Larger-than-life ragtag band of 'Newsies' packed with talent

In the summer of 1899, a band of New York newsboys led a strike against the editor of the “New York World,” Joseph Pulitzer, to fight for better working conditions. The strike was an unlikely success and revolutionized the way that child laborers across New York City were treated.

The Wichita Theatre presents this remarkable story in Disney's “Newsies the Broadway Musical,” a stage adaptation of the 1992 Disney musical film of the same name. Directed by Chance Harmon, the musical features a huge cast, comprised mostly of amazingly talented kids.

The ragtag band of newsboys is led by the scruffy dreamer Jack Kelly, played by the talented Bryson Petersen. Petersen is truly a triple threat and “Newsies” gives him the chance to show his stuff. His vocals are incredible, especially during the Act I finale “Sante Fe,” and his charisma carries the story and energizes the cast around him.

Teaming up with Jack his the newcomer brothers Davey (Luke Draper) and Les (Korbin Koker). These two may be new to the newsboy scene, but they are more than eager to join in the fight. Draper’s portrayal of the level-headed, feet-on-the-ground Davey makes a great foil to the big dreams and schemes of Jack and Koker’s turn as young Les adds a spark of humor to tense moments.   

Of course, the story of the Newsies wouldn’t get out without the work and support of cub reporter, Katherine (played by Amanda Jackson on opening night, but also played by Ashlen Loskot). Jackson is adept at playing the lead roles, having played Dorothy, Belle, and countless others and is reliably great here as Katherine, making her spunky character easy to root for. Her solo number, “Watch What Happens,” will take your breath away and her duet with Jack, “Something to Believe In,” is a beautiful and quiet number.

Musically directed by Chris Jarvis, the songs of “Newsies” are catchy, larger than life, and sung with gusto by the large ensemble. The ensemble cast of mostly kids works well as a team and succeeds in using the strengths of their individual members. Each cast member works to make their characters unique but also fit with the team as a whole.

The dancing of “Newsies” is often a limiting factor for many productions because of the intense choreography and numerous dancing styles that are incorporated into the show, but at the Wichita Theatre, the cast handsprings, taps and pirouettes across the stage constantly and seemingly effortlessly thanks to the hard work of choreographer Stephanie Medenwald, assisted by Caitlyn Minuto. It’s not often that a show has both amazing singing and great dancing, but “Newsies” doesn’t disappoint on either front. Indeed, whether you’re a fan of musicals or not, the dancing alone is a draw for this production.

As always, the Wichita Theatre strives to create a polished feel for their productions, but “Newsies” really stands out, especially with their use of projections. The graphic design, done by Casey Osborne, makes the story feel immersive and larger than life. His work pairs perfectly with the large set pieces on-stage and sets the Wichita Theatre apart from many of its community theatre peers.

“Newsies” is a great production for newcomers to the story as well as old fans of the classic Christian Bale movie. The energy and enthusiasm of the cast will knock you off your feet and leave you humming the catchy tunes for the rest of the night. Now is the time to seize the day, grab your newsboys cap, and come see “Newsies.”

“Newsies” runs at least through March 2, with performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and matinees at 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Call the box office (940-723-9037) for ticket information.