Summer Musical 2026:

Get to know Newsies!

Newsies Jr. follows a scrappy group of New York City newsboys in 1899 who hustle every day to earn a living selling newspapers. When publisher Joseph Pulitzer raises the price the newsies must pay for papers, the kids’ already-thin profits disappear. Led by Jack Kelly—and strengthened by the brains and heart of Davey and Katherine Plumber—the newsies organize a strike to demand fair treatment. As the movement grows, the kids face intimidation, setbacks, and pressure to give up, but they learn that when they stand together, their voices can’t be ignored. In the end, their unity forces the powerful adults to negotiate, and the newsies prove they deserve respect, fairness, and a real chance.

Key Characters

Jack Kelly – The confident, big-dreaming leader of the Manhattan newsies. Tough on the outside, loyal on the inside, and determined to build a better life.

Katherine Plumber – A smart, bold young reporter who believes the newsies’ story matters. She helps get the truth into print and challenges the adults in charge.

Crutchie – Jack’s best friend. Optimistic, kind, and funny, with a strong spirit even when things get hard.

Davey Jacobs – New to the newsies world, but quick-thinking and brave. He helps organize the strike with strategy and clear ideas.

Les Jacobs – Davey’s little brother. Energetic, adorable, and often the comic relief—he also shows surprising courage.

Joseph Pulitzer – The powerful newspaper publisher. Focused on profit and reputation, he underestimates the kids—until they unite.

Bunsen – Pulitzer’s assistant. Often played for laughs; helps carry out Pulitzer’s orders.

Hannah – Pulitzer’s housekeeper. She shows compassion and reminds Pulitzer of the human side of the conflict.

Wiesel – The tough foreman who pushes the newsies around and tries to break the strike.

Governor Teddy Roosevelt – A public figure the newsies appeal to; he becomes an important “adult ear” for their cause.

Medda Larkin – A performer who offers the newsies support and a safe place when they need it most.

Spot Conlon – Leader of the Brooklyn newsies. Confident, street-smart, and influential—his support can change everything.

Newsies Ensemble (Race, Specs, Mush, Albert, Finch, Ike, Jo Jo, Tommy Boy, Romeo, etc.) – The heart of the show: a tight-knit crew with big personalities, lots of humor, and strong group loyalty.

Notable Songs

Some of the standout musical numbers include:

“Carrying the Banner” – the newsies’ big introduction; shows their world and energy

“Seize the Day” – the rallying anthem that kicks the strike into gear

“The World Will Know” – the newsies declare their cause and make it public

“Watch What Happens” – Katherine’s featured song about finding her voice as a writer

“King of New York” – celebratory, comedic “we made the headlines!” moment

“Santa Fe” – Jack’s dream song about a better life and freedom

“Letter from the Refuge” – emotional moment for Crutchie (often a standout in Jr.)

“Once and for All” – the big finale-style anthem about unity and standing strong

Production History

• Real-life inspiration (1899): The show is based on the Newsboys Strike of 1899 in New York City, when newsies protested price hikes that cut into their earnings.

• 1992 Disney film: Newsies began as a live-action Disney movie released in 1992 (it later became a cult favorite).

• Stage musical premiere: The stage version premiered at Paper Mill Playhouse in 2011 (New Jersey).

• Broadway run: It moved to Broadway in 2012, where it became known for its athletic choreography and large ensemble numbers.

• Awards/recognition: The Broadway production won Tony Awards, including Best Choreography (a big reason it’s so popular with dance-heavy school programs).

• Youth edition: Newsies Jr. was created as a shorter, school-friendly adaptation of the stage musical, designed for younger performers and flexible casting.

 Fun Facts

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1. It’s based on a real event: The story is inspired by the Newsboys Strike of 1899, when young newspaper sellers protested unfair price hikes.

2. The original was a movie first: Newsies started as a 1992 Disney film before becoming a hit stage musical.

3. Broadway success: The stage musical opened on Broadway in 2012 and became famous for its high-energy dancing and big ensemble numbers.

4. “Seize the Day” is the theme: One of the show’s most recognizable messages is about courage and taking action—perfect for youth casts.

5. Newsies were real working kids: In that era, many newsies were children supporting themselves or helping their families—so the stakes were genuinely high.

6. Youth editions simplify content: Newsies Jr. is adapted to be school-friendly and shorter, while keeping the main story, humor, and heart.

7. A dance-heavy show: This is one of those musicals where the ensemble is the star—strong movement and group scenes are a huge part of what makes it exciting.

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