Extra! Extra! Disney’s NEWSIES, the award-winning Broadway musical with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman and book by Harvey Fierstein, to have UK premiere in a new reimagined production ‘in the round’ performed at London’s Troubadour. The show will run from 28 November 2022 for strictly limited season.

Based on a true story, Newsies is set in New-York City at the turn of the 19th century. It’s the rousing tale of a ragged band of teenage newspaper sellers, who dream of a better life far from the hardship of the streets. After newspaper magnate Joseph Pulitzer hikes up the prices for his papers charged to the newsies, Jack Kelly rallies his fellow newsboys in an attempt to protest the change, falling in love with young reporter Katherine along the way. These young newsies from across the city come together and rise up against the exploitation of wealthy publishing tycoons and fight for justice using the only power they have – solidarity.

Newsies originally opened on Broadway in 2012 after a popular run at Papermill Playhouse. On Broadway, the show was slated to play 100 performances but then went on to play over 1000 performances before embarking on a US Tour. Newsies won two Tony Awards including Best Original Score. In 2017, the original production was filmed live on stage and released in cinémas.

Now for the very first time, audiences in the UK have a chance to enjoy the thrill of one of the biggest Broadway hits of recent years. In an innovative and brand new immersive production ‘in the round’ at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre, theatregoers will be thrust right inside the action as the ‘newsies’ dance, sing, jump and fly around the streets of a booming 19th century New York City.

Newsies will be Directed and Choreographed by Olivier nominee Matt Cole, with Set Design by Morgan Large, Musical Supervision, Dance Arrangements & Musical Direction by Nigel Lilley, Costumes by Natalie Pryce, Lighting by Mark Henderson, Sound by Tony Gayle, Performer Flying by John Maddox for Suspended Illusions Ltd, Casting by Lucy Casson, Children’s Casting by Jo Hawes, Fight Directors Rachel Bown-Williams & Ruth Cooper-Brown for RC Annie, Associate Choreographer Jane McMurtrie, Associate Musical Director Chris Ma and Production Management by Lee Batty and Andy Fox for Setting Line.

Alan Menken said:

“I am OVER THE MOON about Newsies opening in London!! I’ve been wishing and waiting for this for soooo long. I truly cannot wait!”

Casting is yet to be announced but you can now read our exlusive interviews with Newsies’ very own Davey and Race: Ben Fankhauser and Ryan Breslin! Head over to our latest issue to read all about it!