IGNITE THEATRE presents

S E A S O N 8

Director Mikayla Scramstad

Choreographer Kendra Craig Vocal Instructor Maria Bamford Stage Manager Kailey Peters

Music by Alan Menken Lyrics by Jack Feldman Book by Harvey Fierstein Based on the Disney Film Written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White Originally produced on Broadway by Disney Theatrical Productions

DISNEY’S NEWSIES is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International [MTI] All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI www.MTIShows.com

Ignite Theatre is the theatre department of Heritage Christian Online School A WORD FROM THE DIRECTOR

It has been an honor to work with this dedicated team to put on Newsies. A story of kids taking a stand for their rights against all odds. This musical, with all it’s fun dance numbers and upbeat music, is based on a real life strike that New York’s newsboys had so that they might be treated fairly after a devas- tating war. This show encapsulated that even though you’re young you can still change the world for the better. It’s a show full of grit, heart and the power of our youths’ voices. A truly inspiring tale that still speaks to what our minimum wage workers are still fighting for today, in a fast paced musical package.

MIKAYLA SCRAMSTAD Ignite Theatre Director PRODUCER’S MESSAGE

At long last, Ignite Theatre is proud to bring to you our recorded live streams of Disney’s NEWSIES, June 18th - 20th. Two years in the making and after a valiant attempt to film our production in a Low- er Mainland theatre this spring to no avail [due to continuing Covid restrictions], we were finally able to bring the theatre to us! Thank you to Wild Coast Productions for creating a box theatre in our gym where we rehearse all year long, which allows us to take you back in time to turn-of-the-century New York City, with Disney’s Newsies. This Tony-winning Broadway musical is the heart-warming tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy filled with dreams of a better life, who rises as the leader to a group of orphaned, runaway, and dirt poor “Newsies.” When publishing giants raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack empowers Newsies from across the city to strike against the oppressive and unfair conditions. Based on the re- al-life Newsboys Strike of 1899 in New York City, the strength of a unified community of young people inspires everyone to seize the day and fight for what’s right. It leaves you filled with hope that change can happen, as people stand together in the face of injustice.

Ignite Theatre, a dynamic group of Heritage Christian Online School students ranging from Grades 5-12, is committed to a high standard of excellence from the acting, singing, and choreography to the costumes, props, and impressive set design. Together, our stellar directing team teaches foundational performing arts concepts in a professional yet fun and engaging atmosphere, to stretch our students creatively while build- ing their confidence to communicate on stage.

Stop the presses! Newsies is a spectacle to behold with it’s explosive dance, emboldening harmonies, and newspapers galore while heralding the themes of courage, determination, grit, friendship, and the impor- tance of standing together for what’s right.

Our school, along with the Directing Team, Production Team, students and parents have worked hard on this year’s production of NEWSIES, it has truly been a labour of love for us to make this show come alive on the stage for you to view from your couch at home. This is our gift to you....enjoy!

ALLANA LEMKE Executive Producer DIRECTING TEAM PRODUCTION TEAM

MIKAYLA KATHY SCRAMSTAD WHITTOME Director Costume Design

LISA HACKET KENDRA CRAIG Marketing and Choreography Hospitality

MARIA BAMFORD WENDY KANDT Vocal Instructor Prop Design

LINDSAY DONALSON KAILEY PETERS Hair and Make-Up Stage Manager Design

ALLANA LEMKE Executive Producer

CLARKE & DIANNA PETERS Set Design and Construction WE ARE IGNITE THEATRE

Heritage Chrisitan Online School’s theatre department Ignite Theatre is the first of it’s kind among Distributed Learning Schools in the province. Located in the Fraser Valley, we are an enthusiastic group of 36 home educated students, ranging in Grades 5 to 12, who love to sing, act and dance. Our aim is developing students’ God-given talents to acheive excellence in the performing arts. Ignite Theatre is committed to strive toward a high level of acheivement in acting, singing, choreography, costumes and set design.

As a theatre group we pride ourselves in creating an environment where students are encouraged and motivated to develop their talent, skill and voice not only for a stage, but also for life. We believe in more than enter- tainment. We aim to have kids grow in character, becoming productive citizens who glorify God with their whole lives.

