The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Unwieldy. Def: Awkward and cumbersome. To use in a sentence: “Unwieldy Is one of those words that is not only hard to spell, it also is the perfect word to describe the title of this deceptively cutesy-sounding play”.

This is the first viewing of this show for this reviewer, but it has been on the list for quite some time, due to the cult status it has attained in recent years. The show’s glowing reputation is totally justified - it’s a deliciously sharp and relatable satire. Spoiler alert regarding the plot: it’s about a spelling bee!

Casting adults to play kids is not a new concept, but there’s always the possibility actors might be tempted to go a little over the top with characterisation, becoming hamfisted with the comedy. Without a hint of hyperbole, director Ruth Tiffen couldn’t have assembled a better cast. This show is an ensemble piece in every sense of the word and their onstage chemistry is truly captivating.

Each actor brings such authenticity to their performance, that the audience cannot help but strongly identify. The gentle, emotional undercurrent of what is ostensibly a bold and chaotic M-rated show, never loses its traction - which is undoubtedly a credit to the show’s entire creative team. With audience participation - and a couple of veteran comedic performers in the cast, somehow there's a delightfully fresh ‘improv’ feel of the show, even though the slick pace never misses a beat. Polished vocal performances, fab choreography, subtle lighting, infectious music, and the worst fake beard in theatre history all combine to make this a truly outstanding ‘sideshow’ for GMS.

Hopefully this will set a new trend for further experimentation with lesser-known and alternative works for the society. Everything about the production was not only on point, it was dazzlingly fulgent (def: shiny and sparkling).

Rose Cooper