Rehearsals underway for NOCCA’s spring production of ‘Newsies’
Rehearsals are underway for the North County Coalition for the Arts spring production of “Newsies.” Director and Valley native George Scott is working to deliver a show unlike any other the Valley has previously seen.
With a nod to “Newsies: The Musical,” a Broadway production inspired by the 1992 Disney musical film, Scott’s presentation will follow the same storyline involving the Newsboys Strike of 1899 in New York City. Centered around themes of friendship, love and courage, the play has an uplifting tone and radiates positivity in times of doubt.
“This will be the highest energy show that the Valley has ever had, with a ton of great music and choreography,” Scott said. “I’m really impressed with how enthusiastic the kids have been, and there is a lot of talent that I’ve noticed in the auditions and rehearsals.”
With the initial open casting call and auditions being held in January, approximately 70 kids and young adults between the ages of 8 and 25 years old showed up to try out for parts in the production. Adult tryouts brought nine interested individuals set on securing roles in the musical.
During the three-part audition process, each contender had to demonstrate skills in a choreography segment, act out a scene from the play and sing a portion of a song for the audition panel. When all was said and done after four intensive hours of audition, the group of young performers was whittled down to about 35 for the available parts.
Chase Seals, an Imperial High School student, relished the opportunity to try out for the leading role of Jack Kelly, the passionate and charismatic spearhead of the Newsboys Strike.
“This is the largest role I’ve ever had, so I’m excited to get to sing alone up on stage, as well as be a part of a phenomenal group,” Seals said. “It is the most indescribable feeling in the world when you take your bow after the show is over, and I can’t wait to see people’s reactions once they see how much work is being put into this show.”
Playing the female lead role opposite of Seals is Analia Sotelo, who was shocked upon learning that she was chosen to play the character of Katherine Plumber, a journalist and Jack Kelly’s love interest.
“During the audition process, I thought I was going to be selected for one of the ensemble characters, as a Newsie,” Soto recalled. “After auditioning, I couldn’t believe I was offered one of the main roles. I’m grateful for the opportunity to come back to the stage again.”
All in all, Scott estimated there will be about 80 people in total working actively on “Newsies” by the time opening night arrives. These include critical contributors such as makeup artists and stagehands. \
Working alongside Stage Manager Sarah Malan, Scott has assembled a core production crew that includes Alanna Kruger as producer and costume designer, Aaron Stegall as sound engineer, Jeff Green as set designer, Steven Cosio as lighting technician, and Kassandra Sanchez as choreographer.
With multiple rehearsals taking place every week at this point in time, the primary focus for everyone involved is blocking (determining where you stand on stage), practicing singing and developing choreography.
Sanchez, who previously helped choreograph Scott’s recent production of Imperial High School’s “Grease,” is well experienced in theater. Having taken extensive dance classes, she knows how to bring out the best in the movements of the actors.
“Teaching kids how to dance and seeing them improve is the best feeling ever,” Sanchez said. “We have people who have never danced before, and they are doing great.”
Scott’s daughter, Charlotte Scott, said the play has something to offer for everyone who attends. Playing the role of the character Crutchie, she said she knows the hard work of all involved will pay off.
“Theater is a fun and open community for all,” the younger Scott said. “This production is about remaining optimistic and focusing on the better opportunities that the future holds. We’ve become a close-knit community of people while working on this, and we can’t wait to share it with our audience.”
“Newsies” will run from May 17 to 19 at Palmer Auditorium in Brawley. Ticket prices will be $20 for general admission and $30 for orchestra seating.