Through the generosity of local businesses, family and friends we have been able to grow and develop young talent for seasons in our beautiful valley. God’s grace has been evident in the relationships we’ve built with individuals and local partners, leading to years of successful performanc- es. We can’t think of a better way to say thank you to our communities in Langley, Abbotsford, Mission and Chilliwack than keep doing what we love and continue to share it with you each and every year. SONGS

ACT 1

Overture Santa Fe (Prologue) Jack and Crutchie Carrying the Banner Jack, Newsies, Nuns The Bottom Line Pulitzer, Seitz, Bunsen, Hannah That’s Rich Medda Never Planned on You / Don’t Come A-Knocking Jack, Katherine and Bowery Beauties The World Will Know Jack, Davey, Les and Newsies Watch What Happens Katherine Seize the Day Davey, Jack, Les and Newsies Santa Fe Jack

ACT 2

King of New York Davey, Les, Katherine and Newsies Watch What Happens (Reprise) Jack, Davey, Katherine and Les The Bottom Line (Reprise) Pulitzer, Seitz and Mayor Brooklyn’s Here Spot Conlon and Newsies Something to Believe In Jack and Katherine Seize the Day (Reprise) Newsies Once and for All Jack, Davey, Les, Katherine, Darcy, Bill and Newsies Finale Company

604-858-8188 46070 Knight Road, Chilliwack, B.C. V2R 1B7 CAST (cast 1 / cast 2)

ADAM DONALDSON Les / Newsie, Goon

This is Adam’s third show with Ignite Theatre. His favorite production is Hamilton. Adam likes dancing, singing, playing video games, and also going outside. He is so happy to be able to be a part of the the- atre community and finally be performing Newsies. Adam thinks the sets have been a lot of fun to move around and go on. Adam would like to thank all of the teachers that helped him learn to sing, dance and act. Adam loves you all and wants you to enjoy the show.

ADI REITSMA Medda Larkin, Nun, Police Officer / Race

Adi has been performing in musicals for over ten years now and has loved every minute of it. She is thrilled to have worked on Newsies this year despite the pandemic. When not on stage, she can be found hiding in a blanket fort drawing, playing guitar, or disturbing the neigh- bours with her loud singing. She would like to thank her family for the countless rides out of town to rehearsal, and the directing team for their adaptability this year. She hopes you enjoy the show!

AMY PETERS Race / Morris Delancey, Nun, Darcy

Amy has been with Ignite Theatre for 8 years now, and has loved every minute of it. She has played so many different roles, but her top two favourites were Gertrude McFuzz in Seussical and Ella in R&H’s Cinderella. Amy would like to say a huge thank you to all her current and past directing team and crew for bringing her this far and helping her grow in her theatre experiences. Enjoy the show!

ANNIE ALLISON Hannah, Woman, Bowery Beauty, Scab, Newsie / Specs, Bowery Beauty

This is Annie’s third year with Ignite Theatre, with her favorite perfor- mance being Peter Pan in which she played the Lost Boy, Slightly. Annie is so happy to finally be able to put on Newsies after 2 years of work. In her free time, she loves to read, crochet, play with her dog and hang out with her brother, Drew, who is also her best friend. Enjoy the show! ATLEY FRIESEN Bunsen, Bowery Beauty, Scab, Newsie / Bowery Beauty, Newsie

Ayo!! This is Atley’s seventh year in theatre. Two of her favourite past shows include Aladdin and The Lion King. When she has free time she likes to SUP, hang with friends, listen to music, and eat pickles. Some of her favourite memories from over the years are eating grass flavoured jelly beans right before going onstage and taking selfies with other people’s phones while they weren’t looking. She would like to thank everyone who has helped so much over the past two years to make Newsies possible. :)

BEN VAN BIERT Newsie, Goon, Brooklyn Newsie / Newsie, Cam- era Man, Brooklyn Newsie

Ben loves being a part of Ignite Theatre! Ben spends a lot of his free time reading or building with Lego. He has spent most of his time re- cently writing a book that he hopes to make into a movie when he is older. He has really enjoyed getting to know his castmates and hopes you enjoy the show.

BETHANY FREEBAIRNTommy Boy / Mush

Bethany is thrilled to be part of Newsies in this, her debut appear- ance! She has especially enjoyed the extra challenge of playing different characters in two different casts. In her spare time Bethany loves to pursue all things ART, including drawing, painting, singing and reading.

BIANCA WILDERVANCK Nun, Bowery Beauty, Goon, Brooklyn Newsie / Tommy Boy

Bianca is very excited to be performing in her fifth show! She loves singing, acting, playing basketball, and spending time with friends and her dog. Bianca really enjoyed the chance to learn how to tap dance. She also loves how her family now knows all the words to ev- ery Newsie song and likes to sing along! She would like to say thanks to everyone who worked to put this play together. She hopes you will enjoy it as much as they enjoy performing it. BRAIDEN ZYLSTRA Newsie, Goon / Les

This is Braiden’s first year with Ignite Theatre and he is enjoying it a lot. He is 11 years old. In his free time he likes to ride dirt bikes and quads. He also likes spending time with his sister’s horse out back. On rainy days he likes to read and play Xbox.

