Soda City Studios 2026 Summer youth production
Seize the Day!
Join us for Soda City Theatre Company’s 2026 Summer Studio Production of
Disney’s Newsies Jr. — a high-energy, inspiring musical about courage, community, and standing up for what’s right.
Set against the backdrop of turn-of-the-century New York City, Newsies Jr. tells the story of young newsboys and girls who band together to make their voices heard. With thrilling music, powerful dance numbers, and unforgettable characters, this show is a perfect blend of history, heart, and hope.
What Makes Our Summer Studio Special?
Our Summer Studio Production is not a camp or a class — it’s a real theatre experience from auditions through closing night.
Every participant is guaranteed a role and will learn by actively rehearsing and performing under the guidance of experienced theatre professionals. Along the way, students focus on:
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Professionalism and work ethic
- Learning through hands-on experience
- Supporting one another and having fun
Our goal is for young performers to grow artistically and personally in a supportive, encouraging environment — while creating something truly special together.
Why Newsies Jr.?
Newsies Jr. is a bold, fast-paced musical packed with big dance numbers, memorable songs, and moments that inspire confidence and leadership.
This production features:
- Blind casting (traditional “boy” roles may be played by girls)
- Lots of movement and ensemble storytelling
- Opportunities for performers of all experience levels
- A focus on unity, perseverance, and finding your voice
Program Details
Who Can Enroll:
Ages 5–21 (open to all young people, including those with special abilities)
Auditions:
Week of June 1, 2026
Virtual auditions available for those with conflicts
Rehearsals:
- Some Mondays
- Tuesdays & Thursdays evenings
- Saturday or Sunday afternoons
- Weeknights end by 8:30 PM
- Increased rehearsals the week before opening
(Not every actor will be called to every rehearsal; schedules depend on roles.)
Performances:
July 23–26, 2026
(6 total performances)
Allowances will be made for vacations and camps during the rehearsal period. All participants must be available the week before opening.
Tuition & Enrollment
- $200 total tuition
- $50 non-refundable deposit to hold a spot
- Remaining $150 due before auditions (Non Refundable after casting for any reason)
- Payment plans available (ask for details)
- Family discounts available for 2+ children
- Needs-based scholarships available
Tuition Includes:
- 50+ hours of instruction and direction
- Cast t-shirt
- Script and music materials
- A full theatrical production experience — and a lot of fun!
Rehearsal snack cards available separately.
A True Community Effort
Soda City Theatre Company is a nonprofit organization, and our productions are powered by volunteers. Families are invited to help in many ways, including:
- Ushering and concessions
- Set building and painting
- Props and costumes
- Backstage and dressing room support
- Publicity and cast events
It is truly a team effort, and we look forward to meeting you and working with you this summer!
Ready to Seize the Day?
Enrollment is limited and fills quickly.
Be sure to use an email address you check regularly — that’s how we’ll share updates, schedules, and important information.
📧 Questions?
Everything You Need to Know
Production Title:
Newsies Jr.
Directed By:
Debra E. Leopard
Choreography By:
Christie Burgess
Music Direction By:
John Norris
Who Can Enroll:
Ages 5 - 21
Rehearsal Location:
Brookland United Methodist Church
541 Meeting St.
West Columbia, SC
Performance Location:
Brookland United Methodist Church
541 Meeting St.
West Columbia, SC
Ticket Information:
Coming Soon!
Performance Dates:
July 23, 24 @ 7:30pm
July 25, 26 @ 3:00pm and 7:30pm
(6 total performances)
Contact Us:
For inquiries, email us at artsdirector@sodacitytheatre.com
Soda City Studios Summer Youth Production Staff
Director Debra Leopard
Choreographer Christie Burgess
Music Director John Norris
With over 45 years of theatre experience, Debra E. Leopard is a true force in the world of performance and education. As an accomplished actress, director, and educator, Debra has directed more than 100 productions and performed in over 150 shows. Her extensive expertise includes professional voice-over work, improv performance, and even playwriting.
Debra holds a BFA in Acting and an MFA in Directing, with over 40 years dedicated to teaching at universities and modeling agencies. She’s also the founder of three successful children’s theatre programs in the Midlands, where she’s inspired countless young performers.
Passionate about every aspect of theatre—onstage and behind the scenes—Debra’s leadership promises to bring our Summer Youth Production to life in extraordinary ways.
Music Director John Norris
Choreographer Christie Burgess
Music Director John Norris
John is excited to join the Soda City Theatre Company for this summer’s production! With extensive experience as a music director and performer, his credits include Nunsense Jamboree, 9 to 5, Little Shop of Horrors, Hairspray, Gilligan‘s Island: The Musical, Oliver, The Diary of Adam & Eve, Footloose, Rock of Ages, The Addams Family, and Mary Poppins.
As an actor, John has appeared in productions such as Gilligan’s Island: The Musical (Alien), The King and I (Kralahome), Bull in a China Shop (Kramer), and The Diary of Adam & Eve (Serpent).
A graduate of Furman University and the University of South Carolina with degrees in music theory, John currently serves as the pianist at North Trenholm Baptist Church in Columbia. Outside of the arts, he works as a claims analyst for Palmetto GBA.
John would like to thank God for His continuous blessings and extends his gratitude to the patrons and supporters of the arts who make these productions possible.
Choreographer Christie Burgess
Choreographer Christie Burgess
Choreographer Christie Burgess
Christie Burgess is the proud owner of Dance Elements Academy in Batesburg-Leesville, SC, where she inspires students of all ages with her passion for dance and the performing arts. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Christie has choreographed and taught a variety of styles and served as Associate Choreographer for productions like Seussical Jr. and The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition.
A graduate of the University of South Carolina Aiken, Christie earned her degree in Communications with a minor in Fine Arts. During her college years, she choreographed and participated in numerous theater productions and served as captain of the USCA Dance Team in her junior and senior years.
Outside of the studio, Christie is a proud mom to three children, who are active in dance, sports, and musical theater. She is thrilled to bring her creativity and expertise to this year’s Summer Youth Production, sharing her love for the arts with the next generation of performers.