Now that the rush of local shows has abated (for the moment), here’s the review of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” that I promised over a week ago. (“Speedy Delivery” is not my slogan.)
Broadway shows don’t exist only in New York - they also ship ‘em around for extended runs in major cities like Chicago. That’s where my wife and I saw “Spelling Bee.” It’s a musical with a simple premise - six students are competing to be the local spelling champ, and during the course of the show we learn their stories, along with a few other characters.
Of course, each character has his or her own strange quirks, and the contest allows for some really funny gags. The production actually recruits competitors from the audience - before the show, you can sign up for the chance to be pulled up on stage. We didn’t register (the line was too long), but my pal Clint was chosen when he saw the show in New York, and had a hilarious time in his first starring role on Broadway.
The show has a lot to recommend it - the characters are very funny, often touching - or hilariously offensive. It may look like a children’s show, but it really isn’t, thanks to a few four-letter words and a few adult references.
The performers were terrific, and perfectly cast - especially James Earl Jones II, who has an amazing voice.
The songs are lots of fun, but my only complaint is that none of the songs are instantly memorable - you won’t walk home humming any tunes (though you'll probably remedy that by buying the soundtrack). But if you get the chance to see it, I do recommend the show - it’s funny, it’s entertaining, and who knows? You might get your big break, depending on how well you can spell.
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