Theatre Review: DISNEY’S NEWSIES at Stages St. Louis

Stages St. Louis’ production of Disney’s Newsies recounts a stylized version of the real-life newsboys’ strike of 1899. Through breathtaking dancing and vocals, the cast delivers a performance that captivates its audience with emotion and exceptional artistry.

When Joseph Putlizer (delightfully portrayed by Christopher Gurr as the polished antagonist) decides to increase profits by charging the youth selling papers to the public an extra ten cents per hundred papers, the newsies decide to strike for better working conditions. Told through powerful dance numbers and moving lyrics, Disney’s Newsies is a bright, entertaining musical with all the talent and heart.

As strike leader Jack Kelly, Daniel Marconi is charismatic and engaging, especially in the poignant Sante Fe. His friendship with Davey (a dynamic Richard Spitaletta) leads to a united newsie front, with Davey’s rallying spirit during “Seize the Day” inspiring the group to stand together. Love interest and progressive journalist Katherine (played with grit and gumption by Taylor Quick) helps to unite the city’s youth in a Goliath vs. David battle for their rights. Young Davin Wade hilariously brings the role of Davey’s brother Les to stage with a precocious spirit.

The heart of the production is in the ensemble’s musical numbers with impressive choreography and vocal harmonies. These talents are showcased particularly in the showstopping “The World Will Know” and “Seize the Day.” The latter of which received an impressive and long ovation during the production’s press opening. Various members of the cast stand out throughout the acts, each adding humor and inflection to the show, especially during scenes such as Crutchie’s (Matthew Cox) endearing and heartbreaking “Letter from the Refuge” and the newsies’ rousing, celebrating “King of New York.”

Stages’ production includes one marked change from Broadway showings of Disney’s Newsies by including women in newsie roles, adding a fresh and dynamic layer to the narrative. Newsgirls were also prominent in selling papers and the strike in 1899, and this change in this production highlights the universal struggle all genders have against exploitation and fighting for equality. This notion is elegantly displayed in the musical’s “Once and For All.”

With its enthusiastic musical numbers and compelling characters, Disney’s Newsies not only entertains but also inspires audiences to recognize and challenge societal injustices, making it a stirring and impactful theater experience.

Disney’s Newsies play through August 25^th at The Ross Family Theatre Kirkwood Performing Arts Center.

Photos: Phillip Hamer