MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Family Community Theatre is bringing the high-energy musical Newsies to the Flag Theatre for two weekends of performances beginning Thursday.
Directed by Craig Williams, the production tells the story of the real-life 1899 New York City newsboys’ strike, when young newspaper sellers organized against publishing giants Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst over rising paper prices that cut into their already slim earnings.
“This is the first time Newsies has been produced by our organization, and we believe it’s the first time it’s been staged in this part of the state,” Williams said during an interview on the BW Morning Show. “It’s a powerful story about young people finding their voice.”
Williams, who also serves as president of Family Community Theatre, said the show’s demanding choreography and music drew strong interest from local performers. More than 60 people auditioned, with a final cast of 40 selected from eight different communities.
At the center of the story is Jack Kelly, the charismatic newsboy who becomes the leader of the strike. The role is played by Leland Britton, a senior at Sterling High School. Catherine, the show’s female lead, is portrayed by a Wichita college student, while Pulitzer is played by Lee Keil, who shares the stage with his daughter Savannah, a member of the Newsies ensemble.
Producing a large-scale musical like Newsies presents unique challenges in the Flag Theatre’s more intimate space. Williams said creative staging solutions, including the use of scaffolding and multiple levels, helped maximize the 28-foot-wide stage and limited backstage areas.
“Adding music and choreography changes everything,” Williams said. “You need more rehearsal time, more staff, and the right choreographer and music director to make it all work.”
Rehearsals began in early December, with cast members logging nearly 40 rehearsals leading up to opening night. Williams said the process teaches young performers commitment, discipline, and collaboration.
Performances run February 12–15 and February 19–22. Evening shows are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, with 3 p.m. matinees on Sundays.
Tickets are available in advance at Absolute Home, Busy Bee Laundry, or online through the Family Community Theatre website.
Williams said audiences can expect an energetic, uplifting production that blends athletic dance numbers with a message about standing up for fairness and community.
“It’s a show that’s fun to watch,” he said, “but it also reminds us what can happen when people work together for something they believe in.”