Review: NEWSIES at Musical Theatre Southwest

Based on the cult classic movie of 1992 starring Christian Bale, David Moscow, and Bill Pullman, Newsies tells the "David vs. Goliath" story of the newsboys of New York rising up to fight newspaper publishers in an attempt to secure rights for themselves. Newsies is also inspired by the real-life Newsboy strike of 1899, when Kid Blink led a group of newsies on a two-week-long strike against Pulitzer, Hearst, and other newspaper publishers. The musical shines a light on the exploitative labor practices and social injustices as a group of young kids try to fight against the powerful and corrupt businessmen of New York.

The musical features a score by eight-time Academy Award Winner Alan Menken and Jack Feldman. It also boasts a book by four-time Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein. While on Broadway, Newsies received eight Tony Award nominations, winning a Tony, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle Award for Score and Choreography

Colin Burdge, as Jack Kelly, did a good job of showing the struggle Kelly goes through as the leader of the newsboy strike tries to find his place in the world. This can especially be seen in Burdge's performance of "Santa Fe." Corban Mejia is wonderful as Crutchie, bringing a depth to the character who is the heart of the group of newsboys. Devon Griste is great as Katherine Plumber, bringing a humor to the role that had the audience frequently laughing, particularly during "Watch What Happens".As level-headed Davey Jacobs, Lando Ruiz brings a grounding presence to the production. The ensemble that made up the newsboys deserve a mention as well - they did an incredible job with the group numbers, especially with "The World Will Know", "King of New York", "Seize the Day", and "Carrying the Banner" - never letting the high energy required for the songs to waver.

Musical Theatre Southwest's production of Newsies is faithful to the Broadway production, while adapting the choreography andscenery for the Black Box Theatre in an expert manner by Jonathan Ragsdale and Joel Paul McKenzie. The costuming by Shannon Scheffler is incredible, as well, helping to evoke the feeling of late 1800's New York.

With high-energy choreography and catchy songs, MTS' engaging production of Newsies is a fun experience for the whole family, and one that should not be missed. Performances run from Friday, July 12th - Sunday, August 11th. Performances are at 7:30 PM on Friday and Saturday, with matinees at 2:00 pm on Sundays. Tickets are $25 for general admission, $23 for students, seniors, and ATG/TLC members. They can be purchased through purplepass.com or at the door. Get your tickets soon, as several productions have been sold out!

Image credit: Musical Theatre Southwest