Beaufort Theatre Company presents the delightfully madcap musical “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” April 15 to 23, at the USCB Center for the Arts, located at 801 Carteret Street in historic downtown Beaufort.
Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” has charmed audiences across the country with its effortless wit and humor. Featuring a fast-paced, wildly funny, and touching book by Rachel Sheinkin and a truly fresh and vibrant score by William Finn, this bee is one unforgettable experience.
An eclectic group of mid-pubescents vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. While candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the tweens spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing, pout-inducing, life-un-affirming “ding” of the bell that signals a spelling mistake.
Six spellers enter; one speller leaves! At least the losers get a juice box. A riotous ride, complete with audience participation, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” is a delightful den of comedic genius.
An editor’s not, however: This production is rated PG-13 and is not recommended for children younger than 16 years old.
The cast features Chris Barr as Mitch Mahoney; Christi Barr as Rona Lisa Peretti; Caroline Fonseca as Logan Schwartzandgrubenierre; Alex Long as Chip Tolentino; Paddy Myers as Leaf Coneybear; Joe Ogiony as Vice Principal Douglas Panch; Julie Seibold as Marcy Park; Jordan Robinson as Olive Ostrovsky; and Dakota Wright as William Barfee.
The show is produced and directed by Bonnie Hargrove. Other members of the production team are Musical Director Madeline Helser, Choreographer Christi Barr, Set Designer Greg Rawls, Lighting Designer John Dowbiggen, Sound Engineer Wes Tinsley, Costume Designer Caroline Fonseca, Scenic Artist Mary Ann Ford, and Stage Manager Barry Reese.
Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and military, and $15 for students and may be purchased online or by calling the CFA Box Office at 843-521-4145. The USCB Center for the Arts is wheelchair accessible, with free parking next to the theater.
For a complete listing of adult and children’s events, visit us online at www.USCBCenterForTheArts.com
