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Boston Theatre Scene

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

BCA Plaza Theatre, 539 Tremont Street

January 22 – February 1 2026

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is part of the inaugural season of The Hive Theatre Company, featuring an all local Boston cast and creative team.

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. This is a spelling bee you’ll actually want to attend!

Book by Rachel Sheinkin & Conceived by Rebecca Feldman

Music and lyrics by William Finn

Director Margaret McFadden

Musical Director John Eldridge

Choreographer Margaret McFadden

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is part of the inaugural season of The Hive Theatre Company, featuring an all local Boston cast and creative team.

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. This is a spelling bee you’ll actually want to attend!

Book by Rachel Sheinkin & Conceived by Rebecca Feldman

Music and lyrics by William Finn

Director Margaret McFadden

Musical Director John Eldridge

Choreographer Margaret McFadden

Duration

1 hour 45 minutes with ONE intermission

SUITABLE AGES

14+

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