination to the cause. David and Les have a warm back and forth and are believable brothers. Jack also meets Katherine Plumber (McKenzie Harts), a young journalist and Jack’s love interest, who covers the newsboys’ strike. It is the addition of Plumber, as the daughter of Pulizter and Jack’s love interest, that sets this musical apart from the film and raises all the stakes for Jack. Entertainer and businesswoman Medda Larkin (Sara Foote) supports Jack and offers her venue as a rallying place.
This musical is well-known for physically demanding choreography. Hurricane Theatrical’s choreography by Mackenzie Harts is every bit as energetic and dynamic as audiences have come to expect. It is always amazing that these downtrodden kids can be so energetic, but that’s one of the reasons we applaud these great performers and the wonderful dancing in this production of Newsies. The large ensembles execute the high energy moves with precision. The leaps and jumps show off the darling argyle socks of the newsies (costume design by Sammy Myrick). If the dancing isn’t enough to raise your heart rate, the singing will hit you in the feels. Music director Ashley Stackhouse has done a fantastic job, and the cast’s vocals are top-notch.
Facing challenges and opposition, the newsboys stand united and gain the help of the Brooklyn newsies (Gracie Andersen, Ali Burton, Lennon Burton, Bethany Byrd, Alivia Foster, Charlotte Gubler, and Grace Palfreyman), led by Spot Conlon (Isa Johnson). Together, they take to the streets to rally other child laborers and workers in solidarity. Their strike gains momentum as they distribute newspapers containing their stories, exposing Pulitzer’s unethical practices. The strike attracts attention from both the media and the public, turning the newsboys into unlikely heroes. What makes the second act pick up even more is when the newsies recruit more and more helpers from the community, making their cause the cause of all working children.
As the pressure mounts, Jack and the newsboys confront obstacles and make personal sacrifices, all while finding their voices and fighting for a better future. With determination and courage, they work to make a difference and bring about change, capturing the attention of a discerning Governor Teddy Roosevelt (TJ Weddington).
The musical illustrates how friends become chosen family who support and empower one another. Through lively song and dance numbers, heartfelt moments, and strong camaraderie, Newsies: The Musical tells a story of resilience and unity as the newsboys strive to overcome adversity and make their voices heard in a world dominated by powerful interests.
Don’t miss your chance to seize the day and see the newsies in action.
Hurricane Theatrical presents Newsies the Musical, music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman, and the book by Harvey Fierstein.
Hurricane City Fine Arts Building, 63 S 100 W, Hurricane, UT 84737
August 4 -September 9, 2023 Monday, Friday, Saturday 7:00 PM, Saturday 2:00 PM
Tickets: $8-18
Contact: 435-668-9753
Hurricane Theatrical Facebook Page
Newsies: The Musical Facebook promo video
Photos by Alex Chamberlain.
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