Newsies JR

Newsies JR is a show that is relatively new to me, so I went along with wide eyed curiosity to see The Drama Dept`s production of  it. From the moment we entered the auditorium we were surrounded by cast members acting out selling the newspapers – shouting across to each other it was both inventive and equally chaotic, but exciting . The stage was open with a scaffolding one third height structure, a  New York skyline with bridge was silhouetted in black and the stage was lit blue.

Sound by MSL Lighting was good throughout, no gremlins and the balance between vocals and dialogue was nice and even. Lighting again by MSL Lighting was strong and innovative – it helped express the passion from the Newsies on the stage. Bravo to first time Musical Director Harrison Bramhall Knowles, every single harmony was spot on, the songs all started with  great attack, diction throughout the vocals was good and clear, the cast had confidence and it certainly showed. Carolynne Crowder as Choreographer had a difficult job as the stage space at Hyde Festival Theatre isn`t that big but she certainly brought some new ideas – I particularly enjoyed her symbolic use of one particular move repetitively to show movement of time, it was quite clever. Costumes throughout were very fitting to the characters and the production, personally I do like to see dance boots if it is a musical and dance boots I saw.

Jack played by Jack Lightfoot was a fabulously larger than life character, he showed great confidence and dare I say swagger whenever he appeared onstage. There were some strong, emotional scenes with both Harry O`Conner (Davey) and Luka Francis Mountfort (Crutchie) where they showed a maturity beyond their years in their acting skills. Beth Moran as Katherine was confident and when there was a little blip – not of her doing she didn`t  flinch, she took it completely in her stride,  vocals were strong  but please take care at the very top - it is so easy with extra show adrenaline to come out as a coarse scratchy note instead of the smooth one expected. Brodie Robson as Les was the usual cheeky, cheerful chappie. The ensemble as a whole were visually such a cohesive team, I particularly enjoyed the passing the rolled papers routine – there was such precise movement with purpose.  

Thank you for inviting me, myself and my guest enjoyed your production of Newsies JR and I look forward to seeing you all again very soon.

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