Overview

Inspired by the Newsboys’ Strike of 1899, Disney’s Newsies follows Jack Kelly and a determined group of young newspaper sellers as they organize against powerful publishing magnates in turn-of-the-century New York City.

Featuring music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman and a book by Harvey Fierstein, the musical combines historical storytelling with athletic choreography and a large ensemble of individually defined characters.

The Lexington Theatre Company presented the production at the Lexington Opera House with a company combining established Broadway performers, emerging professionals and student artists.

Contribution

Matthew Solomon served as Costume Designer, creating the production’s extensive period wardrobe and visual identity.

The design established the contrasting worlds of the newsboys, working-class New Yorkers, vaudeville performers and powerful members of the publishing establishment. Individual combinations of silhouette, color, texture, distressing and accessories gave each newsboy a distinct identity while keeping the ensemble visually cohesive.

Because the production featured demanding choreography, the costumes were designed to support athletic movement while maintaining their period character. The wardrobe also accommodated a large company, multiple character tracks, quick changes and an intensive limited engagement.

Production Details

Production: Disney’s Newsies

Production Company: The Lexington Theatre Company

Venue: Lexington Opera House

Location: Lexington, Kentucky

Performance Dates: August 1–4, 2019

Music: Alan Menken

Lyrics: Jack Feldman

Book: Harvey Fierstein

Director: Lyndy Franklin Smith

Choreographer: Mara Newbery Greer

Music Director and Conductor: Brock Terry

Costume Designer: Matthew Solomon

Lighting Designer: Tanya Harper

Jack Kelly: Dan DeLuca

Katherine: Tessa Grady

Joseph Pulitzer: Stephen R. Buntrock

Medda Larkin: Carrie Compere