‘Paperboy’: World Premiere of the New Musical at Weathervane Theatre — the Story of an 11-Year-Old Boy in 1959 Memphis

Weathervane Theatre in New Hampshire has presented the world premiere of “Paperboy,” the musical adaptation of Vince Vawter’s Newbery Award-winning novel. The musical, previously developed in a workshop at the Manhattan School of Music, is the second world premiere of the acclaimed regional theatre’s 61st season, under the leadership of producing artistic director Ethan Paulini.

Set in 1959 Memphis, the musical follows an 11-year-old boy who struggles with stuttering and unexpectedly finds his voice while covering a friend’s paper route. Along the way, an unforgettable cast of characters challenges him to see the world — and himself — differently. With an electrifying score blending rockabilly, Memphis blues and classic Broadway sounds, “Paperboy” is a touching coming-of-age story about communication, courage and discovering the power of self-acceptance. Based on the author’s own childhood, Vawter hopes audiences will understand that stuttering is never cured, but overcome.

The book was co-written by Vawter, Emily Loesser and Don Stephenson; the music was composed by Jim Wann (“Pump Boys & Dinettes”) and David Shenton, with lyrics by Jim Wann and additional arrangements by Noah Huseman. Stephenson (known for “Titanic”) directs, with choreography by Alex Sanchez (“Paradise Square”) and music direction by Noah Huseman.

Leading the cast is Kolter James Erickson in the role of Paperboy, joined by Robert H. Fowler (“The Producers”) as Mr. Spiro and Becca Ayers (“1776”) as Mrs. Worthington. Also in the cast: Jacob A. Butler (Father), Marisa Kirby (Mother), Lew Whitener (RT), Jewell Noel (Rain), Isiah Bostic (Troy), Jorge Donoso (Willie), Max Desantis and Tyne Dougherty (carriers).

“Paperboy” opened on September 17 and plays in alternating repertory through October 3, 2026. Among the special events is a post-show talkback on September 27 with novelist Vince Vawter and composer Jim Wann, moderated by Courtney Vashaw in partnership with the Whitefield Public Library. Tickets are on sale at weathervanenh.org or by phone at 603-837-9322. Weathervane’s 61st season continues through October 11 with “Glock 17.,” “Much Ado About Nothing” and “Anything Goes.”

Source: BroadwayWorld (https://www.broadwayworld.com/new-hampshire/article/PAPERBOY-World-Premiere-To-Be-Presented-By-Weathervane-Theatre-20260919)