The Middle School Musical: Newsies JR. will close the 2024-25 PolyARTS theater season with Tony Award-winning music by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman, high-energy dance numbers, and an important message to stand up for what’s right. The energy and heart of the hit Broadway musical comes to life through Dyker Heights’ younger performers in a dynamic adaptation.

Inspired by the real-life newsboys strike of 1899, this spirited production follows Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy who rallies his fellow “newsies” to stand up against the powerful newspaper publishers exploiting their labor. As Jack and the newsies band together to fight for justice, they discover the strength and power of unity. Based on the 1992 Disney film with a book by Tony award-winner Harvey Fierstein, Newsies JR. is full of passion, grit, and heart–a rousing celebration of youth, resilience, and the courage to make a difference.

Hear from the Cast of Newsies Jr.

Leonardo C. ‘31 enjoys the artistic range of the musical–the process of singing, acting, and embodying a character with admirable attributes. “I enjoy acting out my role because my character, Spot Conlon, is the leader of the Brooklyn Newsies,” he says. “I also like that I get to sing in a lot of songs–I even have a solo in one of them! I will definitely remember how hard I worked in rehearsal when I look back on the musical. For anyone who wants to try out for Poly theater next year, my advice is to just be you. That’s what got me my role, and that’s what will get you the role that you want.”

“My favorite thing about my role is how much Medda matches my personality,” Amina D. ’30 says. “[Medda] is sassy, outgoing, and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. I also really enjoy hanging out with my cast members. I’ve made so many new friendships over the three shows I’ve done, and they all feel like family to me. Sometimes, I’ll even show up to rehearsal when I’m not needed just to watch and hang out with everyone. I love everything about [the process of putting together a show] and I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Alex A. ‘29 reflects on his excitement to participate in his final Middle School theater production. “In the show, I play Crutchie, whose real name is Charlie; he walks with a crutch due to his bad leg. Crutchie is Jack’s best friend and is a funny character who always has a smile on his face. He doesn’t let the fact that he is disabled hold him back from being the best he can be. I relate to the role of Crutchie a lot because, like me, he loves and looks out for others because not only are they his friends, they’re also family. I am so excited to do Newsies for my last show of Middle School with all my friends. If you are thinking of doing shows in the future, don’t be afraid, try your best, and have fun.”

Drew B. ‘29 who plays Jack Kelly describes his role as fun, interesting, and challenging: “Jack is a natural leader and can come across as tough and confident, but he is also a dreamer, especially as he longs for a better life. This balance is at times hard to achieve, but it is so fun and interesting to pick apart. The relationships that Jack has onstage have led me to such great friendships offstage–friendships that I will carry with me years after closing night. For any students hoping to audition for Middle School theater at Poly next year, I think you should absolutely audition and don’t feel nervous. I remember walking into my first audition at Poly in sixth grade and being so scared, but immediately after, I felt at home and comfortable because of its welcoming environment. It is truly such a fun place.”

Joshua L. ‘29, who plays the role of Snyder, advises his peers to audition for future Middle School productions because it is a joyful learning experience: “My role in Newsies JR. is Snyder, the cruel warden. What I enjoy about acting out my role is that I’m playing an opposite perspective of who I am. Although I have a bigger appearance, I am kind and funny to those around me. Since this is my last show, I’m sad that I won’t be in any more Middle School shows. I remember the jokes my friends and I had backstage, the 9-5 rehearsals, and having a good time with our director. I always encourage anyone to try out for the musical because it’s super fun, it’s a learning experience, and it helps you get out of your comfort zone.”

Reserve Your Tickets!

Families are asked to register to attend our Middle School Musical, Newsies Jr. , on Friday, May 16 at 7:00 PM and Saturday, May 17 at 2:00 PM in the Poly Arts Center’s Richard Perry Theatre.

Tickets: $5 for students/children over 5 and $10 for adults.