What to expect from Newsies the musical

Newsies is the latest historical musical to be sweeping the capital. Based on the 1992 film starring Christian Bale, it tells the story of Jack Kelly and his ragtag band of newsboys, who rise up against the exploitation of wealthy tycoon Joseph Pulitzer when he raises the price of his newspaper bundles. Along the way, Jack falls for young reporter Katherine Plumber.

Playing until April 2023 at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre the Newsies musical has been met with enthusiasm by critics and audiences alike. Here’s everything you need to know about the smash hit.

What’s the story?

Based on the 1899 newsboys’ strikes, Newsies is set in New York City at the turn of the 20th century. It follows a brigade of struggling newsies as they decide to protest the increased prices of the newspaper bundles sold to them by Joseph Pulitzer. Led by Jack Kelly, they fight for better conditions - and, of course, there is love and betrayal along the way.

What should you expect?

Newsies is a musical like no other you’ll find on the West End. Hosted by the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre, it is performed in a thrust with the audience sitting on three sides of the stage. As such, it immerses you in the world of the Newsies from the opening phrases of the first number. The cast dash along the aisles, swing from the light fittings and more in this highly energetic production.

As well as songs written by award winning composer Alan Menken, who has enjoyed a long and illustrious career with Disney, you’ll be treated to dynamic choreography and a wide variety of dance forms, from ballet and tap to jazz and break dancing. In addition, there are some gravity-defying stunts that will leave you simply awed.

Who is in it?

The cast is led by Michael Ahomka-Lindsay, who plays an expressive and energetic Jack Kelly. A graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, he gives a strong vocal performance, bringing depth to the character. Opposite him, as Katherine Plumber, is Bronté Barbé, who has appeared as Carole King in Beautiful and as Mary Western in What’s New Pussycat?

Has Newsies been a hit elsewhere?

The Newsies Broadway musical first opened in 2012 - so it’s taken some time to get to the UK. Initially slated to play 100 performances, it went on to play over 1,000 before touring the US and winning two of the prestigious Tony Awards.

Is it the same as the film, Newsies?

The Newsies musical follows the same basic plot as the film, so fans of the movie won’t be disappointed. There are some new songs added, however, as well as a couple that have been replaced. The biggest change is that the characters of Sarah Jacobs, Jack’s love interest in the film, and reporter Bryan Denton have been amalgamated into the one character of Katherine Plumber.

Newsies is playing until 16 April 2023 and runs for 2.5 hours with an interval. Book your tickets today.