Seventy‑three students transformed the stage over four sold‑out performances of the Philelectic Society’s spring production of Disney’s Newsies, welcoming nearly 800 guests each night. From powerhouse vocals to kinetic dance numbers, the cast radiated an energy so immersive that several attendees confessed they “forgot they were watching a high school production.”

Patrick Cragin ’06 returned to Jesuit this year as director, energizing the Phils with his hands-on approach to musical theatre, which blends vocal technique, choreography, and technical design. The creative team included technical director DJ Galiano ’08, vocal music director Matthew Wolff ’13, sound designer David Rigamer ’06, maestro Jason Giaconne, costume designer Judy Beaman, assistant director senior Sophie Sigur from Mount Carmel, and choreographers Gabrielle Mauro and Arianna D’Antonio.

Months ago, Cragin’s senior speech class studied Twelve Angry Men, memorizing lines and exploring public speaking styles, effective communication, and audience engagement. They capped the project with a free public performance.

The spring production showcased a vibrant spectrum of talent: junior Keshaun Tervalon commanded the stage as Jack Kelly with resonant vocals that anchored every number, while Dominican junior Leah Gilmore sparkled as Katherine Plumber with razor‑sharp wit and poise. Freshman Ford Dieth infused Crutchie with heartfelt warmth, and guest performers sixth-grader Nathan Schwab (Christian Brothers) and incoming Blue Jay seventh-grader Luc Soileau (St. Phillip) added charm as Les.

Cragin praised the cast, crew, and creative team, “You have seized this moment with everything you have. The countless hours you’ve poured into this production—learning music, perfecting choreography, assembling and moving this beast of a set, crafting costumes, running cues—have built something truly extraordinary. It has been an honor to witness your dedication, passion, and belief. I could not be prouder to stand alongside you in bringing Newsies to life.

Newsies showcased Jesuit’s flourishing theatre program, celebrating the talents of Blue Jays and visiting students from around New Orleans.

Phils alumni and theatre professionals from New Orleans and beyond turned out in force, lending their enthusiasm to the production. Rich Arnold ’98, Michael Hannemann ’95, and Vanessa Van Vrancken (Phils ’95) organized a Phils alumni reunion to support today’s Blue Jays and to reminisce about their days onstage. Their efforts to unite alumni from different generations struck a chord as they gathered with current students in a circle moments before the performance. The final performance saw a group of over 50 alumni Phils. Arnold mentions, “More than fifty Phils alumni joined our first ‘Phriends of the Phils’ reunion, many traveling from out of town. Gathering with the cast before curtain brought back fond memories, and Saturday night’s performance exceeded our expectations, making us ‘old pholks’ proud.”

Cragin also thanked the audience, “Thank you for being here, for supporting these young artists, and for sharing in this experience with us. We hope you leave tonight not only entertained, but inspired. I hope this production reminds you of the power of standing together, raising your voice, and never backing down from the moment that’s calling you forward.”

After the spring production of Newsies injected fresh energy into campus, the Philelectic Society added Broadway on Banks to its summer lineup—a one-week musical theatre camp for rising sixth through eighth- grade boys and girls that requires no prior experience. Participants will train in acting, singing, and dance under the direction of Cragin himself with current Phils serving as counselors and teachers and offering mentorship and hands-on guidance throughout the week. Space is limited, so families are encouraged to register early to secure their place in the spotlight.