Newark, Il. - Newark Community High School is "seizing the day" by joining students, staff, and alumni to produce Disney's Newsies, based on Disney's Broadway show based on the Disney film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White and originally produced on Broadway by Disney Theatrical Productions. This action-packed show features Newark High School students as newsies along with faculty, staff, and alumni in adult roles.

Although there have been small roles for teachers and administrators in previous shows, this is the first one that actively recruited adults affiliated with Newark High School to play all of the grown ups.

"We decided early on to include everyone," director Elizabeth Wheeler said. "Theater energizes and inspires. And watching current and former students perform with our adult actors has been a hoot!" But Wheeler is quiet about the adult casting. "Let's just say that our audience is in for some surprises."

In addition to the casting, the circulation of a "wish list" resulted in community donations including an infrared camera, coaxial cable, and more. Volunteers improved the performing space by repairing fixtures, installing Unistrut, and organizing spaces and materials in preparation for the play. Everyone has chipped in to make the first musical on the stage since 2019 a huge success.

Musical director, Christy Hager, and accompanist, Nicole Talley, will lead the pit, featuring seniors Alexis Dixon and Sophia Anderson in their final show. Dawn Schultz, stage manager, costumer, and dance/combat choreographer, has prepared crew and cast alike. Senior Ashley Harris is a featured dancer with multiple roles in the production. Last seen on stage in Tarzan, Grandon Mitchell steps into his final role on the Newark stage as the leader of the strike, Jack Kelly. He said, "It's scary and a little sad, but overall I'm super excited to perform again."

For any students who hesitate to perform on stage, senior Serena Shriber has these words of encouragement: "If you ever want to be a part of a show, do it. Because when I was a freshman I was scared, but I've grown so much more confident." Serena plays Elmer, one of the brave newsies standing up against Pulitzer.

Don't miss out on this upbeat, action-packed show!

Mark your calendar for April 7, 8, or 9 at 6pm to attend Newsies at Newark Community High School, 413 Chicago Road, Newark, IL. Tickets will be available at the door for $5.