Stop the presses! The talented students of Spry Middle School are taking to the streets, and the stage, for their upcoming production of the hit musical Disney Newsies JR.
Inspired by the newsies’ strike of 1899, Disney Newsies JR. is a 60-minute adaptation of the 2012 Broadway favorite, based on the 1992 Newsies film. The musical follows a ragtag group of New York City newboys who rally to fight the price hikes of paper moguls William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer. Led by the determined Jack Kelly, and championed by the pen of budding newspaper reporter Katherine Plumber, the newsies unite across the city to stand their ground.
Spry’s production boasts a 50-member cast and 30+ member stage crew. Mentored by artistic director Bill Ambler, vocal/music director Stephen Costanza, and choreographer Jackie Collins, the local newsies have been “carrying the banner” through rehearsals, perfecting their two-steps and their Brooklyn accents.
Producer Tricia Mungo says, “Students really connect to the Newsies storyline because it speaks to the fact that you can make a difference and have an impact on your community no matter how young you are. This is so empowering.”
“Everyone loves a story that allows the underdog to come out on top,” she added.
Mungo said that Newsies’ music and high energy dancing has allowed the cast to have a great time, and they look forward to the audience having a great time as well!
Newsies will be presented at Spry Middle School, 119 South Ave. on Friday, March 20 at 7 p.m., and Saturday March 21 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $9 each and are available online here. They’ll also be available at the door. All tickets are reserve seating.
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(posted 3/17/2026)
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