Sam Ruby on Newsies, OLPD theatre and improving the world.

We finally caught up with recent Lincoln-way East Grad Sam Ruby , who plays Crutchie in the upcoming production of Disney's Newsies at OLPD theatre, and he took a few moments out of his busy schedule to chat with us about the show.

What makes this musical so special ?

The difference is the director. She (Dawn Farrell) sets the tone for everything and makes us “drop negativity at the door” and cooperate. Dawn has fostered a positive atmosphere throughout this summer, and as a result, cast and crew have become close and committed to each other. There's also a drive to personal best that is demonstrated by our director and carried through by everyone involved.

Also this particular cast is motivated to work together and cooperate. We hang out together outside of rehearsals as well. I've met new people from all over and feel connected to them all. I've made new friends who are 8 years old in this show and friends who are way older, like 50 or something. We've all bonded. That ’s why the show is so great --- you can feel the energy and see it on stage.

This program (OLPD Theatre) is known for it’s quality and I have fond memories of it (from doing teen shows before high school schedules got in the way, and also from attending shows ) so when I saw they were doing NEWSIES I jumped at the chance to work with them again.

You play Crutchie in this musical .What's he all about ?

My backstory: Jack found Crutchie, who is disabled, getting beat up and downtrodden. Crutchie was being treated poorly before (by family, other newsies) but he found comfort in Jack , and Jack’s had his trust ever since . This developed into a devotion to Jack, but Crutchie is also good for Jack. Crutchie doesn't let anyone quit or give up, not even Jack. Crutchie is the optimistic resilience of the show and he is the personification of the message of hope and grit that is Newsies.

And yet - no spoilers- Crutchie is missing from much of Act II. What happens to him?

He sings backstage vocals and entertains whichever young boy is not Les for that show!

But seriously, Crutchie is all-present even when he's not present. Crutchie being locked up /abused/ not a part of everything looms over much of Act II. Jack’s reluctance to help Davey is in fear of more kids suffering the fate of Crutchie, but Davey gets Jack back into the game by pointing out that if Jack gives up, then Crutchie is in the Refuge, has suffered, for nothing. So Crutchie is the driving spirit of Act II even when he’s not present on the stage. Plus I get to play backstage with Billy or Cooper !

Sounds like this show is keeping you busy enough. What's next after this?

Literally two days after our final show and set strike, I will be moving into my freshman college dorm. I am going to be studying Theatre Education at Ball State University where I hope to learn tons and work with other young people and inspire the next crop of young actors to work hard together . If I can do half as well as Dawn (our director) , I will be a success.

Best of luck to you Sam and we hope to be seeing more of you someday. In the meantime, we will be looking for your smile that spreads like butter in NEWSIES this weekend at OLPD Theatre.

IF YOU GO
This family friendly musical is full of familiar tunes and amazing dancing. Based on the real-life Newsboy Strike of 1899, this new Disney musical tells the story of Jack Kelly, a rebellious newsboy who dreams of a life as an artist away from the big city. After publishing giant Joseph Pulitzer raises newspaper prices at the newsboys' expense, Kelly and his fellow newsies take action. With help from the beautiful female reporter Katherine Plumber, all of New York City soon recognizes the power of "the little man", the real "King of New York". This high energy musical features eight local Lincoln-way area performers. After a sold out first weekend, remaining showtimes are Friday August 9 @ 7:30pm, UPDATE FRIDAY ALSO SOLD OUT ! Saturday August 10 @ 3pm and 7:30 pm , and Sunday August 11 @ 3pm. EDIT: SUNDAY IS SOLD OUT! Tickets at Showtix4u.com For more information, call 708 857-2200 or find us on Facebook !