CADE BRUNESKI Mush / Wiesel

Cade is a natural born performer; his favorite part of acting is con- necting with the audience through laughter and surprise. Newsies is his first production. Cade enjoys sports and staying active; he especially loves snowball fights in the winter. As a social guy, he values relationships and hangs out with friends as much as possible. In addition to acting, Cade expresses his creativity through graphic design, coding, playing guitar, and singing.

CHLOE DANEK Buttons, Nunzio / Buttons

This is Chloe’s first year performing for Ignite Theatre; she is hyped! She loves her character Buttons because he’s one feisty news boy. She likes showing off her tap skills too! Chloe has a soft spot for animals; she has a dorky cat at home and she occasionally hops on a horse. Chloe enjoys reading way too much! She would like to thank the amazing directors and helpers who have helped her achieve confidence and a passion for acting. Last year’s performance was canceled, but the show must go on!

DARIEN REITSMA Jack Kelly / Teddy Roosevelt, Goon, Brooklyn Newsie

Darien has been performing with Ignite Theatre for the past 8 years. His favorite role was Jean-Michael in R&H’s Cinderella. He loves to play hockey and hang out with friends. He wishes to thank his family, directors and peers that have helped him become a better actor and person. DEZAMYA (MYA) BIELMANN Stage Manager, Newsie / Medda Larkin, Newsie

Mya loves to be a part of the Newsie musical. Mya is naturally shy so Miss Medda Larkin is a fun character for her to play. Mya loves trying new things so this experience challenged and changed her. Mya loves signing, researching world issues, planning big out-of-the-box ideas and spending time with friends in her freetime. Mya would like to thank her directing team for investing their time and talent in her! Enjoy the show!

DREW ALLISON Joseph Pulitzer, Goon / Jack Kelly

Drew loves Ignite Theatre and has had an amazing time working for the past year on Newsies. He lives with his incredible family and enjoys reading epic fantasy novels, as well as trying - and failing - to write his own. He’s gotten to watch his fellow actors grow as the show progressed and knows that you will love seeing their efforts first hand. Drew thanks all the parents and directors who put so much work into making this production possible. Enjoy the show!

EMILY PETERS Oscar Delancey, Darcy / Henry, Bowery Beauty

Emily has been in theatre for 8 years now and she still loves it. She loves theatre because it pushes her to be what she never thought she could. She also loves all of the people that work alongside her. The thing she loves the most about this year is all of the people and the new directors. She would like to thank the directors for all their hard work and joyful attitudes. They hope you like the show :)

FRITS WILDERVANCK Newsie, Goon / Jo Jo

Frits is very excited to be performing in Disney’s Newsies this year. Two years ago he performed in Lighthouse Theatre’s Peter Pan as Michael. Frits enjoyed learning how to tap and he can’t wait to show his parents what he’s learned. He would like to thank everyone for their hard work. Enjoy the show! JESSICA ZYLSTRA Albert / Nun, Hannah, Woman, Bowery Beau- ty, Scab, Newsie

This is Jessica’s second year with Ignite Theatre. Sadly, Covid-19 kept Ignite Theatre from performing last year, so she is thrilled to be a part of Newsies again this year! Jessica loves being a part of the Ignite Theatre family, and is so thankful for all the directors and parents who have put so much work into this production! In Jessica’s free time she loves to ride her horse, read, bake, or spend time with her friends!

KAITLYN STAHL Elmer / Snyder, Bowery Beauty, Newsie

This is Kaitlyn’s fourth year with Ignite Theatre. She is thrilled to be a part of bringing Newsies to the stage. Kaitlyn performed with Ignite in R&H’s Cinderella and Peter Pan; she loves her amazing theatre family she has shared these adventures with. Kaitlyn can often be found curled up with a cup of tea and either reading a book or with a notebook full of her own writing. She would like to thank all the amazing volunteers who have poured many hours into our produc- tion. Enjoy the show!

