Near West Theatre announces AUDITIONS for Newsies Youth Cast (Ages 9-15) Auditions - July 5, 6 & 7 Thursday and Friday from 6:00-9:00pm Saturday from 2:00-5:00pm Come ONE of these times, and plan to stay for the entire time specified. Arrive 15 minutes early to register. Anyone arriving after the starting time will not audition that day. (See list of roles below) LOCATION Near West Theatre | 6702 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44102 ABOUT THE AUDITION * Seeking an expansive, multicultural cast. All roles are open. * No experience or prepared material necessary. * A group audition in a relaxed, playful and friendly atmosphere. * Wear comfortable clothing & shoes for dancing so you can move easily. * Actors are led through multiple improvisational exercises including acting, movement and singing. Can't make it to these auditions? Call Near West Theatre's Office at 216-961-9750 STRONG DANCERS NEEDED! The story in this musical has a lot of heart, and is beautifully told through incredible music and A WHOLE LOT OF DANCE! We're looking to work with a diverse cast of boys and girls to make this story come to life through tap, ballet and modern jazz! ABOUT THE SHOW Based on the Disney blockbuster film and set in turn-of-the century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged "newsies." When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys' expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike for what's right! Newsies features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman, and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein. Directed by Kelcie Nicole Dugger. Rehearsals begin Sunday, July 29, 2018. The show runs September 21-30, 2018 with performances on September 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29 and 30. Music by Alan Menken | Lyrics by Jack Feldman | Book by Harvey Fierstein Based on the Disney film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS Jack Kelly - Male The charismatic leader of the Manhattan newsies, Jack is an orphaned dreamer and an artist who yearns to get out of the crowded streets of New York and make a better life for himself out West. Fiercely protective of his best friend, Crutchie, and strongly loyal, Jack isn't afraid to use his voice to attain better conditions for the working kids of New York City. Though living on the streets has given him a tough-guy exterior, Jack has a big heart and can demonstrate a sweet vulnerability - especially when it comes to bantering with a certain female reporter. Crutchie - Male or Female A dedicated newsie with a bum leg, and though it's painful, it does helps sell more newspapers. Though he walks with the assistance of a crutch, Crutchie doesn't let it define him; when in a jam, Jack Kelly's best friend relies on a goofy- sweet sense of humor and optimistic resilience. Crutchie is the heart of the resistance. Davey - Male Les' straight-laced, bright big brother. He starts selling newspapers to help his family earn a living, but becomes swept up in the fervor of the strike. A leader in his own right who is learning to use his voice to uplift others, Davey is the brains of the resistance. Les - Male Davey's cheeky younger brother. He is inspired by the freedom of the newsies and loves their independent lifestyle. A precocious and natural newsie, Les is an intuitive salesboy and a pint-sized charmer. He should present as younger than the other newsies. Newsies - Male and Female Including Albert, Buttons, Elmer, Finch, Henry, Ike, Jo Jo, Mike, Mush, Race, Romeo, Specs, Splasher, and Tommy Boy, are some of the hard-working kids of New York City that go on strike for a livable wage. Katherine Plumber - Female An ambitious young reporter who works hard to make a name for herself as a legitimate journalist in a time when women aren't taken seriously. Quick, funny, and resourceful, she boldly captures the voice of a new generation rising in her coverage of the newsies' strike. While she generally has no time for cocky, streetwise young men, she makes an exception for Jack Kelly. Other roles include: Darcy, Bill, Wiesel, Oscar and Morris Delancey, Goons, Joseph Pulitzer, Seitz, Bunsen, Hannah, Nunzio, Guard, Snyder, Medda Larkin, The Bowery Beauties, and more. All to be cast within the company.