Review Roundup: NC Theatre's NEWSIES Starring Jason Gotay

North Carolina Theatre presents Disney's NEWSIES, playing July 24-29 at Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Raleigh.

Adapted from the Disney film, New York City's newsboys seize the day when they strike against unfair working conditions. NEWSIES addresses age-old themes of social injustice, exploitative labor practices and David-versus-Goliath struggles as the young learn to harness their power against a corrupt establishment. High-energy with non-stop thrills, the stage version introduces eight brand-new songs while keeping many of the beloved songs audiences know and love from the film.

Disney's NEWSIES will open Tuesday, July 24 and run through Sunday, July 29 at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium in Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts. Visit nctheatre.com to purchase tickets or call (919) 831-6941 x6944. For groups of 10 or more, call (919) 831-6941 x6949.

Established in 1984, North Carolina Theatre is Raleigh's premier, non-profit professional regional theatre. With its successful formula of producing top quality musicals with top national performers and local talent, North Carolina Theatre has been instrumental in the revitalization of downtown Raleigh over the years. Through its conservatory, it has provided exceptional arts training to hundreds of local youth. By offering broad access to live theatre, while strengthening economic growth, the organization continues to fortify the cultural vitality of the region.

Let's see what the critics have to say!

Jeffrey Kare, BroadwayWorld: As for the incredibly talented cast, it is led by Jason Gotay, who is perfect as the rebellious newsboy with a heart of gold known as Jack Kelly. I must say that out of all the Katherine's I've seen, Shannon O'Boyle's performance probably comes across the most like a real reporter. Which to me, makes her chemistry with Jason Gotay's Jack interesting to develop in this production as she is the more responsible one. Daniel Plimpton very successful pulls off the role of Davey, as he's the newsboy who goes from shy to confident throughout the show. His little brother, Les, played by Huck Borden makes for an adorable comic highlight. While it may be a cliche to call any great portrayal of Crutchie heartfelt, it is true not only thanks to Steve Raymond's performance, but also to his Act II number titled 'Letter From the Refuge'. I would also like to give a special shout-out to ensemble member Caylie Rose Newcom, who appears as a 'tomboy' among the newsies. What I liked about that casting is that it in a way creates this show's equivalent to the tomboy character of Anybodys, the only female member of the Jets, in West Side Story.

Roy C. Dicks, News Observer: Jason Gotay supplies star power as Jack, revealing the character's compassionate soul under a tough-guy exterior. His ringing voice soars in several big numbers, including his gripping "Santa Fe," a dream of a better world. When the radiant Shannon O'Boyle joins him for "Something to Believe In," it's lump in the throat time. On her own, O'Boyle's precision dazzles in the clever patter song, "Watch What Happens."

Shannon Plummer-White, Triangle A&E: Director Steve Bebout does a beautiful job at staging some very beautiful moments and overall stage pictures, especially at the end of Act I. Lighting designer Samuel Rushen capitalizes some of these moments with his artistic lighting, casting wonderful dramatic silhouettes specifically in the song "Something to Believe In."

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