Globe LIVE, 9Works to stage first local production of ‘Newsies’
MANILA, Philippines — Globe LIVE, the production arm of Globe, continues its exceptional streak in the performance arts. After “American Idiot” and “A Christmas Carol,” it is now producing another award-winning Broadway musical, “Newsies,” this 2017.
Globe LIVE is the first company in the Philippines to be given the rights to locally produce Disney’s “Newsies,” in partnership with 9Works Theatrical.
According to Joe Caliro, senior adviser for Creative Marketing and Multi-Media Businesses and executive producer of Globe Live, Newsies takes Globe’s partnership with Disney a notch higher.
(From left) Santi Santa Maria, managing director and executive producer of 9Works Theatrical, Robbie Guevara, director 9Works Theatrical, and Joe Caliro, senior adviser for Creative Marketing & Multi-Media Businesses and executive producer of Globe Live.
The production, which Caliro described as a “triple threat in dancing, singing and acting” will be staged at the Globe Iconic Store, an open-space venue at Bonifacio Global City that allows even the most elaborate of productions.
In turn, Disney Theatrical Productions told Caliro that “Newsies” is the perfect show for the venue.
“Newsies” is loosely based on the real-life 1899 newsboy strike in New York City, where a group of boys initiated a strike hoping to improve how the child labor force of newspaper hawkers were compensated. It was first released as a film in 1992, starring Christian Bale as Jack Kelly, the leader of the strike.
It was adapted for the stage in 2011, and originally produced on Broadway by Disney Theatrical Productions the following year. It was nominated for eight Tony Awards, winning Best Choreography and Best Original Score.
Because of the high-octane demands of the musical, Globe LIVE established Training Ground, a series of sessions where the chosen “Newsies” actors will undergo training in voice, dance and acting.
The local cast and producers of ‘Newsies,’ which is a film adapted for the stage in 2011, and originally produced on Broadway by Disney Theatrical Productions the following year.
“We need our actors to be triple-threats, so instead of the usual auditions and rehearsals, Training Ground allows us to maximize their potential before going to actual rehearsals. This includes voice, acting, gymnastics and dance lessons in ballet, hip-hop, tap, jazz, and more,” shares Caliro.
He adds, “There is so much talent in the Philippines, and with proper training, we can elevate our skills to be world-class. It is also an opportunity for the cast to hone their skills at no cost with the best trainers in the country.”
Fans of the film and musical (called Fansies) can watch webisodes of Training Ground to get behind the scenes and know more about the cast.
“Globe and Disney’s partnership is a great match, because both companies are known for capturing the hearts of its customers and viewers,” Caliro ends. “We hope this is just the beginning of many more wonderful productions with Disney Theatrical.”
Globe LIVE’s “Newsies” will have a month-long run during the weekends of July from July 7 until July 30. Tickets are available now at https://www.ticketworld.com.ph.
