Seize the Day with Newsies! at the Porthouse Theatre

Just like before a big game, theater enthusiasts pack up the portable grill and tailgate on the grounds of the Blossom Music Center for Porthouse Theatre’s main event. “People come as early as 5 p.m. for a 8 p.m. show,” explains producing artistic director Terri Kent. Kent State University’s summer professional theater group performs Newsies! as its grand musical finale to its three-show season July 27-Aug. 13. The family-friendly Disney story of 1899 newsboys who strike in New York City and end up winning against corporate newspapers still resonates. “It’s a great story that’s based in history and its [lessons] are so important — especially now,” says Kent. With high-energy dance numbers, finding the right cast to master those tricky moves was important, adds Kent. “Every young actor wants to do this show right now,” she says. “[My choreographer said,] ’For the first time, I have so many good people, I don’t know who to choose.’ ” 3143 O’Neil Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-672-3884, kent.edu/porthouse