By Josh Hall

march 19-21

Podcast: The Thurber cast of ‘Newsies’ talks upcoming theatre production

Mar 13, 2026 | 3:29 PM

Perhaps it wasn’t a huge success when the Disney film released in 1992, but the stage drama version of ‘Newsies’ has received worldwide acclaim since its 2012 debut.

That’s part of what has students involved in Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School’s drama program excited about putting on ‘Newsies,’ March 19-21 at the Red Deer Polytechnic Arts Centre.

A larger-than-usual ensemble — 44 cast members and 24 musicians, plus a few others — make this production one of the largest Thurber has ever put on.

“It’s exciting for students to be part of something so iconic,” says Tara Koett, Thurber drama teacher, and director for the upcoming show.

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“The students are telling real stories, which makes this production more meaningful. They’re not just performing, they’re learning about the lives and struggles of these young people.”

‘Newsies’ is based on the real-life events of the 1899 newsboy strikes in New York City. It follows Jack Kelly and a group of teenage newsboys who organize to fight unfair working conditions imposed by powerful newspaper publishers. Students portray characters inspired by real people and events from history.

Audience members can also expect sophisticated choreography and impressive dance numbers.

“This production is known for its choreography,” Koett added. “Our dance teacher, Alissa Kleinloog, has been working closely with the cast, and we have a very accomplished alumnus, Jesse Drweiga, who came in to teach tap to many students who had never put on tap shoes prior to this show. The sheer amount of choreography in ‘Newsies’ is wild. It has been a great opportunity to teach students a lot of dance techniques.”

‘Newsies’ also features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken, with lyrics by Jack Feldman.

To learn more, or to purchase tickets, click here.

Listen to The Everything Red Deer Podcast featuring our fun conversation with cast members Raiden, Kait, Ray and Nat.

L-R (front): Raiden Seiyama, Kait Shaw, Ray Dalstra, and Nat Bahler, part of the cast of ‘Newsies’ March 19-21 at RDP, with rdnewsNOW reporter and host of The Everything Red Deer Podcast, Josh Hall (background).