The theater program will present its production of “Newsies JR.” this Friday and Saturday at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium. 

Unlike previous productions, “Newsies JR.” features a larger set and more choreography, requiring months of preparation from the cast and crew. 

Rehearsals began in January following the release of the cast list first, but senior Kacie Cox, the production’s scenic designer, began working on the set weeks earlier. Cox, who has previously designed for the department, was tasked with constructing a three-story set..

“The main structure of the set is the largest set to scale we have done so far,” Cox said.  “The set is twelve feet tall.” 

The musical’s choreography, a central focus of the production, is led by [grade] and student choreographer Andrew Comport. Working closely with directors and cast members, Comport has helped create and teach a series of complex dance numbers.

“The most challenging part of being the student choreographer was transferring the dances from my head to the big stage,” Comport said.

For freshman Molly Mullins, “Newsies JR.” marks her first appearance in a Rock Hill musical. She plays the role of Katherine Plumber in the upcoming production, a character inspired by one of the first female journalists of her time. 

“I love being Katherine so much as she is such a fun character to bring to life,” Mullins said.

The head director of the production is theater teacher Kirsten King, who has overseen all aspects of the show, from staging to set design. “Newsies JR.” is the final mainstage production of the school year.

“The musical is full of songs that are straight bangers that are really fun with a positive message,” King said. 

Tickets are available to purchase on the theater department’s website.