Newsies at the National Theatre: June 9 – 21, 2015

by Micaela Williamson

"Since the film’s 1992 theatrical release and subsequent DVD release, NEWSIES has grown into a cult phenomenon, and for years had been the single most requested title of all the Disney musical films not yet adapted for the stage" (Official Press release.)  I have been a fan of show since the film (hint: young Christian Bale and awesome music.)  When I found out this Tony® Award-winning smash hit musical will play an exclusive two-week engagement at National Theatre, I was excited to see NEWSIES coming to  my hometown!

Inspired by the real-life "Newsboy Strike of 1899," which began when newspaper publishers raised the price for newsies, the musical tells the fictional story of Jack Kelley, a charming newsboy leading the strike against Pulitzer, Hearst, and other powerful newspaper publishers.  Besides great original songs from the movie, including "King of New York," "Carrying the Banner," "Seize the Day," and "Sante Fe," the stage production introduces seven new songs created by the original and iconic Menken and Felden musical team.

Here are 5 Fun Facts about NEWSIES to get you excited for the show:

1. Newsies is based on the book Children of the City by David Nasaw.
2. The Broadway production was originally scheduled for limited 12-week run of 105 performances, however, due to popular demand, Newsies went on to run for 1,005 performances or two and half years.
3. 42 sheets of paper are danced on or torn during the riot sequence ("Seize the Day") each night. These single-use sheets are either recycled or given to audience members during the performance. 
4.  The Newsies’ newsboys each have two pairs of identical shoes—one for the majority of the performance, and a pair for the "King of New York" with taps attached. 
5. The set, designed by Tobin Ost, rises over 24 feet high and features three completely automated towers. Built of steel and aluminum, it weighs over seven and a half tons and reconfigures to create the show's many locations.
   
   

Tickets to NEWSIES are now available at the National Theatre box office, online at thenationaldc.com, or by calling (800) 514-3849. A day-of-performance lottery for a limited number of best available seats at $25 each – cash only – will be held at the theater two hours before each performance.

INSIDER HINT: Look for a giveaway for a pair of tickets to see NEWSIES on our Facebook page later this week!



Disclosure: I was given a pair of tickets to opening night of Newsies for sharing this information. No other compensation was received. All opinions are my own.