Newsies Junior Script

It's July 20, 1899, and the streets of New York City are buzzing with newsies, young boys who sell newspapers on the corner. Jack Kelly, a charismatic and confident newsie, has just been fired from his job selling the New York World after his boss, Mr. Denton, raises the price of the newspapers from 50 cents to 60 cents per hundred.

The script relies on the collective power of the Newsies ensemble. Keep the stage balanced by assigning distinct personalities, names, and mini-backstories to background ensemble members to keep them engaged. 2. The Set: Newspapers and Scaffolding newsies junior script

The is a condensed, 60-minute adaptation of the hit Broadway musical, specifically designed by Music Theatre International (MTI) for middle school and youth performers. Based on the 1899 true story of the Newsboys Strike in New York City, this Disney favorite features music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman, and a book by Harvey Fierstein. Key Differences: Broadway vs. Newsies JR. It's July 20, 1899, and the streets of

The story revolves around Jack Kelly, a charismatic and ambitious newsboy who dreams of a better life. When the large newspapers, led by Pulitzer and Hearst, raise the cost of the newspapers that the newsies sell, the newsboys decide to go on strike. Jack, along with his friends and a scrappy newcomer named Davy, rally the newsies across the city to stand up against their exploiters. The script relies on the collective power of

: The charismatic leader of the newsies. He is an artist who dreams of escaping to Santa Fe.

: Songs like "Watch What Happens" and "The World Will Know" feature rapid-fire lyrics. Clear articulation is vital.

The script includes the most iconic tracks from the original film and Broadway production, edited for pacing. Song Title Featured Characters Scene Context Jack, Crutchie Jack shares his dream of leaving New York City. "Carrying the Banner" Jack, Newsies Introduces the daily hustle of selling newspapers. "The Bottom Line" Pulitzer, Seitz, Bunsen Pulitzer decides to raise the price of papers. "That’s Rich" Medda Larkin A show-stopping vaudeville performance. "The World Will Know" Jack, Davey, Les, Newsies The newsies officially declare their strike. "Watch What Happens" Katherine resolves to report on the strike. "Seize the Day" Davey, Jack, Newsies The anthem of the strike as the kids unite. "King of New York" Katherine, Les, Newsies A high-energy celebration after making the front page. "Finale" The strike resolves, celebrating justice and unity. Audition Tips for Directors and Actors For Actors