Join us at The James Theater for Iowa Conservatory’s 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee! Iowa Conservatory’s second annual spring musical promises an evening of laughs, music, and competition in this student produced play! Tickets are available now, we are excited to see you there!

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Cast List for Split Shows!

Yellow Cast performs Friday at 7:30 and Saturday at 2pm

Blue Cast performs Saturday at 7:30 and Sunday at 2pm

Rona (Olive’s Mom)

Maya Hanna (Yellow)

Abril Benjarano Hamity (Blue)

Marcy Parks (Leaf’s Sister)

Addyson Siepker (Yellow)

Talia Eby (Cast B)

Olive Ostrovsky (Leaf’s Sibling)

Ella Vakiner (Yellow)

Korah Jo Robinson (Blue)

Logainne SchwartzandGrubenierre (Leaf’s Mom)

Halle Burgmaier (Yellow)

Shea Sanders (Blue)

Leaf Coneybear (Carl Dad)

Henry Schau (Yellow)

Ian Gentry (Blue)

Chip Tolentino (Jesus)

Eli Asper (Yellow)

Carter Houtchins-Witt (Blue)

William Barfee (Leaf’s Dad)

Luke Reimer (All shows)

Mitch (Dan Dad)

Xion Owens-Holst (All shows)

Vice President Panche (Olive’s Dad)

Carter Wagner (All shows)