An All-American Tale with Thrilling Song and Dance Numbers
Upbeat songs, high-energy choreography, and a timeless tale of owners versus workers. NEWSIES returns to Chicago for just 10 days, now through August 7.
This catch-your-breath American musical with heart features a Tony award-winning score with music by Academy Award winner Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman, and book by four-time Tony award winner Harvey Fierstein. It’s directed by Tony award nominee Jeff Calhoun and features choreography by Christopher Gattelli who won a 2012 Tony Award for his moves. The show is produced by Disney Theatrical Productions.
Inspired by the real “Newsboy Strike of 1899,” NEWSIES tells the tale of a band of rag-tag newspaper delivery boys in New York City. Jack Kelley is an orphan, who dreams of a better life outside of the city in Santa Fe. When publishing giants Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst raise the price of a newspaper to the boys, Jack Kelly mobilizes the newsies from across New York, organizes a union, and strikes for their rights. Along the way, he meets a reporter who puts their cause on the front page and falls in love.
The choreography is passionate and powerful with non-stop action. Flips, handstands, and original gymnastics come at every turn. Stunning special effects add to the whimsy. It is simply breathtaking and it’s hard to believe that any other show held a candle to NEWSIES for the 2012 Tony Awards competition.
Joey Barreiro as Jack has a wonderful voice, a tinge of sadness and great compassion, embellished with his flair for the romantic. Morgan Keene is equal parts beautiful, smart, and a rebel for her time. Aisha de Haas is a standout singer as Medda Larkin and Steve Blanchard as the evil Joseph Pulitzer pulls off the role with great dignity. Turner Birthisel as the adorable Les captures the audience’s heart with his big voice and winning smile.
NEWSIES is the perfect American musical, the way musicals used to be. Bring the kids. NEWSIES is playing at the Cadillac Palace Theatre at 151 West Randolph Street. For tickets, call 800-775-2000 or visit Broadway in Chicago.
