Fayetteville-Manlius High School Presents Energetic ‘Newsies’ Musical

Fayetteville-Manlius High School will stage the vibrant musical Newsies this March, captivating audiences with its high-energy performances. The production, based on true events, showcases a group of underprivileged newsboys who rise up against powerful adversaries in New York City. Show dates are set for March 6, 7, 13, and 14, 2026, with all performances taking place in the Fayetteville-Manlius High School Auditorium.

This two-time Tony Award®-winning musical has been described by The New York Times as “a musical worth singing about.” With its catchy score by Alan Menken, known for his work on Beauty and the Beast, and a book by acclaimed playwright Harvey Fierstein, the show has resonated with both audiences and critics alike.

The narrative of Newsies revolves around the themes of resilience and justice. It follows the journey of young newsboys who challenge the status quo and advocate for their rights, making it a poignant story about standing up for what is right. The musical features a series of exhilarating songs and dynamic dance sequences that contribute to its reputation as a crowd-pleaser.

The talented cast includes Brian Hebert as Jack Kelly and Zacharias Daniels as Crutchie, alongside a dedicated ensemble of students. The full cast list reveals a mix of familiar and new faces, such as Adam Dunlap as Davey and Kara Kleinhans as Elmer, ensuring a varied and engaging production.

Behind the scenes, a skilled creative team supports the performers. Shawn Hebert serves as both Co-Director and Music Director, while Mary Nickson acts as Co-Director. The choreography, designed by Hannah Komar, promises to bring an exciting visual element to the performance.

Performances of Newsies will begin at 19:00 on March 6, 7, 13, and 14, with a special matinée at 14:00 on March 14. Tickets are available for purchase online, providing an opportunity for the community to enjoy this inspiring tale of courage and camaraderie.

As part of the spring theater season, Fayetteville-Manlius High School’s production will join other notable performances in the Central New York area, including Oswego High School’s Matilda The Musical and Cicero-North Syracuse’s Mary Poppins.

With its compelling story and lively music, Newsies promises to be a highlight of the spring arts calendar, inviting audiences to “seize the day” and celebrate the spirit of youth and activism.