It’s been more than 2 years since Newsies closed on Broadway, but the Fansies are still going strong. Jordan Samuels joined the touring cast as Specs and now he’s bringing the character to life on the big screen. The Newsies movie will be playing in cinemas nationwide for 3 days only, so in anticipation of this exciting event, we asked Jordan for the inside scoop.
How did you get into dancing and who inspired you?
I got into dancing when I was 3 and mom said I used to try and dance like Michael Jackson whenever one of his songs or videos came out.
When did you add the acting and singing?
I added in singing and acting when I was about 8 or 9
Which form of dance is your favorite?
I like to flip flop which style I like the best. So currently I’m feeling hip-hop thanks to my personal friend and teacher Hamilton Evans.
How does doing a Europe tour and Broadway tour compare?
This is a tough one, uhh they’re not that different but really different at the same time. Audiences in Europe I feel like are a lot more appreciative than people over here in the States about art is general. Dance, theater, painter, singer whatever it is they appreciate it more.
Were you familiar with the original Newsies movie before you were cast in the show?
I’ve seen parts of it before because of school and whatnot but I fell asleep because I’m THAT guy.
What was your reaction when you heard they were filming Newsies?
I’m pretty sure I was on vacation when I got wind of it and I was really happy that I’d get the chance to be on the big screen and the people who couldn’t see me on tour now get to see me in the film!
What was the biggest change from touring and performing live to the movie?
The biggest change for me was getting used to all the cameras and equipment. If anyone has been on set before, they move quick, like there’s no time for chitchat and talk about your feelings with your bestie. NOPE, gotta keep it movin’!
How do you feel about the fansies? Were you expecting Newsies to become such a big phenomenon?
The fansies are pretty tight. I like messin’ with you guys on twitter and talking about anime, and marvel movies and stuff. I didn’t really expect this outcome, not one bit!
Can you share any funny mishaps that happened when you were on stage?
Hmmm, at the start of the show one time the towers never moved so we had to hold the show and our hella talented crewsies got it working again.
What it was like to suddenly redo the show with Jeremy Jordan, Kara Lindsay, and so on. Did they slide in easily or was it awkward?
It wasn’t rocket science, but I’d say it was on the easier side. The hardest part for me and for the lot of us I’m sure was trying to find the same chemistry we’ve had with our cast and transfer it new people and still keep genuine, that’s our jobs as actors.
If you could have played any other character in the show, who would it be?
Pulitzer, because he means business and so do I.
What are you most excited for people to see in the movie?
My flips and for everyone to see all my bros (even girl bros) have fun doing what they love.
If you could give your teenage self one piece of advice what would it be?
Never give up. Simple.
Favorite city you’ve ever been to (on tour/on vacation/in general)?
Hmmm, well obviously NYC is my favorite city, but on tour my favorite would have to be a tie with Dallas,TX and Chicago, IL. I definitely prefer Chicago when it’s warmer!
Question from a fan: You like Spiderman a lot, so who would you pick? Gwen Stacy or Mary Jane Watson? Tobey Maguire or Andrew Garfield? Peter Parker or Miles Morales?
Ahhhh the good ol’ Spidey question, Mary Jane technically was my first crush, but I love me some Emma Stone, so Emma over Kirsten. I like Tobey better as Peter Parker and Andrew better as Spidey. Now Peter vs. Miles, that’s a hard one I gotta think about but for now I’ll just go with classic Peter Parker– sorry Miles fans!
Jordan will be taking over the Broadway Wiz snapchat for the Newsies Premiere on Monday, February 13. Make sure you’re following thebroadwaywiz so you don’t miss out!
Broadway Wiz is also giving you the chance to win 2 passes to a Newsies screening on February 16,18 or 22! Click here to enter.