July 10–26, 2026 @ Knoxville Children's Theatre
Knoxville Children’s Theatre, in partnership with the Clayton Foundation, presents a production of "Newsies JR." The play is performed fromJuly 10through the 26,with showtimes onThursdays and Fridays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.
The production takes place in Knoxville Children’s Theatre’snew location at 747 World’s Fair Park.
Free onsite parking is provided.
"Disney’s Newsies JR."is a 60-minute version of the 2012 Broadway musical, based on the 1992 film. Inspired by the rousing true story of newsboys in turn-of-the-century New York City, "Newsies JR." features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein. When powerful newspaper publishers raise prices at the newsboys’ expense, the charismatic Jack Kelly rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions. Together, the newsies learn that they are stronger united and create a movement to fight for what’s right.
The production features 27 young actors, ages 10 to 18. The cast includes Leiland Potter as Jack Kelly, Grace Templeton as Katherine Plumber, Benjamin Ward as Crutchieand Olivia Birkbeck as Les. Also joining them are KCT veterans Tessa Arwe, Lorelai Bailey, Madisyn Beckman, Mason Cox, Caedmon Gifford, Maggie Ingle, Harper Knight, Rosalie Linnabary, Michelle Phelps, Beckham Read, Delaney Rickman, Brooklyn Rudacille, Gabi Ryerson, Auden Tatlerand Grayson Wright. Making their KCT debut are Mia Beeler, Sawyer Foust, Miana Hunt, Sawyer Jennings, Dansten Ashley Nichols, Santana Profenno, Jaden Shayand Catherine Sherrod.
The play is directed by KCT Director of Education, Taylor Wingate. The scenic design is led by Zowie Cook Aspen and assisted by Natalie Graves and Jennifer Helbig. Persie Cunningham serves as costume designer and assisted by Scarlett Cooper and Ella Gilreath. The props are designed by Lyric Bledsoe and assisted by Gabreille Schneider, Lucille Childres, and Jennifer Helbig. Carter Case serves as the lighting designer and is assisted by Willow Ray. The play is stage managed by Lyric Westerfield and assistant stage managed by Eiley Rickman.
KCT is East Tennessee’s leading producer of plays for children and families.
Category: Theatre