Review: NEWSIES in Toronto is a Hit Full of Heart

5 out of 5 stars

You can't help but cheer for the loveable Newsies in Disney's Broadway musical based on the real news boy strike of 1899 and the financial flop film they produced on the matter in 1992.

Disney's Newsies is a well written, incredibly designed, choreographed, and acted hit! Audiences are getting all of the great Disney quality music they've come to expect from legendary composer Alan Menken along with a story line that is as timely as ever with university, teacher, and grocery workers strikes appearing almost daily in the headlines.

When Jack Kelly (Dan DeLuca) feels he and his friends, the Newsies of New York, aren't getting a "square" deal from newspaper owner Joseph Pulitzer - he organizes a union for his pals and all the working, abused children in the city. The events that follow lead to a fulfilling ending delivered with infectious singing and dancing - though they must overcome a few obstacles along the way.

Harvey Fierstein (book) had crafted a predictable but enchanting story here - and doesn't disappoint. Jack Feldman's lyrics are a perfect fit when combined with Menken's luscious score - this show already had the making of a hit before it ever went into a rehearsal room.

Mention must be made of Tobin Ost and Sven Ortel, who designed the show. Three moving towers and a few rolling set pieces are transformed using projections into every location from a cellar to the streets of New York - and it works brilliantly. Newsies is far from sparse in terms of scenic elements, but it manages to deliver all of the Disney charm without any of the usual spectacle - which serves the stories realism.

Christopher Gattelli demonstrates his genius as the Newsies choreographer. Not since West Side Story has a choreographer managed to entwine movement so perfectly with the story. Gattelli's choreography moves the story along while being thoroughly entertaining; it's evident why he was given a Tony Award for this show.

The touring cast of Newsies are giving a tour de force performance as an ensemble. They all sing, dance, and act as though they're seasoned pros, despite the average age on stage appearing to be under 20. You'll be amazed by their triple threat skills.

Outstanding performers include DeLuca, Stephanie Styles as Katherine, Jacob Kemp as Davey, Vincent Crocilla as Les, and Zachary Sayle as the endearing cripple, Crutchie.

DeLuca shines as the 17 year old Jack Kelly. His singing voice isn't as lustrous as that of his predecessors in the role - Corey Cott and Jeremy Jordan, but he's a great fit for the part and charm in spades that more than makes up for it.

Styles is immediately likeable as Katherine despite being in a higher class than those around her. She shines in a solo moment during the second act ("Watch What Happens") and during a romantic rooftop duet late with DeLuca. She brings all the heart to this production. Kemp is a real standout, with his acting and singing in a class above the rest.

Toronto audiences will love Newsies, which is playing at The Ed Mirvish Theatre (formerly The Canon) through August 30th. You'll leave the theatre humming one of the show's memorable tunes - be it "Seize The Day," "King of New York", or "Santa Fe." Tickets are available at Mirvish.com.