Students at Bret Harte Union High School will present the Tony Award–winning musical comedy The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee next month at the Dr. Elliott A. Smart Performing Arts Center. The wacky musical follows a youth spelling competition from the first word to the last, showcasing memorable contestants, the offbeat adults in charge, and four competitors selected from the audience each show.
In a sharp change of direction from last year’s Chicago, Bret Harte theatricians return in April with a contemporary, ensemble-driven comedy about navigating expectations, both ourselves and others. Developed from an improvisational play by Rebecca Feldman, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee features music and lyrics by William Finn and a book from Rachel Sheinkin. The student cast is directed by Grover Anderson, choreographed by alumna Sophie Smylie, and vocally coached by Ali Reynolds. Performances feature a live student and community orchestra conducted by Bret Harte band director David Allured.
Five performances will take place over two weeks, beginning with 7pm shows on Thursday April 16 and Friday April 17. A 2pm matinee will show Saturday April 18, followed by two more 7pm performances on Thursday April 23 and Friday April 24.
In an exciting twist, each show will include four spellers selected to compete from the audience. If attendees are interested in being part of the show, they should fill out the interest form at https://bit.ly/47bKJEL
The musical addresses cast members navigating puberty and contains some mild language, but two performances—April 18th and 23rd—will include modifications to the script that make these shows accessible to all ages.
Cast members include:
Kyley Cunningham, Christian Forjan, Ellie Freer, Gweneth Heinle, Laurel Henderson, Khloe Losik, Wyatt Pitto, Adalene Redford, Gia Rinauro, and Krit Aok Sae-Ueng. Gabriel Forjan serves as stage manager.
The box office will open 45 minutes prior to curtain; seating begins 30 minutes prior. General admission is $12, students and seniors are $5. Cash and card are accepted.
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
