MY Theatre: Newsies Jr.

Mansfield families seeking a sensory-friendly downtown outing will have a dedicated option when Mansfield Youth Theatre stages Newsies Jr. at the Renaissance Main Stage from Sept. 11 through 13, 2026.

The 1 p.m. Saturday performance will offer free admission for groups of up to six people attending with someone on the autism spectrum or with other sensory-processing needs. It is one of four weekend performances of the youth musical, whose young characters band together to demand fair treatment.

Young workers take a stand

Set in turn-of-the-century New York City, Newsies Jr. follows newsboy Jack Kelly as publishers raise prices at the newsies’ expense. Kelly rallies young workers across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and demand change.

The 60-minute musical is adapted from the 2012 Broadway production, which was based on the 1992 film.

A sensory-friendly matinee

The Sept. 12 sensory-friendly performance is intended for families of people on the autism spectrum and those with other sensory-processing needs. As Richland Source reported, advance registration is required, availability is limited and walk-up patrons cannot be accommodated.

Admission is free for groups of up to six. Additional members of those groups, as well as families without sensory needs, may attend for $15 per person.

For registration and information, families may contact Renaissance Education Manager Dauphne Maloney at 419-522-2726, ext. 212, or [email protected].

Tickets and showtimes

General-admission tickets start at $15. A $45 Family Night Package includes four seats, popcorn and water.

Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11; 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12; and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13. All four will take place at the Renaissance Main Stage, 138 Park Avenue West in Mansfield.