The 25th Annual Putnam   County Spelling Bee 

Stages is delighted to announce a July 2025 production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, in collaboration with IU Theatre & Dance. Rehearsals and performances for Spelling Bee will take place in the IU Theatre and Dance building on campus. Participation in this production is by audition only. 

 

REHEARSALS

Rehearsals and performances run July 7th - July 26th. Due to the short rehearsal window, actors must commit to the entire rehearsal schedule. 

 

AUDITIONS

Auditions are open to performers ages 14-18. After the production has been cast, each member of the cast will pay a production fee to accept their role. The production fee will contribute to royalties, compensation for the creative team, and production materials. Please note, not all who audition will be cast in the production. 

 

Interested? Email info@stagesbloomington.com for details.

 

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ABOUT THE SHOW

From Music Theatre International: 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.