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, fast-paced crowd pleaser and an instant theatre patron favorite.
Set in the fictional Putnam County, the musical introduces a group of high-achieving young students (comically portrayed by adult actors) who have gathered for the spelling bee, an annual highlight of their small community. To these dictionary-devouring youngsters, this is more than a contest. It’s a chance to prove themselves, not just as spellers but as talented individuals, worthy of love and approval––especially from their parents.
“This show reminds us not to judge and that we never know what others are going through,” continues Shipman. “For anyone who has ever felt out of place, misunderstood, or ‘othered’ by peers––and, let’s be honest, who hasn’t?––this show playfully reminds us that we aren’t alone and that nothing is insurmountable. As Penfold’s mission is to bring intimate stories of empathy and hope to the community, I cannot think of a more compelling and appropriate romp to share with everyone.”
Acclaimed by The Washington Post as “a loony lollipop of a musical,” The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has a heart for all those who’ve felt they have to be the best just to be good enough.
Casting includes Will Mallick as Chip Tolentino, Eugenia De la Garza as Logainne Scwartzandgrubeniere, Andrew De La Garza as Leaf Coneybear, DJ Delvecchio as William Barfee, Elysia Worcester as Marcy Park, Myk Garcia as Olive Ostrovsky, Megan DeYoung as Rona Lisa Peretti, Ismael Soto III as Vice Principal Douglas Panch, and Tony Nielson as Mitch Mahoney.
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is directed by Scott Shipman with musical direction by Susan Finnigan. The production team includes Choreography and Assistant Direction by Jacob Rosenbaum, Set Design by Mel Edwards, Costume Design by Glenda Wolfe, Lighting Design by Patrick Anthony, Sound Design by Nicolae Wallace, Monroe Oxley as Technical Director, and Kat Kennedy as Production Stage Manager.
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Music and Lyrics by William Finn
Book by Rachel Sheinkin
Directed by Scott Shipman
Music Direction by Susan Finnigan
Choreography by Jacob Rosenbaum
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
by William Finn and Rachel Sheinkin
Penfold Theatre Company
Sept. 12 -Sunday Sept. 28, 2025
Open dress rehearsal preview Thursday Sept. 11, 2025
Penfold Theatre Company
2120 N. Mays Street, Suite 290, Round Rock, TX 78664 (Map)
Penfold is located in Rock Creek Plaza at I-35 and Texas Ave. Free parking is available on site. Additional Round Rock Rides offers a drop off point at Rock Creek Plaza where Penfold Theatre is located. To learn more about this low-cost ride-sharing program visit here.
Penfold Theatre Company is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to opening and operating a professional theatre for north Travis and Williamson counties. Our mission is to empower artists to create …
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