Baldwin High School performs ‘Newsies’

The Baldwin High School ‘Playhouse’ recently performed the critically acclaimed Broadway musical “Newsies.”

The popular and engaging play is based on the real-life newsboys strike of 1899 in New York City, a protest of unfair working conditions and low wages. The story follows the character of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy who becomes the leader of the strike, played by high school student Cornelius Johnson. Along the way, he meets Katherine Plumber, a young reporter who helps publicize the newsies’ story, who was performed by Christina Tephly. 

The high school thespians and stage crew began working on the production in the beginning of September, under the direction of Tricia Wilder. Students in the play included those who are currently a part of the Fine and Performing Arts Academy. 

“It was an absolute pleasure for me to work with not only a talented group of students but such a kind group of students,” Wilder, who is also a teacher at Plaza Elementary School, said. “From the way they treated one another through the entire process to the way they welcomed the Middle School students to the show filled my heart with pride. There is so much magic in each individual performer, and I consider myself blessed to get to use my wand to put their magic together into an unforgettable performance.” 

The popular musical features an energetic and catchy score originally written by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman performed by a large ensemble encompassing ‘newsies,’ newspaper publishers, and other supporting roles. To capture the high-energy dance numbers, an elaborate set was designed with multiple stairwells and a second stage in front of the orchestra pit to fully immerse the audience in the show.

“Baldwin High School’s musical productions are labors of excellence,” André Poprilo, the director of fine and performing arts for the Baldwin School District, said. “I am proud of the quality of production value and talent, but as an educator I’m thrilled that each of the 100 plus students that participated learned how their contribution, cooperation and participation was an essential element to the success of the production. This lesson is transferable to everything they will encounter in life.”

Baldwin High School hosted four showings of “Newsies” in November. Overall, the fun and inspiring musical provided another unforgettable experience for the high school students and audience members alike.