Cappies Review: Quince Orchard High School Presents Disney's 'Newsies'

by Megan Rudacille of Chantilly High School

When the disgruntled youth take a stand against the unjust establishments of older generations, there's a front-page story waiting to happen. This past weekend, Quince Orchard High School embodied the defiant spirit of youthful rebellion in Disney's Newsies.

Adapted from the 1992 movie-musical, the 2012 Broadway musical Disney's Newsies recounts the historic 1899 strike of overworked, underpaid newsboys. The show follows union leader Jack Kelly and his fellow "newsies" as they fight for a fair deal from Joseph Pulitzer's New York World.

Quince Orchard students brought remarkably high energy to the spirited newsies, embodying their boyishness with relaxed, playful physicality. The entire cast demonstrated consistent vocal excellence even while dancing, delivering impeccable harmonies in the show's characteristic Manhattan accents. Furthermore, audiences were truly integrated into the production through its clever utilization of the entire space. Performers entered and exited through the house frequently and unexpectedly, sang inches away from viewers in the aisles, and even handed out strike fliers, fostering a rare oneness with their audience.

Matthew Rubin led the cast, masterfully embodying Jack Kelly's charisma. Often seen leaning nonchalantly against set pieces, Rubin's undeniable swagger was well contrasted with the character's vulnerable, desperate moments, and the actor delivered a notable vocal performance while maintaining the character's New York accent. Opposite Rubin was Catherine Brady as plucky journalist Katherine Plumber. Brady's confidence and poise onstage effectively demonstrated her character's opposition to the meek role for women of the 19th century. Another vocal standout, Brady collaborated nicely on building chemistry with Rubin via their increasing physical intimacy.

Amidst the well-rounded company, some supporting performers stood out. Hayden Polsky endearingly portrayed newsboy newcomer Davey's development from strait-laced to rebellious as he loosened up from early stiff physicality. Smooth vocal runs embellished Polsky's sweetly clear-toned singing. Giorgia Dallasta emanated sass and charm as theater owner Medda Larkin, ruling the stage with dry, witty humor and stunning technique in crooning "That's Rich." Finally, Jordan Richard captured Jack's jovial pal Crutchie, keeping up high physical emotion and energy despite the obstacle of his character's crutch. Richard was consistent in keeping off his "bad leg" while acting and executing choreography, adding realism to his portrayal.

Technical aspects of Quince Orchard's production continued integrating the audience into the show and establishing a distinct environment. A private box used by characters during a scene in Medda's theater was positioned among the audience's actual seats, making unique use of the auditorium to transport viewers to that Bowery theater themselves. Also extended into the audience was a projected moon used to distinguish nighttime scenes, paired with darker-colored lighting that faded into sunrise orange and pink and then morning sky blue in a moment of detailed lighting lead by Amelia Jabes. Set pieces were efficiently maneuvered by the streamlined QO Theatre Crew managed by Alison Wang and Amelia Jabes such that even minimal set dressing made for effective transitions between locations.

As discontent with corporations rises nationwide, young viewers of Disney's Newsies may see themselves in the revolting newsboys, preparing to take down the Joseph Pulitzers and William Randolph Hearsts of the 21st century. Quince Orchard students latched onto this empathy in a production that emphasized, above all else, genuine connection with their audience. From up-close interactions to an endearingly rambunctious ensemble, Quince Orchard left every viewer feeling like a part of the union, the strike, and the movement.