Broadway Method Academy's NEWSIES
"made the headlines" at Westport Country Playhouse!
Music by Alan Menken/ Lyrics by Jack Feldman/ Composed by Harvey Fierstein
Broadway Method Academy, founded by Connor Deane and J. Scott Handley, is an established musical theatre educational program that expertly trains students in the arts of singing, acting, dancing and all aspects of theater. BMA prides itself on connecting their students with Broadway professionals and experienced artists of today.
Recently, I had the honor of attending Newsies, at Westport Country Playhouse, produced by BMA, WCP’s Resident Conservatory. The show was already one of my favorite musicals, and BMA exceeded all of my expectations. BMA showcased superb and energetic dancing, fantastic acting, appropriate costumes, a marvelous set, and a wonderful lighting job. Under the direction of director and choreographer Chaz Wolcott, a performer in the first National Tour of Newsies, the performers were intentional, overflowing with exuberance, and precise with every dance move.
Newsies, with music by Alan Menken, is adapted from the 1992 original Disney film of the same title and based on the real-life newsboys strike of 1899. Jack Kelly, played by Joey Barreiro, leads the Newsies in their self-proclaimed union to strike in order for Pulitzer and Hearst to lower to price of papers. As they entice all surrounding cities to be a part of the strike, we see the passion the newsies have to fight for their rights. Along the way to victory, Jack Kelly crosses paths with a beautiful and witty reporter, Katherine Plumber, played by Aliana Mills.
Joey Barrerio, who was a performer in the National Tour of Newsies, showcased a powerful and unstoppable voice. He led the cast with vitality throughout the entire performance. One of his showstopping moments was when he was standing unaccompanied while he sang “Sante Fe,” hitting all of the difficult notes flawlessly. Alaina Mills, playing Katherine, was snarky and confident. Katherine is determined to make a name for herself as a woman reporter no matter what the stakes are. Both Barrerio and Mills portrayed their characters as people who are passionate and determined to go after what they desire. These two actors worked wonderfully with each other, letting their tension evolve into a relationship we all want to root for.
In addition to the talented leading actors, the ensemble was truly impeccable. They impressed with their synchronization during dances, never letter their energy drop for a beat. The choreography by Chaz Wolcott was comparable to the Broadway production of Newsies, never becoming repetitive or dull no matter how many dance breakouts there were. From the energy exuding out of the dancers to their facial expressions, it was clear they were committed to telling the story and engaging audience members.
Music direction was by J. Scott Handley, scenic design was by Ryan M. Howell, lighting design was by Weston G. Wetzel, costume design by Dustin Cross, and sound design was by Daniel Bria, wig design was by Katie Adams.
BMA’s production of Newsies leaves me impatiently waiting for their next production, which I know will be as spectacular and mesmerizing as their past productions.
For info on future events and classes, please visit https://broadwaymethodacademy.org/
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