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By Allison Gourd

Holding a newspaper, senior Analiese Wilhauk smiles towards the audience. The cast will perform shows throughout the week of Saturday, Nov. 9 through Sunday, Nov. 17.

This year’s musical “Newsies” features 75 cast members and 23 crew members. The production is based on the 1992 film “Newsies.” In the show, publisher of The World Joseph Pulitzer raises the prices of newspapers to increase profits, making it more difficult for newsies to make a living and incites the push for a newsie strike.

According to senior Abby Lee, the cast has made it a goal to stay focused on creating a great production. 

“Our buzzword this year is professionalism, so were really trying to keep the show professional and make sure everybody is getting their own stuff done,” Lee says. “Memorizing lines, getting dances down and singing songs.”

According to sophomore Christine Turner, musical practice is a great way to make new friends and have a great time, but still, get work done. 

“Hanging out with your friends and learning new skills to make our production the best it can be,” Turner said. “Singing and dancing is always the best part, because we always laugh and just have a good time.”

Newsies cast and crew have been working on their production for about 12 weeks. 

Drama teacher Jon Copeland is very excited for the school to see the production this weekend. 

“The cast has worked so hard memorizing their lines, dances and songs,” Copeland said. 

Copeland notes a special aspect of students getting to perform for an audience.

“There is a rush of adrenaline that the kids get when they first perform on stage as their character,” Copeland said. “Knowing that the audience is there to watch makes them nervous but excited.”

The week leading up to the show, the cast and crew practiced everyday after school until around 9 p.m. They practiced in full costume and makeup and tried to have the most realistic practice possible to act like it is the real deal.

Along with the cast, the crew put in just as much work, according to Lee. The crew handled everything from the lighting, technology, sound, effects, costumes, makeup and sets. 

“Ore cast puts on the show, but the show wouldn’t happen without the crew,” Lee said.

Come see “Newsies” at Mill Valley in the theater on one of the following dates. Shows are selling out quickly, but you can see musical cast members selling tickets in the commons to preorder and reserve your seats.

Saturday, Nov. 9 at 7 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 10 at 3 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 13, 7 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 14, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 16, 7 p.m. 

Sunday, Nov. 17, 3 p.m.