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The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Grab your parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, neighbors, and goldfish, and go buy your tickets for the Edinburgh University Savoy Opera Group’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at Paradise at Augustines as soon as you can. This heart-warming, hilarious, and spell-tacular musical has come to the Fringe to sell out completely.

A spell-tacular blast of a musical

Brilliantly directed by Beth Cunningham and Hunter King, this production presents six children, played by fully grown adults, competing in their county spelling bee competition with hopes of making it to the final. The hilarious book by Rachel Sheinkin, accompanied by William Finn’s lyrics and compositions, promises a two-hour spectacle for all watching. You can tell how much work Cunningham and King have put into this show together with Emily Paterson, the musical director, and Amelia Brenan, the choreographer.

On stage, we see each of the characters disclose their funny and touching stories about their home lives while dealing with the stress, embarrassing moments, and sad experiences of growing up. We cannot forget to mention the three adults running this competition, who are as humorous and loveable as the children.

The lighting and sound design by Lewis Eggeling and Amelia Brenan were also spectacular, despite a few mishaps typical of live shows, such as performers missing their marks and a few late mic cues. Costumes by Eva Mortensen truly showcased the performers' characters on stage, completing the puzzle piece to this production.

The performers were exceptional to the point where it was hard to choose who to follow. Every character was presented so clearly to the audience. We cannot ignore the brilliant depth of Olive Ostrovsky, played amazingly by Richeldis Brosnan. Her song in Act Two, The I Love You Song, brought tears to my eyes. You cannot help but fall in love with her character as soon as she steps on stage. Ollie Hiemann’s rendition of Douglas Panch was so intricate; you can tell how much time he spent understanding the character’s intentions and development in the show.

This show is a spell-tacular blast of a musical, relatable to anyone watching in one way or another. The audience interaction and inclusion of the band during the show truly make this musical one not to be missed.

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Reviews by Nathaniel A

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Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
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Performances

Location

The Blurb

Please spell 'entertaining'! The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee follows six quirky and sometimes obnoxious students in their quest for the coveted first place trophy. Accompanied by three even quirkier adults, audience members, juice boxes, community service requirements, magic feet, and the unfortunate effects of puberty, the spellers must make their way through a series of increasingly difficult (and hilarious) words, whilst also dealing with their own stressful, embarrassing, or occasionally upsetting personal lives. This show is guaranteed to leave you laughing, crying and wondering if 'hasenpfeffer' is even a real word.
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