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The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Six awkward spelling champions learn that winning (and losing) isn't everything.

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.

Full Synopsis Materials and Orchestration

Concert Selections for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

MTI is pleased to provide the pre-approved rental materials of select songs for your symphonic concert performance. Please note, MTI is unable to grant the necessary Performance Rights with this material rental. The Performance Rights needed must be obtained separately through the individual song’s respective small rights agency such as ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. Please email concerts@mtishows.com with any questions.

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Show Essentials

Conceived by

Rebecca Feldman

Additional Material by

Music and Lyrics by

Book by

Rachel Sheinkin

Songs

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

The Spelling Rules/My Favorite Moment of the Bee

My Friend, the Dictionary

The First Goodbye

Pandemonium

I'm Not That Smart

The Second Goodbye

Magic Foot

Pandemonium (Reprise)/My Favorite Moment of the Bee 2

Why We Like Spelling

Prayer of the Comfort Counselor

My Unfortunate Erection (Chip's Lament)

Woe is Me

I'm Not That Smart (Reprise)

I Speak Six Languages

The I Love You Song

Woe is Me (Reprise)

My Favorite Moment of the Bee 3/Second

Finale

The Last Goodbye

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Questions & Answers

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November 28, 2020

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Related shows or resources: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Is there a school version of "Spelling Bee" and if so, how do I go about ordering a perusal copy?

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October 28, 2020

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Putnam County Spelling Bee

Is this show available for virtual streaming?

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March 07, 2019

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how do I change keys of these tracks?

I need to change the key of a few of the numbers.... how do I do that?

Thank You,

jc

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January 27, 2019

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Music Tracks

Hi, where can I buy the musical audio tracks - both the accompaniment for performances and practice tracks - ?

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By ElderMcKinley

September 22, 2018

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Buy the book?

Hello, I can't find anywhere to purchase the book. Where can I do that? Thank you.

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September 20, 2018

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what do I with the access code?

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September 20, 2018

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what do I with the access code?

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October 01, 2016

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Spelling Bee

Is there any alternative version of the song "Chip's Lament" for High Schools. If you did this show, did you cut the number, or have an alternative? Thanks,

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September 05, 2016

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We would like to do 25th Annual PCSB, but we would have a problem getting permission for Chip's Lament. Are there alternative lyrics for the erection song?

erection song alternative

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By Kathy Belinkie

July 28, 2012

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Related shows or resources: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Adding ensemble to "Spelling Bee?"

Has anyone seen/done a version of Spelling Bee where extra cast members are added to sing some of the songs, just to get more kids involved in the show? I can't imagine how, as everyone obviously needs to be eliminated, but I was trying to think about it like "A Chorus Line," where the large group started and ended the show.

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Pages

Callboard

In Memoriam

Celebrating the Wit and Heart of William Finn

William Finn

MTI honors the Tony-winning composer who gave us so many endearing musicals.

Filichia Features

Filichia Features: At the Very First Annual North Dakota Spelling Bee

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