Directed and choreograped by Becca Miinch, with the always creative flare of Artistic Director – Chris Rabideau, it was a wonderful opportunity to see the emerging talents of so many students across Windsor-Essex County come together for Arts Collective Theatre's (ACT) Youth Creative production of Newsies Jr. at the Capitol Theatre.
Set in the hustle bustle of New York City, this musical adaptation features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman, and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein.
Newsies Jr. tells the story of Jack Kelly, a rebellious soul on the outside, but a soft-hearted dreamer on the inside, who sells newspapers on the streets of New York with his friends to make a mere living. After yet another price increase from the bosses, Jack has had enough and rallies all the newsies to ban together and stand strong. Unexpected revelations happen along the way, as they prepare for the fight of their lives.
Highlights:
👉Malia Afonso’s role as Katherine was unforgettable. Her sheer presence lights up a room, or in this case, an entire theatre. Her solo of “Watch What Happens” was so emotionally compelling. When you think of star quality, she’s it.
👉Evangeline Scott as Crutchie was at the heart of Newsies and portrays the character with dignity, showing resilience and adding a little wise-cracking humour.
👉If you haven’t smiled in a while, when Reya Porter steps on stage, that will absolutely put the biggest one on your face, playing Les - a “pint-size” charming Newsie.
👉The ensemble cast for “Seize The Day” was amazing especially with the added toe-tapping sequence.
👉Another great moment was the fight scene, coordinated by Tiffany Chan and assistant Peter Corio.
👉Newsie, Jack Kelly played by Rowan Alice took the reigns of really showing his character come to life and pulling off a pretty convincing New Yorker accent.
👉A perfect array of costumes for the cast really set the mood to reflect the time period and social classes, along with the icon Newsies caps, all envisioned from Costume Manager - Moya McAlister and Costume Designer – Valentine Yaghoubzadeh
This inspiring production of Newsies Jr. reminds us of the power of change and reflects on some of today's social disparities. Watching these diverse young generational performers are a beacon of hope for a brighter future. When we stand together in unity, we create a ripple effect and ACT ensures in every performance this message is loud and clear.
💜Get your tickets for this weekend only! Newsies Jr.
GREAT REVIEW FOR A GREAT PIECE OF WORK.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much.
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