"The musical is a tribute to the awkwardness of being different, kids who read the dictionary with urgent ferocity. But behind the competitive spirit that comes with devouring Latin and Greek roots are stories of kids who overcompensate with the hope of being "normal.""
"There are no varsity quarterbacks or Olympic hopefuls among these quirkmasters, just a heaping of outcasts who believe their lot in life rests on words like capybara and tittup."
"The spelling kids arrive with various expectations, outfits and modes of transportation, along with backstories that provide the heartbeat of what makes the piece such a joy."
The Putnam County Spelling Bee is a musical tribute to social outcasts and underdogs who compete in a spelling competition. The story follows quirky young spellers who use words as their path to normalcy and acceptance. Former champion Rona Lisa Peretti oversees the bee alongside Vice Principal Douglas Panch and comfort counselor Midge Mahoney. The production features joyful direction, playful choreography, and vibrant scenic design. Each character arrives with unique backstories and expectations, creating a heartfelt narrative about overcoming awkwardness and finding belonging through competition and shared experiences.
Read at The Mercury News
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