With perhaps one of the most interesting storylines, the upcoming 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee is a musical comedy sure to entertain. Without a doubt, the satirical quality of the play makes it one which all audiences can enjoy. Just looking at the type of characters it employs shows the unique and playful attitude of the work, and the use of the dual casts, all of whom are extremely talented, make this an event not to be missed.
Junior Jane Humphrey said “I am very excited for the musical. this year we have double casting which enables a lot more people to get involved along with a lot more fun! It’s also a hilarious musical and should go great.” Her excitement for the play was evident from just talking to her. She has a lot of interest in her character Logainne Schwartzandgrubenierre SHS Drama is trying something new this season,: two separate casts.The dual cast system adds an exciting change to Scituate’s drama club. The musical will be acted out in separate performances, with each cast acting in alternating performances.
“My character has a lisp and I feel like I can really relate to that because I constantly talk fast and mutter which always makes people ask what I’m saying,” Humphrey said.
The characters are all quirky in different ways. They have their flaws, like most high school kids which make them relatable. The play also captures issues and ideas usually skirted by school plays, but which makes this one truly moving. Humphrey said, “the characters are so unique. The play is also quite modern shown by my gay dads as well as the ex-convict doing community service for the bee they continue to show off their characteristics in the play as well as develop and the audience is taken through their hardships and successes in the play.”
The musical comedy, which revolves around a middle school spelling bee, portrays six youths and three adults at the Putnam Valley Middle school. The musical goes on to reveal the individual attitudes of the six contestants, as well as invites members from the audience to join in the spelling bee. The unexpected quality of this action lets each play be a unique experience. The spelling bee, which on the surface appears simple, is an event filled with emotions and personal experience of the characters that make it complex, and often hilarious. The music, composed by Tony nominee William Finn, is outrageously amusing and full of life. Altogether, this is a musical not to be missed.
Spelling Bee opens May 3, 4, 5 at 7:30 p.m. and May 6 at 2:00 p.m. in the auditorium! You won’t want to miss it!