Interview: Chicago Native Anthony Norman Discusses Life on NEWSIES National Tour

Extra! Extra! Read all about it! Broadway's favorite newsboys are dancing their way into the heart of the Windy City. With music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman, and book by Harvey Fierstein, Newsies has become a popular success across North America (not to mention it has a few Tony Awards in its back pocket). Cast member and Chicago native, Anthony Norman, discusses being part of a national tour and the magic of this beloved story.

This tour is bringing a Tony Award-winning Broadway smash to Chicago. Audiences here are probably most familiar with the 1992 Disney movie. What would you say to those who are walking into the theater with only that knowledge (or in many cases, no knowledge) about this show?
Just be ready to have your mind blown and your heart and gut wrenched. The choreography is the biggest spectacle but the story is just as amazing. It's based on true events and follows a group of boys who fought tirelessly for their rights. It really makes you think about the things we take for granted so easily. Basically, be ready for an incredible score, some incredible dancing, and to be touched by this wonderful story.

With such sensational music and dancing, do you have a favorite song?
Definitely "King of New York." I don't want to spoil, but I will say that it has some serious tap and tapping is my favorite type of dance.

This is a pretty big deal for you! You just recently graduated from Millikin University in 2015, right? Now you're on a national tour. What's this whole experience like?
It's overwhelming in the best way possible! Senior year of college I was going back and forth from school to Chicago auditioning. I met tons of people, booked a few local shows, and found a phenomenal talent agency. Then, I auditioned in New York for the tour, did some callbacks, and landed my first equity Broadway gig. It didn't hit me until way later when I was listening to the original cast recording and thought, "Oh my gosh, I sing this every night on stage." It's surreal.

What's a typical day on a national tour like?
Funny enough, I've really become accustomed to living on a tour. I'm someone that just loves to go-go-go, so this is pretty ideal for me. I actually get frustrated when there's a break or a pause from routine.

As for a typical day? I usually wake up around 8am, get my clothes ready for the day, head to the gym, head to rehearsal, either eat and relax or eat and rush--depending on how far the hotel is from the theater--do the show and go to bed. Eat. Gym. Eat. Show. Go to bed. That's the gist of it. I savor the chances I get to explore some of the cool locations we visit though. I especially love finding different coffee shops and tasting their cold brews. That's a thing of mine.

Since you call Chicago home, you've already performed at some well-known theaters like Drury Lane and Porchlight. How did you get started with all of this?
Well, I honestly started performing in high school. My sister had done theater and I was busy playing sports, but I decided to try out for an Arthur Miller play. I kept doing plays and musicals and realized it was something I was good at; I started doing solo cabaret shows at piano bars around the city too. All of this launched my passion. It makes me so excited to come perform in Chicago in front of friends, family, and those who've helped me along the way.

This is just the beginning of your career. Do you have a dream role?
Huck in Big River. Our director, Jeff Calhoun, actually directed the Deaf West revival. I played the character a few years ago, but I'm hoping that it goes back on Broadway or does a tour because it's an amazing role.

Let's talk about your character, Oscar Delancey. What's he like?
He was raised in a refuge--this horrible prison for children with horrible living conditions. He's kind of a henchman of sorts. He does what he's told, but he can't allow his emotions to get the best of him. I really like playing a villain. It's something new and exciting for me!

Last but not least, any projects on the horizon?
This winter, I'll be back at Drury Lane doing Gershwin's Crazy for You. I'm so CRAZY excited.

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See Anthony Norman and the rest of the 'newsies' at the Cadillac Palace Theatre from July 28 through August 7. Visit www.broadwayinchicago.com for more information.

Photo Credit: Margie Korshak Images

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