Disney’s ‘Newsies Jr.’ comes to Brandon

The energy, teamwork, and passion of young performers from across western Manitoba are set to take centre stage as Westman Drama Ministries presents Disney’s “Newsies Jr.” on Jan. 16 and 17.

The production brings together children and teens from communities that include Killarney, Boissevain and surrounding areas, director Kailyn Loewen told the Sun during the team’s rehearsals on Saturday afternoon.

“This is our annual production, and this year we chose “Newsies Jr.”, which tells the story of the 1899 newspaper strike in New York City,” Loewen said. “It’s a classic Disney musical with great jazz music, and it’s all about newspapers — so it feels especially fitting.”

After months of rehearsals that began with auditions in August and practices starting in September, the cast recently moved into the theatre for the first time. Loewen said that transition is a major milestone for the young performers.

“We’ve been rehearsing in a small gym, so getting onto the big stage is a big adjustment,” she said. “Today (Saturday) was all about putting the dances on stage and helping the kids get comfortable in the theatre space.”

One of the unique challenges of the production, Loewen said, is blending performers of varying experience levels.

“We have kids who are doing their very first theatre production, and others who have been in 15 shows,” she said. “It’s been amazing to see the older, more experienced kids mentor the younger ones and show them how it all works.”

That sense of teamwork was felt by cast members.

Jordan Thiessen, who plays Crutchie, says the role feels like a natural fit. “He’s really happy and cheerful—pretty much my personality,” Thiessen said, adding that the cast’s preparation stands out. “This is the first show I’ve been in where everyone really knows everything. We’ve got an incredible cast.”

Playing the lead role of Jack Kelly is Nathan Clinche, a seasoned performer who has appeared in several musicals before. He said the production has been a valuable learning experience.

“I’ve had a lot more lines this time, so it’s taught me discipline,” Clinche said. “Everyone gets along really well and helps each other out. Next week, we’re going to get out there and nail it as a team.”

The role of Katherine Plumber is double-cast, with Jacobi Vanluijn-Michaluk and Autumn Reimer sharing the part. Vanluijn-Michaluk, who has been involved in musical theatre since 2019, called the role a dream come true.

“I’ve known this musical since I was five years old,” she said. “Working with a new group has been a bit of a challenge, but I really understand Catherine and what she stands for. I’m thankful Westman Drama believed I could take on such a powerful role.”

Reimer said the character’s independence has been a refreshing challenge. “She has a lot of spunk and does her own thing,” she said. “One of the biggest challenges has been her song — it’s one of the hardest I’ve done — but it’s been really rewarding to dig into her mindset and emotions.”

Loewen noted that community support has also played a key role in the production’s success, with newspapers from surrounding communities donated for use in the show.

As opening night approaches, excitement is building among both cast and director.

“I’m really excited to have an audience come in,” Loewen said. “The kids are ready, and they’re excited to perform for real people and feel that energy.”

“Newsies Jr.” will be staged at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium on Jan. 16-17.

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