Fine Arts Association opens ‘Newsies’

Spring musical season is well underway at our area high schools, but now some of our local community theaters have young thespians getting into the act as well.

Read on:

Fine Arts Association

The Fine Arts Association in Willoughby is excited to present “Disney’s Newsies” this weekend.

The production opens on March 28 and continues through April 13. Production dates and times are Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. Ticket prices are $19 for children 10 and under, $27 for students ages 11-18 and seniors 60 and older and $29 for adults.

The March 30 performance at 2 p.m. will be a sensory friendly performance designed for individuals who may have challenges with sudden shifts in light or loud sounds. All tickets are $10 for that performance.

“Disney’s Newsies” is rated G with a running time of 2 hours and 30 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission.

Set in turn-of-the century New York City, “Newsies” is the tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” When the titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right.

Based on the 1992 motion picture and inspired by a true story, “Newsies” features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken (“Little Shop of Horrors,” “Sister Act”) and Jack Feldman, and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein (“Kinky Boots”). The production includes the songs “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “Santa Fe”.

“Theatre has always been a huge part of my life,” director Michelle Sohm tells me. “I earned my B.A. in Theater Performance from Kent State University, and over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to be involved in so many wonderful productions—’Newsies’ being one of the most special.

“This show is incredibly special to me, not only because I’ve had the privilege of performing in it myself, but now having the opportunity to direct and choreograph it feels like a dream come true,” he continued. “I love how ‘Newsies’ blends high-energy storytelling with powerful movement, and bringing that to life with this cast has been an incredible experience. It’s a show that speaks to resilience, unity, and the power of standing up for what’s right.

“The music is infectious, the dance is electric, and the story is filled with heart and determination,” he added. “When the opportunity came to direct this production, I knew I had to be part of it. Not only do I love the show itself, but I was excited to work with a cast and crew who would bring their own passion and dedication to the stage.”

Several young thespians are naturally part of the “Newsies” cast.

“From the very beginning, we’ve been focusing on authenticity, connection, and energy,” Sohm says. “‘Newsies’ is more than just a show with great dance numbers and powerful songs—it’s a story about real people, fighting for their future. We’ve been emphasizing the importance of building genuine relationships on stage, making each moment feel truthful, and bringing a level of raw, unstoppable energy to every performance.

“This cast is bursting with talent, and they’ve embraced these ideas beautifully. I can’t wait for audiences to see their hard work and heart shine through.”

Notre Dame Cathedral Latin

Roald Dahl’s “Matilda the Musical” is the 2025 spring production for Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School this year.

Based on the original book “Matilda” by Roald Dahl, this production features a musical book by Dennis Kelly and music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. Shirley Ivancic Stall directs with musical direction by Will Davis.

Performances are March 27 at 6 p.m., March 28 and March 29 at 7 p.m., and March 30 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 and available online and at the door. All shows are at Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School 13000 Auburn Road in Chardon. Call 440-286-6226 for more information.

The cast of characters includes Celia Aldom as Matilda, Alexis Doerr as Miss Trunchbull, Elaine Hammerhofer as Miss Honey, Andrew Fordyce as Mr. Wormwood, and Caroline Butler as Mrs. Wormwood. Eleven other actors complete the cast.

“‘Matilda is a really fun show,” Celia says. “The cast and crew have been working really hard to put on a fun experience for people of all ages. I can 100% guarantee that if you come see the show, you’ll have a good laugh. The characters are full of fun energy and spontaneous jokes that are sure to make you smile.

“The adults running the show have been crucial to this process, and we cannot thank them enough for the support.”

“I wasn’t too excited when ‘Matilda’ got announced as NDCL’s 2025 musical,” Andrew admits. “But that thought has been completely changed since then. ‘Matilda’ is an insanely funny show, it has amazing music, and the cast we have at NDCL really helps it to shine.

“We have put in so much hard work in order to create the best, funniest, and most enjoyable version of this production possible and we are extremely excited to be able to share it with everyone.”

Check out these “Revolting Children” this weekend.

Young Thespians is a column focusing on youth theater. When are your spring productions? Email stevecouch@windstream.net or post them on our “Young Thespians” Facebook group page so we can get you on our calendar!