Read all about it! Buxton Opera House Summer School’s ‘Newsies’ is sensational

This year’s Buxton Opera House Creates production is ‘Newsies Jr’, a musical based on the 1992 Disney film and a streamlined version of the 2012 Broadway show. These were inspired by the 1899 Newsboys’ Strike in New York.

The summer school is designed to shine a light on theatre for young people aged 8-18, giving them valuable opportunities to act on stage or else work behind the scenes under the guidance of professional creatives.  In only ten days from casting to curtain up, an uplifting and entertaining show has been produced.

This David and Goliath story focuses on the charismatic leader of the Manhattan newsboys, Jack Kelly. When the money –grabbing press barons, epitomised by Joseph Pulitzer, raise the price of the newspapers the boys purchase to sell to the public, Jack forms a union of Newsies to fight back. The musical explores the exploitation and injustice faced by young underprivileged boys. This engaging plot has the audience rooting for them.

Headlining as Jack was Phoebe Cooper, a memorable Donkey in ‘Shrek’ (2024). A lovely singer and stylish dancer, she commanded the stage, rallying her rag tag troops to strike.  In the role of journalist Katherine, a loyal supporter of the newsboys, Katie Fairs was outstanding: feisty, expressive and humorous. And what a voice! Katherine had the courage to defy her powerful father, Joseph Pulitzer (Archie Hambleton in brash and bullying mode.)

Another champion of the Newsies’ cause was glamorous vaudeville star Medda Larkin. Abigail Pottinger, who shone as King Julien in last year’s production of ‘Madagascar’, stopped the show with her fabulous song and dance routine ‘Just a Pretty Face’.

As Jack’s close friend Crutchie, Grace Bellamore was excellent, delivering a touching rendition of ‘Letter from the Refuge’. Noah Bellamore played Davy, who became Jack’s right hand man. He conveyed Davy’s growth in confidence as he joined the struggle;  I enjoyed the calm power of his singing in ‘Seize the Day.’ I also liked his lively little sidekick Les (Maisy Hill).

It was obvious that every performer had absorbed the musical’s message about solidarity. This felt like a fine team effort; everyone gave 100%. The cast had obviously been given superb direction by Niamh Forster and Eleanor Hibbert.

The show contains rousing songs and the 32 cast members delivered them with power and pizzazz under the enthusiastic guidance of Musical Director Tom Newall. Equally impressive were the movement and dancing. The dynamic routines (including somersaults) were a credit to Choreographers Kerry Allsop and Niamh Forster.

Lead Designer Vicki Louise Smith’s stage set consisted of scaffolding, creating a harsh urban feel.  Dramatic lighting enhanced key moments. The ragamuffin costumes and flat caps conveyed the poverty of the Newsies; these contrasted with Katherine’s smart skirt and blouse, Medda’s frills and feathers and Pulitzer’s maroon suit and top hat.

This show was slick, moving at a cracking pace with scene changes managed smoothly. Technical Stage Manager and Lead Technician Meg Ryder deserves an accolade.  The whole team of young technical and design apprentices warrant high praise for their professionalism.

This was a show full of spirit and heart. The audience responded with loud applause and exuberant cheers.  As I left the Pavilion Arts Centre, I marvelled that this show had come together in under a fortnight.  I also felt heartened that the young performers were getting the message that coming together and fighting for what is right can change the world.