Podcast
Questions and Answers
What event inspired the story of Newsies, and who was its key leader?
What event inspired the story of Newsies, and who was its key leader?
The story of Newsies is inspired by the Newsboy Strike of 1899, led by Kid Blink.
Which two screenwriters adapted the Newsies story for the film, and what was their approach?
Which two screenwriters adapted the Newsies story for the film, and what was their approach?
Screenwriters Bob Tzudicker and Noni White adapted the story as a non-musical screenplay.
What sparked the transfer of Newsies from Paper Mill Playhouse to Broadway?
What sparked the transfer of Newsies from Paper Mill Playhouse to Broadway?
Extraordinary media and public interest during its run at Paper Mill Playhouse sparked the transfer to Broadway.
Who were the composer and lyricist responsible for the new songs created for the stage adaptation of Newsies?
Who were the composer and lyricist responsible for the new songs created for the stage adaptation of Newsies?
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How does Harvey Fierstein’s book contribute to the plot of Newsies' musical adaptation?
How does Harvey Fierstein’s book contribute to the plot of Newsies' musical adaptation?
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Study Notes
History of Newsies
- Inspired by the real-life Newsboy Strike of 1899, triggered by a price increase in newspapers by publishers.
- Kid Blink, a young newsboy, led the two-week strike against powerful publishers like Pulitzer and Hearst.
- The successful strike contributed to improved conditions for newsboys and marked the beginnings of the child labor movement.
From Big Screen to Broadway
- Based on David Nasaw's book Children of the City.
- Initially developed as a non-musical screenplay by Bob Tzudicker and Noni White, turned into a 1992 musical film.
- Newsies became the most requested title from Disney not yet adapted for the stage, leading to its Broadway debut.
- The Paper Mill Playhouse production sparked significant media and public interest, resulting in its Broadway transfer.
- New songs for the stage adaptation by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman include:
- ‘The Bottom Line’ (Joseph Pulitzer)
- ‘That’s Rich’ & ‘Don’t Come A-Knocking’ (Medda Larkin’s theatre)
- ‘Watch What Happens’ (Katharine Plummer)
- ‘Brooklyn’s Here’ (newsies joining the struggle)
- ‘Something to Believe In’ (Jack and Katharine).
- Harvey Fierstein added a new love interest character, a reporter supporting the newsboys’ cause.
- The Broadway run expanded from a planned 105 performances to a remarkable 1,005 performances over two and a half years.
Awards and Recognition
- Nominated for 23 major theatrical awards including:
- 2012 Tony® Award for Best Choreography & Best Original Score.
- 2012 Drama Desk Awards for Outstanding Choreography & Outstanding Music.
- 2012 Outer Critics Circle Awards for Outstanding Choreography & New Score.
Fan Engagement
- A dedicated fan base, Fansies, significantly influenced the Broadway transition.
- Twitter discussions about Newsies reached 14 million people upon Broadway announcement.
- The official Newsies Facebook page garnered 100,000 fans before opening.
Choreography
- Christopher Gattelli’s choreography features 31 backflips, dynamic spins, leaps, and tap dance elements.
- Seize the Day includes a dance break utilizing 16 newspapers, scored for easy separation.
- Daily performances involve 42 sheets of paper in the riot sequence, recycled or distributed to audience members.
- In King of New York, newsboys use two pairs of shoes—one for the majority of the performance and one equipped with taps for the number.
- Five microphones ensure that tap dancing is clearly heard during performances.
Use of Newspapers
- Each performance incorporates around 150 specially printed newspapers with the headline “Trolley Strike Enters Third Week.”
- Newspapers are carefully managed to avoid damage and can be reused multiple times.
- Newsstand bundles and fight scene newspapers are crafted from foam with a paper outer layer for safety.
- Newsie Banner bundles are made of 300 pages of glued legal paper covered with contact paper to prevent tearing during performances.
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Description
Explore the fascinating history behind the musical 'Newsies,' which is inspired by the real-life Newsboy Strike of 1899. Learn about key figures like Kid Blink and the powerful newspaper publishers involved. This quiz will test your knowledge of this significant event and its impact on the newsboy community.
