Kearney High School is presenting the musical Newsies, Jr. on Feb. 14-18 in the auditorium. Performances will open at 7 p.m. nightly, with a 1 p.m. matinee on Saturday.

“The amount of physical activity and exertion that is happening on stage at Kearney High School can only be described as extraordinary!” Drama Director Wendy Fish said. “Nearly 50 students ages eight through 18 come together to tap dance, jump, flip and cartwheel off of tables. And this is just the dance rehearsal!”

Newsies, Jr. is based on the real story of the 1899 strike by newsboys against the great powers that controlled all media of the day.  Against all odds, the Newsies seized the day and showed that they were a force to be reckoned with. On Broadway, Newsies won many awards, broke records, and played to packed houses on Broadway for over two years before going out on tour.

Students have been working since July on dances that require great amounts of energy, athleticism, and enthusiasm, according to Ms. Fish.  In addition, the kids are singing, and acting their parts and telling a deeply moving story.

“The students at Kearney are living examples of the theme that radiates from our story: young people do indeed have the power to change the world,” Fish said. “Every day these kids rehearse and practice, using their skills and talents to tell this inspired story with a deep respect for those who started a movement that changed America.”