Arcadian Children’s Theatre group is all set to perform Newsies, a rousing David-vs-Goliath tale of young people fighting for what is right. Photos: Michael Bond Photography.
Extra! Extra! The streets of Corrimal are sounding a little more like 1899 New York this week, as dozens of the Illawarra’s most talented youngsters take to the stage for the latest show by Arcadians Children’s Theatre — Newsies.
From the elaborate costumes to big-little voices that reach the back of the Miner’s Lamp Theatre, these local legends are proving that you’re never too young to bring the magic of theatre to audiences.
Set in 1899 New York City, Newsies is a high-energy musical inspired by the true story of the Newsboy Strike. Charismatic Jack Kelly rallies a ragged band of teenage newspaper sellers to strike against unfair prices set by publishing titans Hearst and Pulitzer.
Arcadians Children’s Theatre parent volunteer Hannah McLeod said the energy at the Miner’s Lamp Theatre was never more infectious than when the kids took the stage.
“They’ve been rehearsing Saturday afternoons, but now in the lead-up to the show, they’re working hard both weekend days from 10 am to 4 pm,” she said. “They’re ready to put on a brilliant show.”
Running since 1985, the Arcadians Children’s Theatre is the youth division of the non-profit Arcadians Theatre Group, providing young people aged six to 16 with the opportunity to explore the magic of live performance.
They produce two shows a year, acting as an incubator for the region’s thespian-leaning youth. Each of its 40-plus members must show skill or promise as a triple threat — in song, dance and acting.
But the payoff isn’t one-way. Hannah said it was a great source of entertainment for the local community.
“Arcadians is a rare place. For the kids involved, it teaches resilience and confidence, gives them an outlet for creative expression and a place to make lifelong friendships, and that’s something the community really gets behind, which is why it’s survived as long as it has as a place run entirely by volunteers,” she said.
“But whether you’re involved with Arcadians, have a child in the show or simply enjoy the theatre, live theatre provides an escape — perhaps never more so than when you’re watching those kids having fun on stage.
“You’ll walk out inspired and smiling, I guarantee it.”
The show goes on as Arcadians Theatre Group continues its efforts to raise the funds for vital works on the former library-turned-theatre.
This includes applications for loans, federal and state grants, fundraising events and the exploration of mutually beneficial alliances with other theatre groups.
“There is still a long way to go, but Arcadians are determined to keep the theatre open,” Arcadians Theatre Group President Steve Sanders said.
Newsies runs from Wednesday 29 April to Sunday 3 May and tickets range from $18 to $30 — book via Trybooking.
