the excerpt: newsies
Sceno20 Production
Set in turn-of-the-century New York, Newsies follows homeless newsboy Jack “Cowboy” Kelly as he befriends brothers David and Les Jacobs. When publisher Joseph Pulitzer enforces unfair pricing policies that threaten their livelihood, the boys rally their fellow newsies to strike. With the help of journalist Bryan Denton, their movement grows into a citywide fight for justice.
The show portrays themes of resilience, unity, and empowerment among working-class youth, capturing the energy and grit of 1899 New York through its production design, costume work, and choreography.
The centerpiece, an asymmetrical vest, symbolized the unequal burden borne by exploited workers. Its design, echoing the unbalanced scales of justice, paid homage to nineteenth-century New York fashion. Each element was meticulously crafted, reflecting the era's attention to detail while integrating modern sustainability.
The vest served as a striking emblem of the production's values, blending artistry with social commentary. It urged the audience to reflect on societal imbalances and the significance of their choices. As the performers donned this attire, the vest embodied the story's essence, merging history, purpose, and artistry into a captivating narrative.
