WEST BLOOMFIELD, MI-This summer, join us for our outdoor presentation of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee on the grounds of the Berman Center for the Performing Arts in West Bloomfield. Bring your chair and blanket and settle in for an evening of theatre under the stars! Seating is general admission and chairs will not be provided.

Nicely Creative Director Mitch Master directs with choreography and vocal direction by Lindsey Tycholiz-McKiddy and music direction by Ron Pietrantoni. 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 fresh and vibrant score by William Finn, this bee is one unforgettable experience.

An eclectic group of six mid-pubescents vies 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! At least the losers get a juice box.

Tickets are $25 each. The show is recommended for ages 12+, with a 100-minute running time and no intermission. Curtain is at 8:30pm with admittance to the grounds at 7:30pm to secure your spot and enjoy refreshments and musical entertainment before the show.

Audience members will not be required to wear a mask. In the event of inclement weather, the show will be moved indoors to the Berman Center at no more than 50% capacity. Venue changes will be announced via email and/or text. If you don’t feel comfortable seeing the show indoors, we will issue a full refund.