Disney’s NEWSIES: The Broadway Musical Auditions
March 8 and 9 at Elgin Community College
Open to performers in grades 2 – age 23
Disney’s Newsies is a high-energy Broadway musical inspired by the true story of the Newsboys’ Strike of 1899 in New York City. The show centers on Jack Kelly, a charismatic and independent teenage newsboy who dreams of a better life beyond the streets. Alongside a tight-knit group of fellow “newsies,” Jack scrapes by selling newspapers for powerful publishers who profit off their hard work.
When publishing tycoon Joseph Pulitzer raises newspaper prices at the expense of the boys, the newsies decide they’ve had enough. What begins as a small act of defiance grows into a full-scale strike, uniting newsboys from across the city. With the help of Katherine Plumber, an ambitious young reporter eager to prove herself, the boys learn how to use their voices, their unity, and the power of the press to fight back against injustice.
Filled with thrilling choreography, rousing anthems, and heartfelt moments, Newsies is a story about standing up for what’s right, believing in yourself, and the strength of teamwork. The show features a large ensemble, strong roles for young performers of all experience levels, and celebrates courage, friendship, and youthful determination.
Auditions are open to children currently in grade 2 through performers who will be 23 years of age or younger, at the time of the performances. Rehearsals will be held at Elgin Community College and performances at the Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College. Participants 16 years of age or older will receive a college credit for their participation in the show.
To ensure the best experience for our cast members, this production will be double cast and most performers will only participate in one week of tech and one week of performances. Therefore, auditioners do not need to be available both weeks of the production in order to participate. During audition registration, you will be asked whether you are available for week one, week two or both weeks. Please note that no absences are permitted for any tech rehearsals or performances for the week in which you are cast.
Week one tech rehearsals: June 8-11
Week one performances: June 12, 13, 14
Week two tech rehearsals: June 16-18
Week two performances: June 20 & 21, 2026
For those currently participating in the CTE production of Descendants, please note that our rehearsals will not begin in full earnest until Descendants has closed, therefore it is possible to participate in both productions.
Auditions will be held March 9 and 10th at Elgin Community College. Limited audition slots are available and will be reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis. Once all audition slots have been filled, a waitlist process will be in place. Invited callbacks will be Thursday, March 12th.