The OHS winter musical is around the corner once again, and tryouts are coming up soon. Ever since the theater department announced “Newsies” as this year’s musical, students have been eager to get started. 

The story is about a group of young paper boys living in New York City trying to make money. When the publisher of the newspaper raises the prices, the “Newsies” go on strike to get themselves on the front page. Choral Director Ms. Paula Asmus said, “There seems to be lots of interest in the musical after “Shrek” and the pops concert went so well last year. We wanted a show with a well known title as well.”

 With the success of “Shrek” last year it has inspired more OHS students to give this fine art a try. Director Erik Eitrheim said, “‘Newsies’ is a Disney movie musical, and these shows always draw more attention and a larger audience than almost any other musical.” Additional information for students that would like to try out can be found in the audition packets out in front of Mr. Eitrhiem’s room 234

Musical tryouts are on Dec. 11-12 from 3 p.m.-5 p.m. Ms. Asmus said, “Students auditioning seem to be very excited about the musical. Especially because it is the first show in our new space.” This will be the first musical in the new auditorium so it is expected that the crowd will be pretty large.

Cast members are excited for the new story and musical style that “Newsies” will bring. Senior Reuel Borkenhagen, Farquaad in last year’s musical, said, “I am really looking forward to all of the music within the show. There’s a bunch of interesting parts to cast as well.” The “Newsies” has a variety of roles that look to provide a lot of fun for the cast.  Mr. Eitrheim said, “I imagine tickets for this show this year will go quickly.”

The theater department is eager to begin preparations for the musical. Tryouts are on Dec. 11-12 at 3 p.m. in the auditorium. Callbacks will then take place on Dec. 14 at 3 p.m. as well.