Of all of the Disney movies to be turned into a stage production, Newsies is an interesting choice. The 1992 film wasn’t exactly a hit though it has built a cult following, and without the big blockbuster connection to draw people in on the name alone, it can be a hard sell at first. I wasn’t sure what to expect going in to Tuesday night’s performance. Being Disney I expected a decent show with great production values. What we got absolutely blew me away.

Everything about the show is incredible. A spectacular steel grid set utilizing digital screens to recreate New York City from over a century ago. The choreography is breathtaking as the young actors flip and twirl around the stage.

The show (and original film) are inspired by the events of the 1899 Newsboy strike in New York City. After Joseph Pulitzer raises the price of newspapers for the Newsies – working kids many of which are homeless – they fight back. Lead by Jack Kelly, the go on strike.

The show hinges on its lead character. Played by Christian Bale in the film and Jeremy Jordan (Smash, Supergirl) in the original Broadway cast, Jack Kelly is portrayed by Joey Barreiro in the touring production. Barreiro is a phenomenal talent whose charisma is palpable from stage. That is a vital part of the casting, you have to believe that Kelly would be able to convince the fellow newsies to strike. He’s charming, engaging, handsome and a hell of a singer and dancer.

That description does fit most of the cast of Newsies. The paper boys themselves are all younger, good looking and at times gravity defying. In addition to the boys, Morgan Keene as local reporter Katherine, Aisha de Haas’ amazing portrayal of Medda Larkin and Steve Blanchard’s Joseph Pulitzer are all memorable. Each cast member is clearly having a great time and that translates into the feelings the audience has watching.

If you were unsure of buying tickets to Newsies – trust in me that it is absolutely worth checking out. Calgary is at times a fickle audience and every single person stood for a lengthy standing ovation during bows – a sign of just how great the show is.