In a vibrant celebration of youth and talent, 43 young performers from Casey are gearing up for a junior production of Disney’s Newsies, set to take the stage from April 4 to April 12, 2024. Under the direction of Victoria Horsburgh, this musical adaptation follows the story of the 1899 New York City newsboys strike, highlighting themes of friendship, courage, and loyalty. For many cast members, this show represents a significant milestone, with some making their stage debuts and others bidding farewell to the performing arts community they have long called home.
A Passion for Theatre
Victoria Horsburgh, a seasoned director with nearly two decades of experience, has been a core figure in the local performing arts scene. Her journey began in high school and has evolved through her studies at Deakin University, where she pursued a degree in drama. Since 2009, she has been actively involved with Players Theatre Company in Oakleigh East, directing beloved junior productions such as Madagascar Jr, Aladdin Jr, Wizard of Oz Jr, and Frozen Jr.
Horsburgh describes Newsies Jr as her passion project. “I first encountered the junior version in 2018 during a pilot production at the Junior Theatre Festival in Newcastle,” she said. “From the moment I watched it, I knew it was a remarkable story with a rich blend of drama and comedy, and important themes of bravery and friendship.” The production promises a dynamic 60-minute performance that showcases the talents of young actors aged eight to eighteen.
A Fond Farewell and New Beginnings
Among the cast are three students—Kaleb, Grace, and Tyler—who have been integral members of Players since their primary school days. This production marks their final performance with the theatre company, a bittersweet moment as they reflect on their growth and experiences. Kaleb recalls his journey beginning with Mulan, and how he encouraged his friends to join the company. Grace, now pursuing an acting degree at the Victorian College of the Arts, shares similar sentiments about the transition. “It’s really cool seeing where we were, and knowing we used to look up at the 18-year-olds so much, and being like, ‘oh, wait, that’s us now,’” she expressed.
The trio credits Players for not only nurturing their performance skills but also fostering confidence and teamwork. “When we started, none of us thought this would become more than a hobby,” Kaleb remarked. “Victoria saw potential in us that we didn’t see ourselves.” Grace added, “It’s a big blessing to have someone who believes in you before you do.”
A Safe Haven for Young Artists
Players Theatre Company has established itself as a welcoming space for young performers, especially for those who may feel out of place in other environments. Horsburgh highlighted the importance of inclusivity, stating, “We want this to be a fun and safe place where everyone feels accepted.” She recounted how one participant, who is autistic, expressed that this was the only space where she felt she could truly be herself.
Horsburgh draws parallels between theatre and sports, advocating for broader acceptance of diverse hobbies. “Musical theatre is a niche area,” she said, noting that many students find their passion for performance in an environment where it is often not celebrated. “We’ve seen kids audition for our shows and realize they’ve found their people. Parents often share how much their child’s confidence has grown through this experience.”
The upcoming performances of Newsies Jr at the Christine Strachan Theatre promise not only to showcase the talents of young actors but also to celebrate the spirit of community and the transformative power of the arts. Tickets are available at trybooking.com/events/landing/1431128.
