Disney's Newsies
at Quince Orchard High School

Reviewed on April 2, 2022

Isa Paley
Wakefield High School
Submitted for publication to Cappies News

Extra, Extra! Read all about it! No exaggerated headline needed here, because Quince Orchard High School's fantastic production of Disney's Newsies was better than front page news.

Based on the 1992 movie of the same name (which itself was loosely based on an actual newsboy strike), the musical has a book by Harvey Fierstein and music by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman. It follows a lively group of Manhattan newsboys as they initiate a strike after the price for their papers is raised. It's a story of fighting corruption, the power of unified groups, and standing up for what you believe in.

Quince Orchard High School demonstrated a clear understanding of the musical's theme of teamwork, as their ensemble was succinct and vibrant, each person integral to the overall story. One standout number was "Seize the Day" in which the newsies began their strike. The cast showed exemplary vocal and dancing skills, balancing both in order to present a powerhouse, show-stopping number. There were harmonies, flips, and pirouettes on top of newspapers, without anyone missing a beat.

The entire group of Manhattan newsies were a dynamic group of performers, but as the team's leader, Jack Kelly, Matthew Rubin stole the show. Rubin had a clear and gorgeous voice, as well as the acting chops to match it. He was a truly believable leader and committed fully to the role, having wonderful chemistry with everyone he interacted with, particularly Katherine (Catherine Brady), his love interest in the show. Also fantastic was Hayden Polsky as Davey, a new newsie who helps Jack organize the strike. Polsky conveyed Davey's anxiety and enthusiasm with ease and made exhilarating choices with his vocal solos.

But every good newsboy needs a supportive adult behind him. As Medda Larkin, Jack's vaudeville singing confidant, Giorgia Dallasta stunned the audience with an incredible rendition of the song "That's Rich." To foil the kindness of Medda, Patrick Barrett was also phenomenal as antagonist Joseph Pulitzer, balancing both his heightened comedy and purely menacing moments. With such a large cast, every role truly mattered. Some other standouts were the energy of Finch (Fiona Bradford), the surprise comedy of Teddy Roosevelt (Chase Pasekoff), and the singing and dancing of the Bowery Beauties (Hayley Asai, Baile Beck, and Danielle Garcia.)

Matching the top-notch performance of the cast, Quince Orchard's tech crew did an outstanding job. Amelia Jabes, Alexa Rosenthal, Solenn Lemiale, Audrey Mitchell did an impeccable job with lighting, changing colors to capture the ever-shifting moods, and managing the difficult job of working follow spots. In conjunction, Davis Kessler, Noah Weber, Solenn Lemiale, and Alison Wang also helped frame the story with their sets, which truly built the New York atmosphere.

The entire cast and crew of Quince Orchard High School's production of Disney's Newsies "seized the day" and gave an incredibly exciting and energetic performance, that may have just convinced a few people to start a strike of their own.

Grace Drost
Chantilly High School
Submitted for publication to Cappies News 2

As if ripped from today's headlines, Quince Orchard's production of Newsies captured the story of underdogs joining together to overcome the adversity of more powerful forces.

The musical Newsies, which recently celebrated its ten-year anniversary, is based on the Newsboy Strike of 1899. The show takes the audience on a journey with the downtrodden Newsboys. When prices of the newspapers they rely on for subsistence suddenly skyrocket, the Newsies are left reeling. Unofficial Newsboy leader, Jack Kelly, steps up to the plate to organize the Newsboy Strike with the help of idealistic reporter Katherine Plumber. The strike is a dangerous choice, but the unity of the Newsboys proves to be a powerful force for change.

Adored by the rest of the Newsies, Jack Kelly (Matthew Rubin), was a cool and cocky presence. Rubin embodied Kelly's infectious spirit with purposeful physicality and youthful fight that radiated from the stage. Throughout the show, Rubin maintained an abundance of energy that was exhibited in his lively dancing, singing, and acting, and maintained an authentic New York accent throughout the evening. Not only was he good on his own, but he beautifully established his relationship with other characters best displayed in the growing chemistry with Katherine Plumber (Catherine Brady). Brady showcased Plumber's drive to be a woman in the news industry with strong determination. Her desperation was electric in her performance of "Watch What Happens" as she navigated through the difficult song with ease. As her character fell in love with the Newsies, Brady made small tweaks to her physical choices and slowly became one of the Newsies. Her tap dance with the other Newsboys during "King of New York" displayed her newfound vivacity.

The Newsboys, including members like Crutchie (Jordan Richard) and Davey Jacobs (Hayden Polsky) were an encouraging display of unity. Their family-like dynamic throughout the entire show was heartwarming and inspiring. They were vibrant while dancing and singing, especially during songs such as "Seize the Day" and "The World Will Know," even keeping up energy outside of the spotlight. The inclusion of moments when the Newsies came into the audience to sing made the show's audience feel like they were a part of the rebellion.

