On Nov. 23, 24 and 25, excitement filled the Black Box theatre as Poly students performed “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” The musical, which follows a group of young students as they compete in a spelling bee, is known for having a small but vibrant cast and audience involvement. In addition to the unusual audience participation, the show was also the first musical Poly has hosted in addition to the Spring production since 2022.
“Spelling Bee” allowed the actors to explore comedy and a cabaret-style performance. Junior Casey Gmelich played William Barfée, a nasal-voiced, indignant character known for his method of spelling where he traces words on the floor with his “magic foot.”
“It’s such a whimsical and unrealistic character to play, which made it so fun for all of us because it’s something that you don’t really see in acting,” Gmelich shared.
Actors also had several opportunities to interact with the audience during the musical, creating an immersive experience. “Guest spellers,” who included six teachers and three fifth graders over the course of the three performances, were picked to spell onstage and dance with the cast during group numbers such as “Pandemonium.” When they inevitably misspelled a word, the guest spellers got a sympathetic hug and juice box from “Comfort Counselor” Michelle Mahoney, played by junior Alexandra Tan. In the song “My Unfortunate Distraction,” freshman Jaden Pranyoto, who played Chip, threw candy to the audience as he professed his love for Marigold, a character represented by an audience member.
When asked what the highlight of his experience directing the musical was, Upper School Performing Arts Director Sam Robinson shared, “Seeing the growth of the performers as they connected to their characters and fully engaged in the choreography, music and comic style of the show.”
Junior Sophie Converse and sophomore Amira Shamsi helped with choreography and assistant-directed the show, selecting songs to choreograph at the beginning of rehearsals. Junior Tara Parsa also supported the show as assistant choreographer.
In order to promote the show, cast members visited fifth-grade classes, performed a few numbers and put together a spelling bee for the students. The winners had the opportunity to be guest spellers on closing night.
While it’s not certain that the next fall production will be a musical, the success of “Spelling Bee” makes it likely that the theatre department will consider fall musicals in the future.
In the meantime, students can look forward to the Performing Arts Department’s winterplay, “The Importance of Being Earnest,” with shows on Feb. 5, 6 and 7.
