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Five years after it was last on the Hale Center’s stage, “Newsies” is making a triumphant return to the stage with a compelling and talent-filled performance at the theater in Sandy. The show has two rotating casts with the same performers every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and a new set every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Whatever night you decide to go, audiences are assured a great show as everything about this show from the stage design, to the lighting, to the skillful cast and crew there is something for everyone at the Hale Center Theatre’s production of “Newsies.”

The July 11 showing starred Matthew Sanguine in the central role of Jack Kelly, a 17-year-old newsboy from New York. From beginning to end his performance was full of confidence and charisma, he was fully bought into his role, which really added to the performance.

His execution of the song “Santa Fe” was awe inducing as he sang with great emotion. A stand out aspect of this particular song was how Sanguine could capture the crowd’s attention by not only his singing, but the pure emotion of pain and wistfulness that was evident through his expressions.

Hyrum Smith gave a comparable performance as Jack’s fellow Newsie, Davey. This player is always tricky as he has to stand out while still playing a believable role as one of their comrades. Smith nailed this distinction perfectly — when his character was first introduced into the show there was an obvious difference between him and the other newsies, but as the show goes on he seamlessly fits into their group with an almost tangible feeling of camaraderie.

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Smith also fit humbly into the role of being the brains behind the uprising while allowing Jack to shine as the leader. Both actors helped each other shine in their respective roles.

Rachel Martorana who played the role of up and coming journalist Katherine Plumber and Mack, who played Medda Larkin, both gave outstanding performances of their own. Martorana did a great job portraying the eagerness of the journalist and had great chemistry with her counterparts.

Both of their voices flowed together as they sang their duet of “Something to Believe In.” Mack, who normally performs during the Monday, Wednesday and Friday showing, wowed the audience in her performance of “That’s Rich.” She sang powerfully from start to finish and it was hard not to love her as a performer.

One of the best parts of the musical is the choreography and Adam Dyer, the choreographer for this production, did a great job maximizing the stage space. A highlight of the night was during the song “King of New York.” Throughout the number there was so much to watch as the dancers performed in sync with each other and swung from the bars. They utilized every bit of stage space in their choreography, even coming down the aisle at one point.

“Newsies” will be playing at the Hale Center Theatre in Sandy until Aug. 26. While the shows are selling out quickly there is still time to get tickets at http://HCT.org. This family-friendly show is a perfect addition to any summer plans, with elite talent each night and great music, this is a show no one will want to miss.

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