Sharon students to perform musical "Newsies" this week
Apr. 9—SHARON — Audiences will be transported to turn-of-the-century New York City when the Broadway musical "Newsies" kicks off Thursday evening at Sharon High School.
Set in 1899, the musical — performed by the Sharon Middle/High School Drama Department — tells the story of the newsies, young boys who sold newspapers at a time when children were often treated as property, Director Frank McCauley said. They go on strike when publishers jack up the wholesale cost of the newspapers they peddle on the streets of New York
"It's about these boys standing up for themselves and fighting for their rights," McCauley said.
Compared to previous musicals, Newsies required a more predominantly-male cast due to the majority of characters being male. However, McCauley also needed boys that could sing at higher octaves for the show's 20 or so songs.
This year's crop of students rose to that challenge, including the three leads — senior Anthony Richards playing Jack, senior Gene Metro playing Crutchie, and junior John Stanek playing Davey, McCauley said.
Richards, Metro and Stanek are also expected to advance to states for the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association, he added.
"I have a very talented group of students this year," McCauley said.
The musical will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday in the Sharon High School auditorium. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors, and will be sold at the door. For more information, contact Christa Welch at 724-983-4030 ext. 1203 or christa_welch@sharonsd.org.
Like David L. Dye on Facebook or email him at ddye@sharonherald.com.
