The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
July 13th-15th
Orpheum Center for the Performing Arts
Tannersville, NY
THE CAST
About the show:
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.
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An eclectic group of six 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 a champion! At least the losers get a juice box.
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A riotous ride, complete with audience participation, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a delightful den of comedic genius. The small cast and unit set make this a perfect option for high schools or community theatres. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a fast-paced crowd pleaser and an instant theatre patron favorite. (MTI International Website for full synopsis)
About the Director:
Shannon Sambrook first appeared on stage as the Little White Rabbit in a kindergarten play. This sparked her passion for theater and performance. Since that first entrance, she has pursued music and acting through her school years and graduated from the College of Saint Rose with a degree in Music Education. She has taught music at Hunter-Tannersville Central School District since 1999, and has helmed such fabulous shows as The Addams Family, West Side Story, Mathilda, and Shrek, as well as many others. A founding member of the Maude Adams Theater Hub, she directed their productions of Into the Woods and The Rocky Horror Show (twice and counting), and co-produced the MATH Holiday Spectacular.