Youth theaters join forces to present 'Spelling Bee' classic
ArtReach Educational Theatre in partnership with Spotlite Theatrix Production Company is staging "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee," music and lyrics by William Finn; book by Rachel Sheinkin.
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 life, the tweens spell their way through a series of [potentially made-up] words hoping to never 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.
The production is directed by Rocco Ayala of Chicago with musical direction by Mary Nicholas of Palatine.
The cast includes Melissa Nakazawa of Hoffman Estates as Marcie; Madalyn Griseto of Des Plaines as Olive, Elizabeth Sample of Elgin as Schwartzy, Gabbi Jones of Arlington Heights as Olive's mom, Justin Santostefano of Elgin as Chip, Jonah Parra of Chicago as Leif, Rocco Ayala as Barfee, Tony Uzzle of Algonquin as Mitch and Vinny Prisco of St. Charles as Hanz.
Shows will be performed at The Leela Arts Center, 620 Lee St., in Des Plaines. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 31; 3 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1; and 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 2. Tickets are $16 in advance, $18 at the door. For ticket information, call (630) 808-5852 or visit www.artreachspotlite.com.
The mission of ArtReach Educational Theatre is to expose children to all aspects of theater, music and dance. Any child, age 5 through high school, with a genuine interest in the arts is welcome. All children are challenged and encouraged. ArtReach Educational Theatre offers private voice lessons, dance and acting classes, advanced musical theater workshops and Summer Arts Camp programs in Palatine. For information about ArtReach programs taught by professional actors and teachers, call (847) 372-7798 or visit www.artreachspotlite.com.
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