‘Joyful Noise’ Star Jeremy Jordan to Star in ‘Newsies’ on Broadway

“Joyful Noise” star Jeremy Jordan has been announced as the star of the upcoming Broadway production of “Newsies,” the stage adaptation of the 1992 Disney film of the same name. Friday’s announcement comes during a busy week for Jordan, as “Joyful Noise,” a musical film also starring Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton, debuted the same day.

Jordon received his first major recognition when he starred as Tony in the 2009 Broadway revival of “West Side Story.” He has also acted in small film and television roles, and his Broadway experience is rounded out by work in “Rock of Ages” in 2009, as well as playing Clyde Barrow late last year in “Bonnie & Clyde.”

The original Disney film “Newsies” starred Christian Bale, David Moscow and Bill Pullman, along with smaller roles by Robert Duvall and Ann-Margret. It is based on the true story of a newsboys strike in New York City that occurred in 1899. The score was provided by Disney collaborator Alan Menken, who also wrote new pieces for the stage performance. Menken is also known for his work on the scores of “Beauty and the Beast” and “Aladdin.” Jack Feldman wrote the lyrics for the songs (both in the film and the musical), and Harvey Fierstein wrote the book.

The stage musical was performed during September and October last year at the Paper Mill Playhouse in New Jersey, where Jordan also played the part of Jack Kelly, the same role he will play in the upcoming version. That version is set to open on Broadway at the Nederlander Theatre on March 15 and run for 101 performances. The full cast has not yet been announced.

“Joyful Noise” is a musical about a small-town choir in Georgia struggling to find a leader as they compete in various choir competitions. The film also features Kris Kristofferson, Courtney B. Vance, Francis Jue and Keke Palmer as Jordan’s love interest.