By Jon Chown
Scotts Valley Performing Arts is known for big family musicals, but now it’s going to another level with its production of “Newsies,” which will have a total cast of 83 people, the majority of them children.
“It’s a huge cast of 83 because I’m insane,” laughed director Mikaela Reed. “Most are kids. The youngest is 5. I put them in tiny newsie caps and they’re so cute. I can’t tell you how excited I am.”
Reed, 28, is a Corralitos resident and an Aptos High graduate. “The theater program there was amazing,” she said. She began acting at age 4 in local theater and recently starred in SVPA’s production of “Cinderella.” This will be her first time directing for Scotts Valley Performing Arts, but her 17th time directing a production.
“I love inspiring kids and teenagers. That’s my strength,” Reed said.
“Newsies” is a musical inspired by the real-life Newsboys Strike of 1899. Set in New York City at the turn of the 20th century, the story follows Jack Kelly, a charismatic teenage newsboy who dreams of escaping the streets for a better life out West.
The Sun cast of the upcoming production of “Newsies.”
When powerful newspaper publishers Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst raise the price newsboys must pay for papers, cutting into their already slim profits, the boys organize a citywide strike.
Jack becomes a leader of the movement, rallying newsies from across the city to stand up against exploitation.
Along the way, Jack meets Katherine Plumber, an ambitious young reporter who helps bring public attention to the strike. Facing opposition from publishers and police, the newsies stick together and force the publishers to compromise, proving that even the weakest in society can win if they are united.
Reed said her favorite moment is the musical number “Once and for All.”
“It’s the pinnacle of the Newsies strike and they’re printing their own newspaper. It’s really a powerful moment. It consistently makes me cry. I love it.”
Scotts Valley Performing Arts President Cindy Gorski said the organization was looking for something to fit the Scotts Valley community, which is very family-oriented, and the matchup with “Newsies” and Reed directing it sounded perfect.
“She loves that show. It’s kind of a passion project for her,” Gorski said.
For Reed, it’s also a family affair. Her mom is in the show, as well as a niece. “My mom said to me, ‘Hey, now you get to tell me what to do,’” Reed laughed.
And though it’s fun, it’s not without its challenges. Reed said she wouldn’t be able to pull it off without significant community support.
“It’s a beast of a project, but it’s been a wonderful experience because of my staff and the community,” she said. “I’m incredibly grateful for all the amazing parents.”
To showcase as much local talent as possible, the “Newsie” roles are performed by two different casts (The Sun and The World). Check the “Cast” page on the website to see who is who.
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“Newsies” will run Friday through Sunday from Feb. 13 to March 1. All performances start at 7 p.m., except on Sundays, which begin at 1 p.m. There will also be matinees on Saturdays at 1 p.m., in addition to the evening performance. Performances will take place at The Landing, a performing arts center at 251B Kings Village Road. The show is recommended for ages 8+. While the show offers an inspiring message for families, it includes mild period language, stylized stage combat, and a 2+ hour runtime.”
TOP PHOTO: The World cast of the upcoming production of “Newsies.”