The tech elements highlighted the more intimate moments of such an energetic show. Set designers (Davis Kessler and Noah Weber) made the stage seem as if it was surrounding the audience, by extending set pieces all the way to the left and right of the large theater. The Private Box, where Jack and Katherine meet for the first time, was almost in the audience. Each set piece was simplistic and versatile, capturing the feel of the streets, as well as making the transitions quick. Lighting (Amelia Jabes and Alexa Rosenthal) added more to the story by utilizing bold colors for different scenes, such as pink for romance and red for anger. They also carefully considered how the lighting would look for each time of day, projecting a realistic looking moon onto the side of the theater when it was nighttime.

Quince Orchard High School's production of Newsies reveals the importance and power of unity. The Newsboys of New York teach a prescient and important lesson that no one is too young or too poor to stand up for themselves.

Megan Rudacille
Chantilly High School
Submitted for publication to Patch (Montgomery County)

When the disgruntled youth take a stand against the unjust establishments of older generations, there's a front-page story waiting to happen. This past weekend, Quince Orchard High School embodied the defiant spirit of youthful rebellion in Disney's Newsies.

Adapted from the 1992 movie-musical, the 2012 Broadway musical Disney's Newsies recounts the historic 1899 strike of overworked, underpaid newsboys. The show follows union leader Jack Kelly and his fellow "newsies" as they fight for a fair deal from Joseph Pulitzer's New York World.

Quince Orchard students brought remarkably high energy to the spirited newsies, embodying their boyishness with relaxed, playful physicality. The entire cast demonstrated consistent vocal excellence even while dancing, delivering impeccable harmonies in the show's characteristic Manhattan accents. Furthermore, audiences were truly integrated into the production through its clever utilization of the entire space. Performers entered and exited through the house frequently and unexpectedly, sang inches away from viewers in the aisles, and even handed out strike fliers, fostering a rare oneness with their audience.

Matthew Rubin led the cast, masterfully embodying Jack Kelly's charisma. Often seen leaning nonchalantly against set pieces, Rubin's undeniable swagger was well contrasted with the character's vulnerable, desperate moments, and the actor delivered a notable vocal performance while maintaining the character's New York accent. Opposite Rubin was Catherine Brady as plucky journalist Katherine Plumber. Brady's confidence and poise onstage effectively demonstrated her character's opposition to the meek role for women of the 19th century. Another vocal standout, Brady collaborated nicely on building chemistry with Rubin via their increasing physical intimacy.

Amidst the well-rounded company, some supporting performers stood out. Hayden Polsky endearingly portrayed newsboy newcomer Davey's development from strait-laced to rebellious as he loosened up from early stiff physicality. Smooth vocal runs embellished Polsky's sweetly clear-toned singing. Giorgia Dallasta emanated sass and charm as theater owner Medda Larkin, ruling the stage with dry, witty humor and stunning technique in crooning "That's Rich." Finally, Jordan Richard captured Jack's jovial pal Crutchie, keeping up high physical emotion and energy despite the obstacle of his character's crutch. Richard was consistent in keeping off his "bad leg" while acting and executing choreography, adding realism to his portrayal.

Technical aspects of Quince Orchard's production continued integrating the audience into the show and establishing a distinct environment. A private box used by characters during a scene in Medda's theater was positioned among the audience's actual seats, making unique use of the auditorium to transport viewers to that Bowery theater themselves. Also extended into the audience was a projected moon used to distinguish nighttime scenes, paired with darker-colored lighting that faded into sunrise orange and pink and then morning sky blue in a moment of detailed lighting lead by Amelia Jabes. Set pieces were efficiently maneuvered by the streamlined QO Theatre Crew managed by Alison Wang and Amelia Jabes such that even minimal set dressing made for effective transitions between locations.

As discontent with corporations rises nationwide, young viewers of Disney's Newsies may see themselves in the revolting newsboys, preparing to take down the Joseph Pulitzers and William Randolph Hearsts of the 21st century. Quince Orchard students latched onto this empathy in a production that emphasized, above all else, genuine connection with their audience. From up-close interactions to an endearingly rambunctious ensemble, Quince Orchard left every viewer feeling like a part of the union, the strike, and the movement.

Aafreen Ali
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Submitted for publication to Maryland Theater Guide

Energetic brass music swells as the boys gather to strike for fair wages-- will they accomplish their goal or be struck down by the publishers yet again? Find out in Quince Orchard High School's latest production: "Disney's Newsies"!

"Disney's Newsies" was based on the newsboy strike of 1899 and adapted for the stage by Harvey Fierstein, Alan Menken, and Jack Feldman. The show follows 17-year-old Jack Kelly (Matthew Rubin), a newspaper hawker making a living on the streets of New York City. When big-shot publisher Joseph Pulitzer (Patrick Barrett) raises the price of the paper and jeopardizes the newsboys' livelihood, Jack forms an unlikely alliance with aspiring journalist Katherine Plumber (Catherine Brady) and the rest of the Newsies to strike and end the troubles of the working-class boys.

Leading man Rubin anchored the show as Jack Kelly with a perfect balance of charisma and vulnerability. Employing a pronounced swagger and consistent accent throughout the show, Rubin committed to his character on all fronts. He and Brady had incredible chemistry in their song "Something to Believe In." Brady shone on her own; her spunky energy added to her portrayal of Katherine's fiercely independent spirit. Brady's footwork was also a standout, particularly in the difficult tap number "King of New York."

