Stage Write

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre opened its 2011 season with the Tony-award-winning musical “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” The title is a mouthful and so are many of the words the actors must spell, but the mood is playful. The story follows a handful of middle school students who have made it to the county spelling bee. All of the “students” are played by adults which adds an extra layer of absurd humor. The premise is reminiscent of the movie Best in Show, but instead of poking gentle fun at dog shows, spelling bees are the target. Like the film, Spelling Bee is incredibly funny, but contains some adult humor. (Leaf Coneybear) The six main spellers include the politically correct Logainne Schwarzandgrubenierre, timid Olive Ostrovsky, perfectionist Marcy Park, obnoxious William Barfee, boyscout Chip Tolentino and free-spirited Leaf Coneybear. Four volunteer audience members are also chosen at each show to become part of the competition. Seth A. Tucker provided my f...