The Young Stars Theatre Academy (YSTA) once again delivers pure magic with their latest production, Disney’s Newsies Jr. — now entering its final weekend at the Fremont Centre Theatre in South Pasadena. With just four performances left (through October 26), audiences still have a chance to catch this high-energy, heartfelt show that captures the grit, courage, and camaraderie of young working ‘newsies’ standing up for what’s right.
Based on the beloved Disney film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White, this youth adaptation features lyrics by Jack Feldman, music by Alan Menken, and a book by Harvey Fierstein. The show is directed by YSTA’s Jim Blanchette, with choreography by Esteban Hurtado and music direction by Cadence Johnston — all lending professional polish to a remarkably ambitious youth production.
YSTA runs two separate casts — the Santa Fe cast and the New York cast — alternating performances, each bringing its own flavor and sparkle to the story. This review spotlights the Santa Fe cast, whose performance radiated confidence and passion from start to finish.
As Jack Kelly, Morgan Rothenberg commands the stage with charisma well beyond her years. Carrying the heart of the story, Rothenberg delivers a dynamic, emotionally layered performance — equal parts rebel, dreamer, and leader. Her voice soars through numbers like “Santa Fe” with conviction, while her interactions with the ensemble reveal both grit and vulnerability. Her standout portrayal grounds the production and reminds the audience why Jack Kelly remains one of Disney’s most enduring heroes.
Among the standouts was Elsa Rose Barbouth as Catherine Plummer, the intrepid reporter whose sassy wit and spirited delivery brought journalistic fire to the role. Lexi Callan impressed with a vibrant, emotionally connected portrayal that balanced strength and vulnerability. Behind the scenes, Caighsi Currie not only performed onstage (as Muriel and Olive in the ensemble) but also was acting dance captain assisted with backstage coordination — a true testament to YSTA’s collaborative spirit.
Other audience favorites included Josephine Barbouth, Ruby Berger, and Inez Brennan, whose energy and engagement brought each group number to life. With lively ensemble dancing, strong harmonies, and believable storytelling, this Newsies Jr. production felt surprisingly sophisticated for such young performers. The show’s themes — corporate power, solidarity, fairness, and hope — resonate just as powerfully today as ever.
Every number bursts with enthusiasm, and the choreography — crisp, complex, and joyfully executed — keeps the audience riveted. The dedication behind the scenes is palpable, from the clever staging to the rhythmic precision of group vocals.
There’s still time to “seize the day.”
Tickets and showtimes: CLICK HERE
Final Performances:
Fremont Centre Theatre, South Pasadena
October 24–26, 2025
