Broadway professional Adam Kaplan shared his expertise with West Branch High School students preparing to present “Newsies” as the spring musical. (Submitted photo)

BELOIT — Students at West Branch High School recently had a unique opportunity to learn from a Broadway professional when Adam Kaplan visited to lead a special workshop with the school’s cast of Newsies The Broadway Musical.

Kaplan, a seasoned performer with credits spanning Broadway, national tours, television, and film, worked closely with students on character development, vocal performance, and the demanding choreography that makes Newsies a standout production. Cast members described the experience as both inspiring and eye-opening, gaining firsthand insight into the level of discipline and storytelling required in professional theatre.

Kaplan’s connection to Newsies made the visit especially meaningful. He made his Broadway debut in Disney’s Newsies in 2013, where he performed multiple roles and served as the understudy for the lead character, Jack Kelly. He had the opportunity to perform as Jack in 40 of his 600 performances. His experience in the physically demanding production allowed him to offer practical advice to students tackling the same show.

A native of Westport, Connecticut, Kaplan earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Theatre from Elon University before quickly launching his professional career. Shortly after graduating, he joined the Broadway company of Newsies, an achievement many performers spend years pursuing.

Since then, Kaplan has built an impressive resume as an actor, singer, and dancer. He starred as Charlie Price in the first national tour of Kinky Boots, a Tony Award-winning musical featuring music by Cyndi Lauper. His performance showcased his vocal strength and ability to lead a major touring production.

Kaplan later returned to Broadway in a leading role as Calogero in A Bronx Tale, a musical directed by Academy Award winner Robert De Niro and Tony Award winner Jerry Zaks. His additional stage credits include performances with the New York Philharmonic in Show Boat, as well as numerous regional theatre productions.

Beyond the stage, Kaplan has expanded into on-screen work, appearing in television series such as “The Big Leap” and “Elsbeth,” as well as the film “Somewhere in Queens.”

During his time at West Branch, Kaplan emphasized the importance of perseverance, training, and collaboration. He encouraged students to embrace both the technical and emotional aspects of performance, noting that success in theatre comes from consistent effort and a willingness to grow. During a question and answer session, one of the students asked what his message to the word would be. He eloquently talked about the importance of art and the theme and message of Newsies. He said, “Art brings people together, so keep making art.”

Director, Krista Clay, and assistant director/choreographer, Tessa Murphy, both agreed that this was a once in a lifetime opportunity for the directors, cast and crew. Clay stated, “Not only did the kids gain immeasurable knowledge, we as the directors had the opportunity to reflect and transform and refine the craft which we have dedicated so much of our lives to. Learning first hand from a Broadway star has really solidified the vision we have for this show.”

The workshop left a lasting impression on the cast and directors alike. For students preparing to bring Newsies to life on their own stage, learning from someone who has performed the show at the highest level added a new layer of authenticity and excitement.

As opening night approaches on April 24, West Branch High School’s production carries not only the energy of its talented student performers, but also the influence and inspiration of a Broadway “newsie” who once stood in their shoes.