Ridge Drama Students 'Seize The Day' In Upcoming Newsies Production

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — The students of the renowned Ridge High School Drama Club are rehearsing tirelessly to bring another amazing story to the stage this March: Alan Menken’s Newsies.

Set during the newspaper strike of the 1890s, Newsies tells the impressive story of teens working together under the fierce leadership of Jack Kelly to defeat the oppressive newspaper tycoon, Joseph Pullitzer.

With the help of one of the first female reporters, Katherine Plumber, the newsboys think they are unstoppable… but what challenges, surprises, and betrayals will they face along the way?

The actors have been working diligently under the fantastic direction of Tim Lynch to answer these questions and bring their characters to life on stage, in addition to working with music director Carol Beadle and choreographers Rachel Miranda and Jennifer DiGiuseppe to produce this masterful work of theatre at the Ridge Performing Arts Center.

After winning the Papermill Rising Star Award for Best Overall Musical for their production of Matilda last year, the students of Ridge Drama Club continue to work on their craft to improve every day.

Since beginning rehearsals in December, the students have worked with fight choreographer Stephen Davis to tackle the Broadway-level fight scenes in Newsies, bringing professionalism and intention to every moment on stage.

In addition to the cast, the tech, stage, and costume crews have been working faithfully under the leadership of Colin Berry, Jason M. Stewart, and Bonnie Grube to execute impressive light displays, creative set design, and detailed costuming to add a further layer of excellence to this production.

With the work of everyone, Newsies will touch the hearts of all those in the community who have ever stood up for what was right.

This amazing display of talent, collaboration, and dedication is sure to dazzle audiences of all ages on Thursday, March 2 at 6:30 p.m., Friday, March 3 at 7 p.m., Saturday, March 4 at 2 and 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 5 at 2 p.m at the Ridge Performing Arts Center, 286 South Finley Ave., Basking Ridge.

Tickets are $16 for adults and $12 for students and senior citizens, and they can be purchased at ridgepac.bernardsboe.com.

— By: Jordan Perla, RHS Student, (Senior)