‘Oh wow’
Students provide 'high-energy' for 'Newsies' production at MHS
MARSHALL — When he learned earlier this year that the theater program at Marshall High School was doing “Newsies,” Nick Dunn wanted to make sure it was true.
And when it was determined to be true, Dunn got ready for the show early.
“All summer, I was practicing jumps and turns,” Dunn said.
The Marshall High School Tiger Theatre is presenting the Disney musical “Newsies” at 7:30 p.m. today-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday and 7:30 p.m. Monday in the Schwan Community Center for the Performing Arts at MHS. The show is being directed by MHS English teacher Dan Smith.
Dan Smith said performance rights for “Newsies” were just released in March.
“I was like ‘oh wow,’ “ he said. Smith applied for the rights in April and it became the show Tiger Theatre was going to perform in the fall.
“And it would be a great experience for everybody, to do something that kids know and love,” Smith said.
“It’s a great family show and great for adults,” Dunn said.
Danny Smith portrays Jack, the leader of the Newsies.
“For me, it’s probably one of the most challenging shows I’ve ever done,” Danny Smith said.
“It’s filled with a bunch of high-energy music and constant energy.”
In the show, Smith said, the Newsies sell papers every day for a living. But then the boss raises the price of papers on them.
Meredith Bock said “Newsies” is one of her favorite shows.
“I just really love the storyline the most of all,” Bock said. Bock said the show is loosely based on the 1899 Newsboys Strike in New York City.
Bock plays Katherine, a female reporter, saying there were not many back then. Along the way, Katherine meets with the Newsies.
Dakota Edens said his role as Joseph Pulitzer was challenging as well.
“I play a completely different role than I’m used to,” he said. He describes his character as an evil CEO.
To prepare for his role, Edens said that he just practiced and picked up some pointers from movies.
“I watch people who have a powerful presence,” Edens said.
Dunn portrays Davey in “Newsies.”
“He’s kind of the new kid in town,” Dunn said of his role. Davey is scared at first, Dunn said, but throughout the show, he finds his confidence and becomes one of the main leaders of the Newsies.
Danny Smith said he “poured his heart and soul” into the show. Bock said “Newsies” had a rigorous rehearsal process, but it was rewarding.
“A lot of 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. kind of days,” Edens said.