Cast members of Tyler Civic Theatre's production of Disney's "Newsies the Musical" perform "Seize the Day" during a dress rehearsal in Tyler. (Cara Campbell/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Broadway stars are giving the cast of Tyler Civic Theatre’s “Newsies” a little love.

Stephen Rainwater, the director of the energetic musical playing at the theater, reached out to Broadway veterans to see if they would give the mostly young cast encouragement.

He was thrilled when some of the stars did just that in videos. Their messages are filled with best wishes and inside references to the play.

Ben Fankhauser, who played newsboy Davey in the original Broadway production, wished the cast good luck.

“I am here to wish you guys a fantastic run,” Fankhauser said in his video. “Break your legs, seize the day, it’s going to be great. Oh yeh, I have to give a special shout out to Fritz (Hager III), who is playing Davey, my Davey brother in arms.

“You guys, you’re going to make so many people happy with this production,” he continued. “The show is magical. I remember doing it and just loving it every time I did it. I can’t wait for what you guys are going to give to the community. You are going to be amazing. Break a leg, seize the day, the world will know that you are the kings of New York. Happy newsies guys.”

Ryan Steele, who played Specs in the Broadway run of “Newsies,” said in his video: “I want to send all of my love and tell you to break a leg and have a blast, carry the banner.

“Special shout out to Isaiah Pearson who is playing Specs. That’s a great part,” he continued. “I hope you all are having a blast. I love the show so much and I had the best time doing it. I really hope you guys are enjoying it as much as I did. … My heart is with you.”

Laura Osnes, who has received Tony nominations for her starring roles in the Broadway musicals “Bonnie and Clyde” and “Cinderella,” also was kind enough to record a message.

“I hear that you guys are doing ‘Newsies’ this summer,” she said in her video. “I’m so excited for you guys. Your incredible director, Stephen Rainwater, reached out to me to send you guys an awesome message of encouragement of good luck and energy … Lots of broken legs for your opening weekend. So happy opening. I just hope you guys have an amazing run and an incredible time together.

“Tonight (opening night) is the time all of the hard work pays off, she continued. “You get to enjoy the fruits of your labor and make the show your own. So go out there and shine like the stars that you are and seize that day. You are kings and queens of New York.

“Also, special shout out to Miss Lizzy Tucker for playing Katherine — such a great role.”

She ended by encouraging the cast members to take care of themselves and one another.

You can watch the videos and learn more about the cast members on Tyler Civic Theatre Center’s Facebook page.

“Newsies” is based on the true story of a strike by New York City newsboys in 1899. They were protesting because the city’s powerful publishers raised the price of newspapers.

The musical began as a movie that did not do well at the box office before becoming a stage show that was a big hit on Broadway. “Newsies” is known for the songs “Seize the Day” and “Santa Fe” and its group dance numbers.

Performances of “Newsies” are set for 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday and continue Aug. 1-4 and 8-11.

Tickets are available on the theater’s website, tylercivictheatre.com.

What: “Newsies the Musical”

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Show runs through Aug. 11

Where: Tyler Civic Theatre, 400 Rose Park Drive, Tyler