Rising Crawfordsville High School sophomore Shaeleigh Hreskowsky will spend part of her summer under the bright lights of one of Indiana’s premier pre-professional youth theater programs as a cast member in Summer Stock Stage’s 2026 production of Disney’s Newsies.
The talented young performer auditioned in March and was selected to join students from across Indiana in the coveted cast for the highly anticipated musical, which will be presented July 15–19, 2026, at the Howard L. Schrott Center for the Arts on the campus of Butler University in Indianapolis.
Hreskowsky is no stranger to the stage; over the years, she has built an impressive performance résumé through school, community, and youth theater productions. Audiences may recognize her from a variety of local memorable roles, including the wickedly powerful Maleficent from Descendants: The Musical at CMS, the iconic sea witch Ursula from The Little Mermaid Jr., and the formidable Miss Trunchbull from Matilda Jr. both at The Vanity Theater. Each role allowed her to showcase different aspects of her acting, singing, and stage presence.
Summer Stock Stage has earned a nationwide reputation for providing exceptional theatrical training and performance opportunities for young artists. Their productions feature talented student performers and professional-level production values, giving participants valuable experience in a competitive and collaborative environment.
Disney’s Newsies tells the inspiring true story of New York City’s 1899 newsboys strike. Filled with high-energy choreography and beloved songs such as “Seize the Day,” “King of New York,” and “Santa Fe,” the musical follows a group of young newspaper sellers who stand together to fight for fairness and justice.
Friends, family, and community members are encouraged to support Shaeleigh and her fellow cast members by attending one of the performances this summer. Her continued success serves as a testament to the vibrant performing arts community in Crawfordsville and the opportunities available to local youth willing to pursue their passion for the stage.