As Jack's right-hand man, Hayden Polsky as Davey Jacobs cleverly utilized changes in his stance and voice to convey Davey's character arc over the course of the show. His brotherly chemistry with adorably energetic Danny Zheng (Les Jacobs) highlighted their relationship well. Finally, Giorgia Dallasta stole the show as burlesque house performer Medda Larkin. Despite only having a few scenes, Dallasta's comedic timing and captivating stage presence created a sense of glamor fitting for her larger-than-life character.

Quince Orchard's cast was stacked with vocal powerhouses, particularly in Rubin, Brady, Dallasta, and Barrett. These characters' vocal agility reached even the highest notes of Alan Menken's musical score. Also notable was the Newsies ensemble for their consistent characterization throughout vocal and choreography performances, as well as their playful chemistry.

Quince Orchard's technical elements set the stage for the performances upon them, highlighting locations and mood changes throughout the show. An ambitious and immersive set from Davis Kessler, Noah Weber, Solenn Lemiale, and Alison Wang placed set elements like Katherine's private box and the news blackboard in the audience to create defined locations. The set transitions by QO Theatre Crew, underscored by accompaniment from QO Theatre Pit, were smooth and did not detract from the show. Lastly, color changes in lighting from Amelia Jabes, Alexa Rosenthal, Solenn Lemiale, and Audrey Mitchell enhanced the shifts in energy in songs like "Carrying the Banner" and "Something to Believe In."

With bright musical numbers, heart wrenching drama, and enough plucky energy to wipe the smile off Pulitzer's face, Quince Orchard's "Disney's Newsies" reminds viewers of the power of unlikely revolutions in an unforgettable show.

Maya Berry
South Lakes High School
Submitted for publication to The Prowler

The newsboys of New York electrified the Quince Orchard High School theater with their show-stopping, humorous, and witty Disney production of Newsies. Living in the Big Apple in the late 1800s sounds like a dream, doesn't it? Well, the cast and crew of Newsies brought the grave realities and challenges of life as a newsboy during the Newsboy Strike of 1899 to life and fully embraced and displayed the spirit and fervor it took to take a stand against the injustices of New York's two publishing titans.

This classic, timeless musical follows the story of Jack Kelly (Matthew Rubin), a rebellious teen living on the streets of New York. While Jack dreams of a bigger and better life far away from the city in Santa Fe, he's poverty-stricken and barely survives on his meager pay as a newsboy. Jack and his crew of rough-and-tumble "newsies" decide they've had enough and take action against two publishing titans following a rise in newspaper prices. This historical yet lively musical directed by Jess Vogel captivated audience members, unveiling the corruption and greed in the news industry during the turn of the 20th century. Jack Kelly couldn't have said it better himself: "Without newsies, nobody knows nothin'."

Every character in the show was well-played, with distinct character choices that contrasted with the other characters. Danny Zheng's mannerisms and physicality as Les Jacobs were evocative of a cheeky younger brother and pint-sized salesboy. As beloved Davey Jacobs, Hayden Polsky played into his role as the strait-laced, bright big brother and brains of the resistance - a perfect complement to Les. Sung with an endearing smile and charismatic charm, the audience was sold by Polsky's uplifting solo piece in "Seize the Day." Katherine Plumber's struggle to make a name for herself as a legitimate journalist was portrayed excellently by Catherine Brady. Memorable performances included Jordan Richard, who brought the audience to tears with his emotional and perfect-pitch solo as Crutchie in "Letter from the Refuge." Matthew Rubin as Jack Kelly acted at the Broadway-level and maintained an impressive New York accent amidst complex stage combat, choreography, and solo numbers. Patrick Barrett's menacing tone truly complimented his character of high authority, Joseph Pulitzer. Last but not least, Giorgia Dallasta, as Medda Larkin, demonstrated confidence and power in her voice. While dressed to the nines, Dallasta's gorgeous vocals in "That's Rich" perfectly matched her vivacious costumes.

The props in the production, managed by Averie Pascall and Alora Peltzman, captured the "from the ground up attitude" the boys had to live by in this time period. Prop choices were thoughtful, including Crutchie's crutch (cleverly draped in a strike flag mid-production), Katherine's vintage camera, and multiple stacks of authentic-looking newspapers. Furthermore, costumes by Finn Campbell, Priyanka Estoll, and Kangmin Kim fabulously conveyed the rugged style of newsboys at the end of the 19th century and all the intricate character-specific pieces. Furthermore, makeup by Jamie Loehr expressed the tough-guy exterior of the newsboys, in tandem with costuming, adding a fantastic Broadway-level technical element to the show.

Overall, the production wonderfully displayed the power of the young boys who rallied across New York City to strike against the unfair conditions and raise newspaper distribution prices. The ending, packed with the high-energy and grit of the cast, further illuminated Harvey Fierstein's authorial intent and summoned the audience to consider their purpose and relationships in life. Knowing that those around us can help guide us and serve as our mentors on the right path. We, too, can seize the day!