KINLEY FRIESEN Henry, Bowery Beauty / Bunsen, Bowery Beau- ty, Scab 3, Newsie

This is Kinley’s 7th year in musical theatre. Previous productions she’s performed in are My Son Pinocchio, The Lion King, James and the Giant Peach, Aladdin, Seussical, Little Women, and Newsies. Her favorite role was a Narrator in Aladdin. Kinley has also done back- ground acting since she was eleven and has acted in some short films for CPM over the past two years. She’d like to thank everyone who has helped out with the show this year and hopes you all enjoy the performance! KRISTEN KANDT Spot Conlon, Bowery Beauty, Newsie, Goon / Albert

Kristen has been in theatre for 8 years and has loved each one of them. Kristen’s special skill is being able to quote the entirety of Shrek the Musical; yes, the whole thing, even the songs. In her free time Kristen loves to scream along to the music in her car, drink way too much tea and coffee, and procrastinate doing her homework. She wants to thank everyone who supported Ignite this year, as well as her family and friends!

KRISTIN LOEWEN Katherine Plumber / Bowery Beauty, Newsie, Goon

Kristin is excited to have the opportunity to play the role of Katherine Plumber in this year’s production of Newsies! This is Kristin’s sixth year with Ignite Theatre and has performed in shows such as Peter Pan and R&H’s Cinderella. Outside of theatre, she enjoys singing, playing piano, baking and going on long drives with loud music. Kris- tin would like to thank her directors, parents and fellow cast-mates who have helped bring Newsies to life.

LAUREN BROWN Nun, Seitz, Bowery Beauty, Scab, Newsie / Finch, Bowery Beauty

Lauren is so excited to finally be bringing Ignite’s production of Newsies to the stage! Previously, Lauren has been involved in numerous years of dance, ranging in genres, as well as choir and piano. She has been a part of musical theatre for three years, with the performance of Peter Pan, and now, Newsies. Lauren would love to thank all those who contributed to this year’s production and to the audience for supporting the cast and crew. MARSHALL BROWN Crutchie / Romeo

Marshall loves acting. Two of his favourite things about theatre are learning choreography and getting to know more of the people in the program. In his spare time, he enjoys making videos on Final Cut Pro X. Marshall thinks that quadding, the outdoors, and snowboarding are the most fun things to do. Flying as Peter Pan will always be his most favourite stage memory.

MATTHIAS PAP Jo Jo / Mr. Jacobi, Newsie, Goon

This is Matthias’ first official performance in the theatre. Just like his character, Matthias has a colorful past; he has lived in multiple countries, slept in awkward places and learned to be flexible. Jo Jo’s character fits him perfectly since he also has always wanted to be the best! A gold watch would look good on him. MICA FRIESEN Bowery Beauty, Newsie, Goon / Seitz, Bowery Beauty, Scab, Newsie

This is Mica’s seventh year in musical theatre and she is very excited to do the show Newsies! She has previously played the roles of Bagheera in The Jungle Book, Annie in Pirates Past Noon, a Jungle Creature in Seussical, and now, Seitz in Newsies! In her free time Mica enjoys reading, drawing, and paddle boarding with her family. Since she grew up in a very musical family, she also plays piano, ukulele, and some guitar. Hope you enjoy the show!

MICAH LEMKE Romeo / Crutchie

This is Micah’s fifth year in Ignite Theatre. He loves everything about musical theatre, including seeing his friends at rehearsal during Covid; he especially likes acting. In the winter, he really enjoys spending his time snowboarding. He is able to complete 360s and loves landing new jumps. Micah would like to thank the amazing, hard-working Ignite Theatre directing team for making the show, Disney’s Newsies, possible.

MICHAEL HACKETT Davey / Joseph Pulitzer, Goon

Michael has been a part of Ignite Theatre for 8 years and loves the chance to get to sing in front of an audience. In his spare time he enjoys spending time with friends and giving himself insulin. He is a proud diabetic, and sometimes uses it as an excuse. He is happy to be able to put on Newsies for you guys!

MIKIAH VAN BIERT Bowery Beauty, Newsie, Goon / Katherine Plumber

Mikiah is ecstatic to have the opportunity to be a part of her all-time favourite musical and get to portray her favourite character this year. Mikiah is 16 years old and has been involved in music since she was four. She is absolutely thrilled to be performing alongside her castmates this year. Thank you to everyone who has come to watch the show, and I hope you enjoy it! NATHANIEL (NATE) VAN BIERT Wiesel, Mr. Jacobi, Teddy Roosevelt / Stage Manager, Mayor, Newsie, Goon

Nate loves doing theater! This is his third year with Ignite Theater; he thinks being a part of this community is amazing! Nate thinks it’s so cool to see lines on a paper turn into a show. When Nate’s not doing theater, he’s out playing soccer with his team. Please have a seat and enjoy the show!

