Did you enjoy the performances of our local youth in their recent production of “Newsies, Jr?” You may wonder where these young thespians found their inspiration to fulfill their roles.
They have Hernando Sun Publisher, Rocco Maglio, to thank as he was instrumental in gifting them a lived experience as a suffering newsboy.
Instead of the normal cost of $20 per bundle, he increased the newspaper cost to $70 per bundle effectively reducing the profit margin for these young newsies.
“It wasn’t just to help the kids, my vacation isn’t going to pay for itself,” Maglio told Not the Sun.
How did they get so good on those dance numbers? Maglio awarded them stale bread and tap water if they performed “Seize the Day” without any mistakes.
“I’m just so appreciative of everything Mr. Maglio has done for us,” said performer Tiny Tim.
“He even let me dance with my limp.”
You can still catch “Newsies, Jr.” through July 27 at Stage West Playhouse. Go to www.stagewestplayhouse.org