The Granville High School theater department is taking audiences back in time, about 127 years to be exact, and to the streets of New York City for the musical “Newsies”.
The play, written by Harvey Fierstein, is certainly one that many theater critics have come across, but these local high schoolers are already bringing the heartfelt script to a whole new life.
Based on the true story of the newsboys’ strike of 1899 in New York City, “Newsies” follows Jack Kelly and a group of teenage newspaper sellers who organize to fight unfair working conditions imposed by powerful publishers.
In 1899, newsboys were integral for the early distribution of newspapers. They bought papers from publishers at a discounted rate and sold them on the street. The rub, both historically and in the show, came when publishers raised their prices which negated a newsboy’s ability to turn a profit.
This musical will have 44 actors in total, some even taking on multiple parts. Director Sara Rodocker, the drama teacher at GHS, describes this as an interesting level of complexity to production.
“We have a lot of characters who play some parts, but then they’re also going to double as newsies,” Rodocker said.”It’s a great challenge for actors and something we needed to do.”
In addition to the drama club and choirs that typically compose the cast and crew, the school’s production also taps into the music department.
Junior Emma Wohlford, a member of the pit, plays the clarinet in the upcoming production of “Newsies”. She notes the importance of instruments and vocals working together to create a musical.
“Instruments give off a certain sound and emotion that vocalists can’t necessarily induce,” said Wohlford. “When you have the opportunity to combine talented vocalists and instrumental elements together, it can sound wonderful.”
“Newsies” would not be possible without the hard working students on stage, but also the people behind the scenes. Members in crew are the foundation of any production, even without the spotlight.
Junior Chyler Katona, lights crew head for “Newsies,” explains the importance of the crew.
“The actors are what makes the show live for the audience, but the technicians are what make it all possible,” Katona said. “The set and costumes and props influence the mood of a performance. The lights further enhance this experience by showing how a scene should be viewed.”
Beyond the dazzling numbers and spectacular staging, “Newsies” resonates with its powerful message of unity and courage. The struggles and triumphs of these young protagonists will remind you of the importance of fighting for what you believe in, and the impact of standing together for a common cause. It’s a story that transcends time and will leave theater goers inspired long after the final curtain call.
“Newsies” will be coming GHS on May 1-2.
