Character guide
Les
from Newsies
Les is Davey's younger brother in Newsies, a spirited kid who throws himself into the world of the newsboys with enthusiasm well beyond his years.
- Show
- Newsies
- Premiered
- 2012
- Role
- Supporting
- Composer
- Alan Menken
Who is Les?
Les joins his older brother Davey in selling newspapers, and quickly proves that youth is no obstacle to hustle. He has a knack for charming customers and picks up the newsboys' street smarts fast, often outselling boys twice his age through sheer charisma.
His presence adds warmth and comic energy to the newsboys' world, and his eagerness to belong to the group mirrors the found-family bond that holds the newsies together throughout the strike.
Les's role in Newsies
Les is a supporting role, typically played by a younger performer, and he brings lightness and humor to scenes that might otherwise lean heavily dramatic. The part calls for confidence, comic timing, and enough stage presence to hold his own alongside older cast members in ensemble numbers.
While his stage time is smaller than the principal characters, Les is a fan favorite in many productions because of the charm and energy a strong young performer can bring to the role.
Why Les resonates with audiences
Audiences often root for Les because he represents the innocence at stake in the newsboys' fight. His eagerness to prove himself and his easy affection for his new friends give the show moments of pure lightness amid the harder realities of the strike, and that contrast makes him memorable despite his relatively small role.
Frequently asked
What show is Les from?
Les is a character in Newsies, the musical with music by Alan Menken.
Is Les a lead or supporting role?
Les is a supporting role, usually played by a young performer as Davey's younger brother.
Who is Les related to in Newsies?
Les is the younger brother of Davey, another newsboy in the show.
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