Spellbinding musical comedy debuts on DPRCA stage July 10

It's a battle of adolescent wits, and one word separates the winner from the loser.

"The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" debuts on the Old Church Theatre stage Wednesday, July 10.

This colorful musical comedy takes place in the late '70s, with plenty of shenanigans on stage to keep audiences engaged.

Folks, this is no ordinary spelling bee. 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; but only one can leave a champion! At least the losers get a juice box.

Rated PG-13 for mild language and adult humor, "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" is a relatable musical comedy that humorously explores the adolescent experience. Caricatures of stereotypical tweens come to life, and their character flaws are wildly exposed on stage as, one by one, they crack under the pressure of perfection.

Five actors return to the DPRCA stage for The Bee, including New Rockford-Sheyenne alums Tessa Hartl and Hallie Brown. Hartl is the emcee of the bee, the hostess with the mostest, Rona Lisa Peretti. Brown stars as contestant Logainne SchwartzandGrubenierre, the girl who's name no one can say or spell the same twice.

Hannah Guilinger is back as speller Olive Ostrovsky. This is Guilinger's third summer with DPRCA.

JoshuaDerrick Kenebrew returns as the "comfort counselor" Mitch Mahoney. Kenebrew made his DPRCA debut as Linus in last year's summer hit, "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown."

DPRCA Artistic Director Elliott Schwab plays Vice Principal Douglas Panch.

Four new actors round out the cast, each playing one of a gaggle of tween spellers: Simon Schlenker as Chip Tolentino, Jakob Innes as Leaf Coneybear, Jeremiah Mitchell as William Morris Barfée and Marisa Sanchez as Marcy Park. Read the "Meet the Cast" feature in next week's paper for the full rundown on the actors who are making their debut on the DPRCA stage this summer.

"The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" opens Wednesday, July 10. With 20 performances through August 4, there are plenty of opportunities to see this one live.

Complete your night out with a meal at the Bistro, in the basement of Old Church Theatre. The ever-popular Bistro menu is back, with more options to choose from. Check out the menu online at dprca.com and on the DPRCA Facebook page. Make sure to reserve your table and order your menu choice in advance when you purchase your show ticket.

The 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 you won't want to miss.

Get your tickets today! Ticket prices are $30 for adults, $20 for students and $15 for youth age 10 and under.

Tickets are for sale online at dprca.com. Book your show seats and your dinner table by calling or texting (701) 399-9634.