This fall YVC’s Drama Department presented its fall production of the Tony Award-winning musical comedy “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.”
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 vibrant score by William Finn, this bee provided YVC audiences with an unforgettable experience.
Alicia Bickley, director of drama, directed YVC’s production with musical direction performed by Steven Slusher, director of choral music.
“We chose this show because it felt small enough in scale to mount in a short period of time, has great music and features characters that actors can sink their teeth into,” said Bickley. “It also has an appealing message of inclusiveness, as well as the importance of exploring our personal gifts and overcoming our personal challenges.”
Musical director Steven Slusher also felt this fall’s show was much needed.
“Having been online for the past two years, we are happy to get back to more ‘normal’ activities,” said Slusher. “This show has the perfect amount of energy and humor for cast and audiences alike. The music and drama departments are still here and excited for the year to come.”
Cast members included current students Grace Douglas and Dalilah Nelson along with former students Ryan Clinkenbeard, Monica Juarez and Megan Hawkins, all of whom have appeared in previous YVC theatre productions, in Warehouse Theatre productions, or in both.
Bickley was excited to see so many familiar faces in this fall’s show.
“Monica sang the role of Janet in YVC’s production of ‘The Rocky Horror Show,’ and Megan appeared in YVC’s production of ‘Cinderella,’” said Bickley. “Dalilah appeared in last spring’s ‘New Works Festival’ and in the collaborative production of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’. Grace appeared in ‘Rocky Horror,’ ‘These Shining Lives’ and ‘Dead Man’s Cellphone.’ It is wonderful to see these current and former students continue to develop their craft and perform on stage at YVC.”
YVC drama will continue with performances this winter and spring. In winter, Playmasters will present “Mr. Burns, a Post-Electric Play” written by Anne Washburn and directed by Ray Pritchard. The show follows Mr. Burns as he tells the story of a group of survivors recalling and retelling “Cape Feare,” an episode of the TV show “The Simpsons,” shortly after a global catastrophe. It then examines the way the story has changed seven years after that, and finally, 75 years later.
Performances will be held February 23-25 and March 2-4. Ticket sales will be announced at a later date.
A spring Festival of New Works performance of original student work also will take place. Visit the YVC calendar to stay-up-to date with current events.
