The Quadrangle

Issue date: 2/16/05 Section: Arts & Entertainment

How many spelling bees have singing, dancing, free candy, and an appearance by Jesus? Just one - "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee". This hilarious musical, which recently opened off-Broadway at the Second Stage Theatre, is a satirical look at pre-pubescent walking dictionaries attempting to become champion spellers. It's not just a show about spelling however - it is a show about the trials and tribulations of growing up.
"Spelling Bee" is exactly that-the entire show is a two hour long spelling bee. While that sounds like the makings of a rather dull show, it's anything but. Rachel Sheinkin's book is witty and the dialogue is excellent. She captures the way that kids today talk, and she seems to know exactly what is going through their heads. Combined with William Finn's catchy music, this is a touching and side splitting two hours.
Their work is brought to life by a talented ensemble cast. Lisa Howard, who plays the host of the bee, is a delight to listen to. Her beautiful voice helps carry many of the show's most memorable tunes. Her sidekicks, a juice box toting parolee (the wonderfully versatile Derrick Baskin) and a mentally unstable assistant principal (Jay Reiss), are excellent. Each of the youthful contestants has their own distinct personality, and there are many standout performances among them. Jose Llana captures his character's sexual awakening with the right amount of humor. As a young speller with a sinus problem, Dan Folger is a riot. The multi talented Deborah S. Craig is perfect as an over achieving Catholic schoolgirl. Sarah Saltzberg and Celia Keenan-Bolger are both adorable. Rounding out the cast is the hilarious Jesse Tyler Ferguson as a zany hippie trying to prove that he is smart. "Spelling Bee" has the perfect cast, which is something that doesn't usually happen. While everyone has perfect comic timing, they also add a layer of depth to each of their characters making them all the more relatable.
James Lapine's direction is brilliant. Despite being performed without an intermission, the show never drags. It is seamless from start to finish. The action is non stop, and the audience is drawn in, making them feel like part of the story. In fact, some of the audience really does become part of the show in some very creative audience participation. "Spelling Bee" is one of those rare works that will both make you laugh and move you. It would be shame if it doesn't transfer to Broadway. This show is certainly a gem in today's theatre scene. In fact, it's e-f-f-u-l-g-e-n-t (Latin, meaning "bright, shining") piece of theatre.

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