Newsies: The Ultimate Guide For Fans

Hey everyone, let's dive into the fantastic world of Newsies! This guide is for all you fans out there, whether you're a seasoned 'newsie' veteran or just discovering the magic. We'll cover everything from the stage musical to the beloved Disney movie, the music, the characters, and some cool behind-the-scenes stuff. So, grab your papes, and let's get started!

What is Newsies About?

Alright, so what's this Newsies thing all about? At its heart, Newsies is a story about a group of teenage newsboys in New York City in 1899. These kids, orphans and runaways, sell newspapers to make a living. They're scrappy, they're tough, and they're all about looking out for each other. The plot kicks off when the newspaper tycoons, like Joseph Pulitzer, raise the prices the newsies have to pay for the papers. This means less money in the newsies' pockets, making it harder for them to survive.

This injustice sparks a fire in the newsies. Led by the charismatic Jack Kelly, they decide to strike! They refuse to sell the papers until the prices are lowered. This strike isn't just about money; it's about standing up for themselves, demanding fair treatment, and fighting for their dignity. The newsies face off against the powerful newspaper publishers, facing challenges and setbacks. They're up against the establishment, a system that seems rigged against them. Throughout the musical, the newsies learn the power of unity and the importance of fighting for what's right. They find their voices, and they discover that even the smallest voices can make a big difference when they come together. The story has themes of poverty, child labor, and standing up for your rights. But it's also a story of hope, resilience, and the power of dreams. It shows that even when facing impossible odds, you can achieve amazing things if you stick together and never give up. The core message is that everyone deserves a fair chance, and it's our responsibility to fight for that.

The Newsies story resonates so well because it's a David vs. Goliath narrative. The newsies are the underdogs, and audiences love rooting for the underdog. Plus, the musical numbers are super catchy, and the choreography is fantastic. It's a high-energy, feel-good story with a lot of heart.

The Newsies Movie vs. the Stage Musical: What's the Difference?

So, there are a couple of versions of Newsies floating around, the 1992 Disney movie and the stage musical. Both tell the same basic story, but they have their own unique flavors. The movie, directed by Kenny Ortega (who also did High School Musical), was the original. It introduced the world to the newsies and featured a young Christian Bale as Jack Kelly. The movie is a bit more compact, with a focus on the key plot points and characters. The songs are iconic, and the dance numbers are great, though the film was a box-office flop when it was first released.

The stage musical, on the other hand, is a more polished and expanded version. It premiered on Broadway in 2012, and it was a huge hit. The musical has a longer runtime and allows for more character development. It also includes new songs, and the choreography is even more elaborate and energetic. The stage musical has become the more popular version due to its wider appeal. Some of the characters get more depth, and the stage production has amazing sets and costumes. Both versions are amazing, but they offer different experiences. The movie is great for a nostalgic watch, but the stage musical offers a more immersive and theatrical experience. The stage musical is a more complete story, and it provides a better understanding of the characters' motivations and relationships.

Ultimately, whether you prefer the movie or the stage musical comes down to personal taste. Both are fantastic, and they're both essential parts of the Newsies legacy. I recommend experiencing both to truly appreciate the magic of Newsies!

Meet the Newsies: Characters You'll Love

Let's get to know the newsies themselves! These are the characters who make the story so engaging.

• Jack Kelly: Our hero! Jack is the charismatic leader of the newsies. He's an artist at heart, dreaming of escaping to Santa Fe. Jack is brave, passionate, and always looking out for his friends. His desire to paint and his leadership skills make him a compelling character.
• Crutchie: Crutchie is the heart of the newsies. He's got a bum leg, but he never lets it get him down. Crutchie is optimistic, loyal, and always supportive of his friends. He provides emotional support for Jack. He's one of the most endearing characters.
• David: David is the brains of the operation. He's the son of a family who struggles to make ends meet, and his intelligence and wit help the newsies strategize their strike. His analytical skills complement Jack's leadership. Together, they create a powerful team.
• Les: David's younger brother. Les is the youngest of the newsies. He's got a great street smart, and he helps the newsies connect with the other newsies around the city. Les adds humor and a touch of innocence to the story.
• Katherine Plumber: The journalist. She's a smart and ambitious young woman who helps the newsies tell their story. She provides a voice for the newsies to the city, and she develops a romantic interest with Jack Kelly.
• Joseph Pulitzer: The main antagonist. The powerful newspaper publisher who represents the establishment. His decisions set the conflict in motion.

These are just the main players, but there are tons of other memorable newsies, each with their own personality and charm. From Race to Mush, the newsies are a tight-knit family, and you'll grow to love them all.

The Music of Newsies: Songs That Will Stick With You

One of the best things about Newsies is the music. The songs are catchy, upbeat, and full of emotion. The music was composed by Alan Menken, who is also known for composing the music for The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin. Here are some of the most popular songs from the movie and the stage musical.