Benefit Concert Scheduled To Support Coleytown Middle School Theatre

News release from Coleytown Company:

WESTPORT, CT — Coleytown Company proudly announces "Carrying the Banner: A Broadway Concert for Coleytown Company," featuring four original cast members from Disney’s Newsies with a live professional band. This exciting fundraiser will be held on Monday, February 2, 2025 at 7:00 PM at Coleytown Middle School.

This evening is produced by Tony-nominated Broadway producer and Coleytown Company’s own director, Ben Frimmer (John Proctor…, The Hunger Games), in partnership with acclaimed Broadway music director Mat Eisenstein (Frozen, Some Like It Hot, Newsies). Together, Frimmer and Eisenstein are bringing authentic Broadway talent and energy to Westport for a unique concert experience.

*Proceeds from this event will directly support Coleytown Company’s programming, resources, and March 2025 student production of Newsies.*

This concert is designed as a professional Broadway event that complements — and builds excitement for — the students’ upcoming show.

A Clear Distinction: Professional Broadway Concert vs. Student Production

Featuring Four Stars from Broadway’s Newsies

Andrew Keenan-Bolger
Andrew Keenan-Bolger originated the beloved role of Crutchie in the Original Broadway Cast of Newsies. A versatile performer, filmmaker, and author, his Broadway credits include Mary Poppins, Seussical, Beauty and the Beast, and Tuck Everlasting. Beyond the stage, he co-created the hit web series Submissions Only and has directed several acclaimed short films. His creativity and warmth shine in every role, making him a fan favorite among Newsies audiences.

Adam Kaplan (Westport Native)
A proud Westport alumnus, Adam Kaplan made a remarkable early career leap to Broadway, where he starred in A Bronx Tale and the national tour of Kinky Boots. He also performed in Show Boat with the New York Philharmonic. In Newsies, Kaplan played the lead role of Jack Kelly and performed in the ensemble. Westport audiences will have a chance to welcome home one of their own for this special event.

Ben Fankhauser
Ben Fankhauser originated the role of Davey in the Broadway production of Newsies, earning acclaim for his powerful voice and emotional clarity. His career includes regional theatre, national tours, and creative work as a composer and writer for Off-Broadway projects. Fankhauser remains a beloved figure among Newsies fans and brings exceptional musicality to every performance.

Liana Hunt
Liana Hunt starred as Katherine Plumber on Broadway, taking over the role in 2014. She made her Broadway debut as Sophie in Mamma Mia! and has performed in national tours of Wicked, Bright Star, and numerous regional productions including Meet Me in St. Louis, Private Lives, and Les Misérables. Most recently, she returned to Broadway in Back to the Future: The Musical. Hunt’s dynamic stage presence and vocal finesse make her an ideal addition to this concert.

About the Concert
Carrying the Banner brings together these four acclaimed Broadway performers with a professional pit band for an electric evening of music from Newsies and other Broadway shows — all produced under the artistic leadership of Ben Frimmer and Mat Eisenstein.

The event promises high-energy vocals, dynamic arrangements, and behind-the-scenes stories that only original cast members can provide.

Why This Fundraiser Matters
As Coleytown Company approaches its March 2025 student production of Newsies, this fundraiser is a pivotal opportunity to ensure the organization’s continued artistic and financial strength. Funding from this concert will support:
● student costumes, sets lighting, sound, technical needs artist workshops and education future programming and productions

Event Details
Carrying the Banner: A Broadway Benefit for Coleytown Company
Coleytown Middle School, Westport, CT
Monday, February 2, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Snow Date: Monday, February 9
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE NOW: https://cc.ludus.com

About Coleytown Company
Coleytown Company is the theatre program of Coleytown Middle School, dedicated to fostering creativity, collaboration, confidence, and community through the performing arts. Hundreds of students participate each year, developing skills both onstage and behind the scenes in a nurturing and dynamic environment.