Director's Notes for
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Several years ago I faced a full house at a performance of Broadway's national tour of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at the Buell Theatre in Denver. I was randomly selected to be an audience participant with the professional cast. Sitting on stage I was keenly aware of the sea of faces awaiting their afternoon entertainment. When the lights dimmed I was ushered to the microphone where I was given my word to spell. Ahh, the anxiety... would I botch an easy word? Would I make a simple mistake? Would I embarrass myself in front of a packed house? Did I have spinach between my teeth? Although my own adolescence was well behind me, tose fears manifested themselves in beads of sweat along my brow. I could once again empathize with kids facing a pressure situation, hoping for the best, but fearing the worst.
There are few shows that capture the awkwardness, insecurity and vulnerability of adolescence as well as this one. Spelling Bee masterfully highlights those defining moments when kids look inside themselves for answers to the questions both obvious and subtle. It asks us to consider if the object is to win, or if we win simply by going on the journey.
Since my brief appearance at the Buell, I have wanted to direct this show. Thankfully, I have the privilege to work with such talented and determined performers, technicians, volunteers and colleagues. It's because of them that my directing dream has come true.
Here is the Catwalk Theatre Company's salute to those who have experienced their individual and collective "pandemonium", better known as adolescence. Maybe if will stir some memories in you... I hope so.
~Andre'