The Pioneer Theatre Guild presents Disney’s ‘Newsies The Musical’ Nov. 7-10 in Pioneer High School’s Schreiber Auditorium (601 W. Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor).
Based on the 1992 motion picture and inspired by a true story, Newsies features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken (Little Shop of Horrors, Sister Act) and Jack Feldman and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein (Kinky Boots). Featuring the now classic songs “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “Santa Fe,” Newsies is packed with non-stop thrills and a timeless message, perfect for the whole family and every audience.
Set in turn-of-the-century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right.
The exhilarating opening notes of “Seize the Day” set the stage for PTG’s vibrant production of NEWSIES. Senior Emmanual Morgan, playing Jack Kelly, describes him as a passionate young man who feels a strong responsibility for his friends. “Jack stands up for those who can’t defend themselves,” Morgan explains. “I relate to that sense of commitment, especially as I navigate my own path out of high school.” He highlights the bond among the newsboys, which underscores the show’s message of unity.
In preparing for the role, Morgan focused on Jack’s desire to escape to Santa Fe, helping him portray the struggles of living in New York with greater depth. He hopes audiences will see the relevance of Jack’s journey today: “We need to advocate for the underprivileged, as those struggles still exist.” His favorite moments include the reprise of “Watch What Happens,” marking Jack’s growth from fear to empowerment. Morgan also values the collaborative spirit brought by the University of Michigan’s student directors, saying, “Their fresh insights deepen our understanding of the show and strengthen our team mentality.”
Ethan Steiner, a junior Theatre Arts major at The University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance and 2022 PTG alum, is directing PTG’s production of NEWSIES. Having played Les in the National Tour of NEWSIES from 2015-2016, he brings invaluable experience to his role as director. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shaped my life in many ways,” Steiner recalls. The rehearsal process was intense, with minimal direction, which taught him the value of collaboration. “I learned a lot from simply observing and participating, and now I can guide the cast based on that knowledge.” Steiner aims to highlight themes of courage, resilience, camaraderie and empowerment in this production. He encourages actors to draw on their own experiences to make their portrayals feel authentic. “I remind them that we’re not in the early 20th century anymore; they should bring their emotional intelligence to their roles to truly connect with audiences.”
Alongside choreographer Burke Brickner, he seeks to balance high-energy dance with storytelling. “Burke has a knack for merging the energy of the lyrics with the choreography while emphasizing the sense of community,” said Steiner.As he modernizes NEWSIES for today’s audiences, Steiner is committed to honoring its original context while creating a strong sense of community among the cast. One of the challenges he faces is coordinating fight scenes safely while keeping them impactful. “I want to ensure an authentic experience for the audience,” he explains. The most rewarding aspect for him is watching the cast learn and grow together. “Seeing everyone thrive and enjoy the process is incredibly fulfilling.” Steiner advises student performers to embrace their individuality in their roles. “No one is boring; everyone has a unique story to tell. Let your experiences shape your character.” Looking ahead, he hopes to continue directing and acting, knowing this experience will enhance his understanding of different perspectives in theater.
In addition to the cast, PTG’s production involves 55 students across various crews, including stage management, set, props, lighting, sound, paint, makeup, and costumes, along with the pit orchestra. Pioneer senior production stage manager, Hadden VanDorn-Greer, has found this diverse group to be instrumental in shaping the production. “Working with such a varied group of students has deepened my understanding of the teamwork involved in theater,” VanDorn-Greer shares. “It really highlights how much fun can be had while bringing a show to life.”
Reflecting on personal growth, VanDorn-Greer explains that being part of PTG has boosted their confidence. “I’ve gained so much pride in the work we do together and made countless friends along the way.” For VanDorn-Greer, being part of this theater community has been transformative. “It’s everything for me; it’s where all my friends are, and it feels like a safe space. The skills I’ve learned here will carry me through life.
The lineup
Director: Ethan Steiner
Choreographer: Burke Brickner
Music Director: Caitlyn Bogart
Pit Conductor: Tyler Driskill
Producers: Jayme Kelmigian & Alex Leydenfrost
Student Producer: Stella Peng
Technical Director/Set Designer: Mysti Plummer
Sound Designer: Patrick Schrock
Lighting Designer: Ian Hyatt
Costume Designer: Hayden Keene
Props Designer: Jennifer Monk-Reising
Makeup Designer: Chloe Park
PTG Program Directors: Jayme Kelmigian, Alex Leydenfrost, & Mysti Plummer
Performance Dates:
- Thursday, November 7th @ 7:00pm
- Friday, November 8th @ 7:00pm
- Saturday, November 9th @ 2:00pm (Matinee)
- Saturday, November 9th @ 7:00pm
- Sunday, November 10th 2:00pm (Matinee)
TICKETS:
$15 Students/65+ Seniors/Pioneer Staff
$20 Adults
$50 Opening Night Gala (Thursday 11/7 only, 5:30pm pre-show event)
Reserved Seating Tickets are available and will be on sale beginning Wednesday, October 16th at 7:00am
*For more information, visit HERE
OPENING NIGHT GALA
Join us at our Opening Night Gala on Thursday, November 7th at 5:30 pm in the Pioneer annex (prior to the opening night performance of NEWSIES)!
Your $50 ticket includes…
- A NEWSIES themed dinner party with “black, white, & read” all over decor
- Dinner before the show
- Decadent desserts
- Sweetwaters Coffee Cart
- Door prizes & party favors
- Silent Auction with fabulous items from more local businesses than we can list (including Detroit Lions tickets!)
- Live Entertainment
- AND…your ticket to the Opening Night performance of PTG’s NEWSIES!
All proceeds from the Gala will benefit PTG students through scholarships and educational opportunities.
