The 25th Annual Putman County Spelling Bee

There have been many spelling bees/ contests over time but this one is almost off the planet. This musical was first performed in 2005 and is set in a geographically ambiguous Putman Valley Middle School. It centres on six quirky adolescents who compete to win the “Bee” – the annual spelling contest.  It is doubtful that  six such weirdly diverse students could be found anywhere else but this mixture made for a good night’s entertainment. Throughout the play, the audience learns not only their spelling abilities but their lives in general through story and song. The spellers are introduced by moderator Rona Lisa Peretti and they sing of their anticipation of the bee. Then we meet Douglas Panch, the official word pronouncer. Then it was on for all comers.

Natalie Mead, the director, has brought this production to life with a consistently good cast that developed the hard-to-find great ensemble feel. As a team, they were one and the credit is due to the director. Stephanie Collins was the good steady influence, while Troy Bullock provided an effective contrast. Congratulations to the other cast members for their good – very good performances, highlighted by their inter-play and ensemble work. Oh, the audience was not distracted by the set but was sometimes by the musical backing as it was far too loud at times.

It may have a long title but the play itself was over in seemingly no time – a sign as to how good it was.  Well done.

William Davies