Fans of musical theatre: This one is for you! The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee opens the Indiana Repertory Theatre’s 2024-2025 season this month, and will run from September 18–October 13.
A Play for All Ages
The play follows a motley crew of wonderfully unique and impassioned young spellers, each vying to be the next county champion. With clever songs, quirky characters, and raucous humor, this silly musical comedy is a celebration of the thrill of victory, the irony of defeat, and the gift of being true to yourself.
“As the Olympics have recently reminded us, the thrill and suspense of competition is intoxicating. Who will be the first to fold? Who will make it to the finish line?,” says artistic director Benjamin Hanna. “With guest celebrity spellers, great music, and a wonderful cast of quirky characters, this musical has a little something for everyone.”
An Interactive Performance
Each performance of he 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has audience participation, and throughout the run there will be a variety of community members who will also take to the stage and try their hand at the Bee.
Special Programming
The Theatre will host supplemental programming during the run of the show, including artist conversations that provide a behind-the-scenes perspective on the production, a sensory-friendly performance, an ASL/AD performance, and a special opening night celebration.
Opening Night | Friday, September 20
Enjoy festivities before and after the performance including food and drinks for purchase, a selfie station, plus after the show delight in a champagne toast and a one-time-only chance to explore the set with IRT Artisans.
Teacher Appreciation Night | Tuesday, September 24 | Performance at 7:30 PM
Enjoy a trip to the Theatre without scheduling buses or chaperoning students! The IRT invites educators to be our guests at the heartwarming musical The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee on September 24, 2024. Doors open at 6:30 PM and the show starts at 7:30 PM. Teachers who register in advance get a free ticket to the show that night, swag, and snacks, as well as the opportunity to buy $10 tickets for guests. You may even be picked to be part of the show! Staff will be on hand to answer questions about our educational programming.
Artist Conversation | Saturday, September 28 | Following the 5 PM Performance
Engage with the creative minds behind the scenes through staff-led Artist Conversations. Dig into the artistic process, gain insights into the production’s development, and connect with the actors, directors, and designers who bring our shows to life. This interactive series offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of theater from a behind-the-scenes perspective, fostering a deeper appreciation for the magic that happens both on and off the stage. Artist Conversations typically last for 20 minutes.
ASL/AD Performance | Sunday, September 29 | Performance at 2 PM
The IRT offers ASL/AD services to our patrons with vision and hearing needs. Patrons with hearing needs are encouraged to sit in the interpretation zone and meet with the interpreter before the show. We also offer Assisted Listening Devices free of charge at each performance.
Artist Conversation | Thursday, October 3 | Following the 7:30 PM Performance
Engage with the creative minds behind the scenes through staff-led Artist Conversations. Dig into the artistic process, gain insights into the production’s development, and connect with the actors, directors, and designers who bring our shows to life. This interactive series offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of theater from a behind-the-scenes perspective, fostering a deeper appreciation for the magic that happens both on and off the stage. Artist Conversations typically last for 20 minutes.
Artist Conversation | Thursday, October 10 | Following the 7:30 PM Performance
Engage with the creative minds behind the scenes through staff-led Artist Conversations. Dig into the artistic process, gain insights into the production’s development, and connect with the actors, directors, and designers who bring our shows to life. This interactive series offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of theater from a behind-the-scenes perspective, fostering a deeper appreciation for the magic that happens both on and off the stage. Artist Conversations typically last for 20 minutes.
Sensory-friendly Performance | Saturday, October 12 | Performance at 1 PM
Sensory Friendly performances are designed to create a welcoming experience for all, including those with autism or other sensory sensitivities. Elements of Sensory Friendly performances may be adapted to ensure the comfort of all of our audience members. Sensory supports are available for all performances, just ask House Management.
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