Review: NEWSIES Delivers 'Something to Believe In'

From the moment we meet ragtag hero, Jack Kelly, we're swept into a world where newspaper delivery boys can tap dance, backflip and pirouette in perfect unison. Since its inception in 2011, Newsies has evolved into a cult classic. It's not without reason; with music by Alan Menken (the Disney wizard who composed tunes for The Little Mermaid, Hercules, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin and a few other legendary movies), lyrics by Jack Feldman and book by actor and playwright, Harvey Fierstein, it's only fitting that this Tony Award-winning musical should be rekindling a national tour.

Chronicling the true account of the 1899 Newspaper Strike, Newsies opens on an impoverished orphan, Jack (played by Joey Barreiro), who dreams of someday leaving New York City for the idyllic Santa Fe. Until then, he's earning wages selling newspapers with his clan of rough-and-tumble followers. However, when a wealthy publisher decides to up newspaper prices, the newsies must "seize the day" and fight for a fair shot at making a living.

It's easy to root for a bunch of misfits with Barreiro and Andy Richardson ("Crutchie") spearheading the crew. Both have astounding acting chops, exceptional vocals and give the show lots and lots of heart. As one of the only leading ladies in this story, Morgan Keene ("Katherine") brings a much-needed dose of girl power to the stage. Playing an ambitious journalist on the brink of a big break (she truly is a spirit animal to writers in the audience), Keene's performance is strong and witty. The youngest delivery boy, portrayed by Turner Birthisel, also stands out. Though the smallest member of this cast, he brings a tall order of passion, spirit and--of course--cuteness.

Fancy footwork is undoubtedly this show's strongest attribute. Award-winning choreography gives this historical event a dose of Disney magic, and leaves audiences wishing the curtain call wouldn't come so soon. There's a duet that occurs about halfway through the second act called "Something to Believe In". It can be best described that Newsies brings audiences just this--a refreshing story that says with enough hard work, determination and loyal friendship, anything is possible.

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The newsies are dancing up a storm at Chicago's Cadillac Palace Theatre. See Disney's Tony Award-winning musical during a limited engagement, now through August 7! SEIZE THE DAY and get your tickets now at www.broadwayinchicago.com.

Photo Credit: Margie Korshak Images

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