NCHS Senior Ella Radke, daughter of Kevin and Kristin Radke, will take the stage in the musical performance of “Newsies” as “Racetrack” on April 10 through the 13th, with show times of 7 pm for Thursday through Saturday and 2pm on Sunday. Tickets will be available from cast members beginning February 17 and then in the school offices after that.
What musicals have you been in at NCHS and what characters/roles did you play?
I have been involved in “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” as an ensemble member, “White Christmas” as an ensemble member, “Beauty and the Beast” as an ensemble member, “Mamma Mia” as Becky, “Oklahoma” as Ado Annie, and “Six” as Katherine Howard.
What was your favorite musical and why?
My favorite musical that I was involved in was Oklahoma because I had a lead role and was able to have a lot of fun.
What scene in Newsies is your favorite and why? (This does not have to be a scene you are in)
My favorite scene in “Newsies” is the “King of New York” scene because we get to tap dance.
What are three things being in the musical have taught you? and how have you learned these?
Being involved in musical has helped build my confidence, work ethic, and leadership skills by allowing me to be myself and work hard for the roles I have received.
What are two pieces of advice you would give young people who want to start performing in musicals at NCHS?
The best advice I can give to aspiring musical members is to never be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Another piece of advice would be to try out for that role, even if you might not get it.
What qualities do you see exemplified in the adults who help put on this show that you will take with you as you leave NCHS and how do they demonstrate these qualities?
The adults I am surrounded with at musical exemplify hard work and dedication. I will take these traits with me in my next chapter of life by always giving everything in me to succeed.
What about Newsies is different from other musicals you have been in?
“Newsies” is different from my previous musicals because I play the role of a boy character and sing lower than usual.
What will you miss the most once the final curtain closes on your NCHS musical career?
Musical has been a very important part of my life for a long time. When the final curtain closes, I will be sad to be done, but also have a sense of fulfillment.
