YVC Drama presents “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” — Nov. 3-5 & 10-12
The Yakima Valley College Drama Department will present its fall production, the Tony Award-winning musical comedy “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” with performances November 3 – 5 and November 10 – 12 at 7:30 p.m. in Kendall Hall Auditorium. Tickets are $15 for YVC students and employees and $20 general admission.
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.
In the musical 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.
Alicia Bickley, director of drama, will direct YVC’s production with musical direction by Steven Slusher, director of choral music.
Bickley chose this selection because of the intimate cast size along with its important message about inclusivity.
“We chose this show because it felt small enough in scale to mount in a short period of time, has great music, and features characters that actors can sink their teeth into,” said Bickley. “It also has an appealing message of inclusiveness, as well as the importance of exploring our personal gifts and overcoming our personal challenges.”
Musical director Steven Slusher also felt this fall’s show was much needed.
“Having been online for the past two years, we are happy to get back to more ‘normal’ activities,” said Slusher. “This show has the perfect amount of energy and humor for cast and audiences alike. The music and drama departments are still here and excited for the year to come.”
Cast members include current students Grace Douglas and Dalilah Nelson along with former students Ryan Clinkenbeard, Monica Juarez and Megan Hawkins, all of whom have appeared in previous YVC theatre productions, in Warehouse Theatre productions, or in both.
Tickets are on sale now. YVC’s box office will open each night at 6 p.m. For more information call 509.574.4881.
Press Release Contacts:
Dustin Wunderlich / 509.574.6870 / dwunderlich@yvcc.edu
Stefanie Menard / 509.574.4646 / smenard@yvcc.edu