NOAH HACKETT Newsie, Goon, Brooklyn Newsie / Nunzio, Police Officer/Guard, Newsie, Brooklyn Newsie

Noah has been on stage with Ignite Theatre for Rodgers and Ham- merstein’s Cinderella, Peter Pan and now, Disney’s Newsies. He enjoys a variety of activities in his free time, including gaming, swim- ming, and riding his scooter. Noah would like to thank all his teachers for their efforts this year.

NOЁL LEMKE Finch, Bowery Beauty / Oscar Delancey, Bill

Noël is very excited to be performing in this year’s production of Disney’s Newsies! This will mark her eighth year with Ignite Theatre. This year she has learned that it’s all about working as a team and building one another up. In her free time, Noël enjoys cooking for her family and trying new recipes, napping, taking her dogs out for walks and scaring her brother half to death. She would like to thank God for making this all possible. Glory to Him. Enjoy the show.

PAYTEN WHITTOME Morris Delancey, Bill / Davey

Payten has been involved in musical theatre for eight years. Some of her favourite past roles include Annie (Annie), Jane Banks (Mary Poppins), and Lumière (Beauty and the Beast). When she’s not busy with musical theatre, Payten enjoys art, piano, and hiking. Playing the role of Davey this year sometimes put Payten out of her comfort zone; it was a challenge that she enjoyed and it helped her grow as an actress. Payten would like to thank her directors for all they did to make this show come to life. SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS RUTHIE BIELMANN Mayor, Bowery Beauty, Guard, Newsie / Bowery Beauty, Newsie

Ruthie has been with Ignite Theatre for two years now and loves it. The first day of last year she remembers sitting in a little circle and having other kids saying, “Come on guys! This is a family. We sit together! Don’t be shy!” In her free time Ruthie enjoys being outside. She would like to thank everyone for making this not only a theatre group but a family! Enjoy the Show!

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Ignite Theatre would like to acknowledge and express our sincere ap- preciation to all our parents, family members and volunteers who gave hundreds of hours working on sets, props, costumes and promotion, especially in this unique year, they helped to make Newsies a reality in a very challenging time.

We want to give a special thank you to the following individuals and orga- nizations for their generous contributions and whose talent helped make this another sucessful production: Mill Lake Church Desada Daigle Alicia Lowes & Office Staff Kari Opper Wild Coast Productions Ryan Ehlert, Josh & Kam Individuals Siobhan D’Souza Bergen Video Production Danielle Hackett Nelson Bergen Zac’s Grandma Stage Combat instructor Jesse Peters Stephen Elcheshen Cherie Day Dialect Instructor Natalia Lemke Ryan Scramstad Elias Lemke HCOS Learning Groups Christine Loewen And to all the great parents Andria Lengkeek who helped build a theatre in Dawn Denham a gymnasium! Serena Hazel There are countless opportunities to volunteer and support Ignite The- atre! If you’re interested in helping young people experience acting, sing- ing and choreography or want to become a supporter or simply desire more information please visit ignitetheatre.ca or email us at: [email protected] Ignite Theatre as a part of Heritage Christian Online School is a regis- tered charitible organization in Canada through Kelowna Christian Centre Society. Any donation recieved over $10 will be issued a tax receipt. We are grateful for the generous support of organizations and individuals who contributed to Ignite Theatre and this years production. SOPHIE BOUCHARD Specs, Bowery Beauty / Spot Conlon, Nun, Bowery Beauty, Newsie, Goon

Sophie is 12 years old and has been with Ignite Theatre since Peter Pan in 2019. A few of her hobbies are gymnastics, art, singing, and hanging out with friends. Something she has learned this year was to always persevere. Her roles have been a great opportunity to expand Sophie’s acting abilities and push her out of her comfort zone. She would like to thank her directors and all the parents who have put in so much work and have made this production possible. Enjoy the show!

SPENCER DANEK Snyder, Newsie / Elmer

Spencer is very eager to perform for you this year, as COVID pro- hibited him from acting last year. He loves to play Elmer, as Elmer is a fun-loving, comedic character. Thanks to two years of rehearsal, Spencer hopes to put on the very best show possible. In his free time, Spencer likes to read, ride his bike, love his cat, and play video games. Spencer would like to thank all the people who have put time and effort into this show for you.

ZAC OLOFSON Camera Man, Newsie, Brooklyn Newsie / Newsie, Goon, Brooklyn Newsie

This is Zac’s first year with Ignite Theatre. His favourite thing about theatre was getting to learn to tap dance. During Zac’s spare time, he’ll either be building with Lego, reading a book or playing outside. Zac would like to thank all the staff for making this a fun year. He hopes you enjoy the show!