Get R-E-A-D-Y to spell as Vanier College Productions at York University presents The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. The show will run from Nov. 20 to 22 at the Fred Thury Studio Theatres, 258 Vanier College, Keele Campus.
Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is an unforgettable experience. 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. At least the losers get a juice box.
With music and lyrics by William Finn, book written by Rachel Sheinkin and conceived by Rebecca Feldman, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a heartwarming musical full of laughs.
“I saw the original production on Broadway,” said Ryan G. Hinds, director of the musical. “I just really loved it. It’s a great show. It’s funny and it’s moving. It’s everything I love about musical theatre.”
Vanier College Productions’ The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is directed and choreographed by Hinds, with music directed by Tom Kerr, and stage managed by Darren Fernando.
For tickets or more information, visit the Vanier College Productions website. Tickets can be purchased online through the Vanier College Productions site or at the doors (cash only). Tickets are $15 for students with ID and $25 for general. Tickets for the accessible performance are $15 for general admission and $10 for students.
The musical will run until Nov. 24, with performances Wednesday to Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m. and Friday, Nov. 22 at 11 p.m. There will be an accessible performance Thursday, Nov. 21 at 8 p.m.
The Fred Thury Studio Theatre is located at 258 Vanier College. To reach the theatre, take the stairs or elevator on the east side of Vanier College to the second floor.