Opening this Friday, and running March 8-17 is Newsies, the heartwarming and empowering story of the 1899 New York City paperboy strike. Filled with high energy choreography, uplifting ballads and an inspirational storyline, Newsies is a fantastic choice for Roseville High School students looking to support past and present Roseville affiliates.

According to freshman Gavin Valdemoro, who plays one of the Delancey brothers in his first Roseville Theatre Arts Academy (RTAA) production, his decision to branch out of Roseville High School theatre stems from a desire to perform more.

“I decided to do Newsies at RTAA because I wanted to get into on stage production instead of just school plays,” Valdemoro said. “I thought it would be a good start.”

The show is directed by former Roseville High School drama teacher Ashley White, and stage managed by Roseville High School alumnus Griffin Sims. Both expect the wholesome story of Newsies to resonate with audiences.

“[Newsies] is a story about change and the power that everyone has to enact change,” White said. “It is a story that shows the power of unity-banding together for a greater cause and a greater good.”

Sims believes the show will have a positive impact on the audience.

“The audience is going to leave the theater astonished by the talent of the cast, energized by the awesome choreography, and empowered by the strong music,” Sims said. “It’s a show that will have the audience leaving the theater feeling motivated and invigorated to make positive change in the world.”

Sims, a graduate from the class of 2018, spent most of his time at Roseville High School on the stage, performing in Grease, Almost Maine, and The Addams Family. At RTAA, Sims explores a new role behind the scenes.

“I feel so lucky to be stage managing Newsies at Roseville Theatre Arts Academy. I am grateful that the director and the staff at RTAA have entrusted me with this position,” Sims said. “The staff is open and really work together as [a] team to create a successful production.”

Newsies runs from March 8-17, and performs at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are $13 and can be bought online on their website as well as at the door.