Review by Torri Adams, Front Row Reviewers
Armed with a remarkable background and compelling story, Tuacahn in Ivins, Utah, delivers a valuable message about friendship, unity, and “Seizing the Day” with their production of Disney’s Newsies, the Musical. Newsies has had a special place in my heart since way back when the original movie was released by Disney in 1992. When it became a Broadway hit, it came as no surprise to me. With such a powerful story, music that will either move you to dance or to tears, and some of the most amazing dancing onstage, it was destined to make headlines itself. Tuacahn’s production is no exception. They offer everything you hope for and expect from this award-winning musical.
Newsies is based on the real story of the newsboys’ strike in 1899. The film and musical adaptation follow the fictional character, Jack Kelly. Living and working in New York, Jack yearns for the open air and freedom he believes could be found in Santa Fe. As a newsboy, or newsie, selling papers for The World is his way of living. A natural-born leader, Jack is the one many of the other newsies look up to. When the newspaper tycoons, Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hurst decide to increase the cost for newsies to purchase the papers they sell, Jack, followed by the newsies around him, decide to go on strike until the price is put back where it was. They rally newsies from other cities to come support their cause. In the stage adaptation, Jack encounters a young reporter named Katherine and a romance begins to grow. He must head the newsies, avoid the refuge, and follow his heart as he navigates life through the strike.
From the moment you walk into the amphitheater, you see Tuacahn has set the stage with a spectacular scenic design by Clayton Dombach. Up against the red rocks of Southern Utah, there is a towering ironclad frame that offers diverse uses and purposes. The varied levels add depth and interest and are utilized to depict different locations. Director Sarah Hartmann takes advantage of this, leaving no space unemployed. I enjoyed the use of projections behind the set. Gabe Aronson (projections designer) includes interesting and purposeful projections that fuel the experience instead of distracting from it. To top it all off, Rob Siler’s lighting design adds a continuous flow of color and intrigue to enhance each scene.
I had a unique experience watching this musical because the night I attended, many understudies were given the chance to show their versatility and commitment by stepping into a different role. Jack Kelly, normally played by James Everts, was played by Jackson Hurt, who usually takes the role of Davey. Without Hurt to play Davey, the task was assigned to Alec Talbott. I marveled when I thought of how these actors had to be prepared to portray two significant roles, both at the highest standard. Each accomplished this feat with dedication and verve. The performances of Crutchie (Andy Richardson) and Race (Davey Burton Midkiff) are also notable. Truthfully, I wish I could name each newsie and ensemble member as they brilliantly depict the overworked, underpaid, passionate youth of the story. Kudos to The Wojcik Casting Team for putting together such a strong group.
There are, however, additional roles that deserve praise for their outstanding performances. Abby Linderman gives character and humor to the role of Katherine, while Bella Depaola crushes the role of Spot Conlon with fire and passion. Spot Conlon is traditionally played by a male actor, but I loved the character that Depaola brings. Her costume (costume designer, Ricky Lurie) gives her the perfect edge and authority expected from the well-loved leader of Brooklyn. The character of Les is shared by Greyson Nielson and Hudson Sullivan. The night I saw the production Nielson played the role. I was impressed with his development of character and professionalism at his young age.
Music director Christopher Babbage definitely had a heavy mantle set on him with so many iconic and poignant songs known and loved by all that are familiar with them. I’m pleased to report that he proves his worth, as does the talented cast. The live orchestra and vocals are on point. Hurt, Linderman, and Talbott all have mesmerizing voices, and each sings their numbers with fervent emotion and purpose. The harmonies are beautiful, and I was again awed by Nielson singing powerfully alongside his castmates. Powerhouse Ameena McKenzie handles the role of Medda with ease and flair.
With a musical such as Newsies, you would be amiss to forgo mentioning the dancing. Let me tell you, the dancing in this show is phenomenal. Choreographer Mara Newbery Greer and associate choreographers Mallorie Mendoza and Rachel Perlman put together such captivating movement, I wanted it to go on all night. With flips, turns, jumps and, of course, fantastic tapping, this cast amazed me with their capabilities. Each dance is intricate and shows the sentiment of the specific scene. Greer does not hold back. I loved her use of the stage and set, and how she spotlights individuals with their unique abilities. It is extraordinary to see such a high standard of dancing and uniformity from so many cast members.
You don’t want to miss Tuacahn’s Disney’s Newsies, the musical. I left feeling entertained and uplifted. My feet were tapping, and I had to use great restraint not to hum or sing along to all my favorite numbers. Congratulations to everyone involved in producing such a memorable show.
Tuacahn presents Disney’s Newsies, the musical with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman, and book by Harvey Fierstein, based on the film by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White.
Tuacahn Amphitheater, 1100 Tuacahn Drive, Ivins, Utah 84738
Dates and times vary
Tickets: $44-104
Contact: 800-746-9882 (Box Office)
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