Oceanside Theatre Company presents the Tony Award-winning musical comedy “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” from May 29 through June 14 at the historic Sunshine Brooks Theater.
Winner of the Tony and Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” follows an eclectic group of six adolescents as they compete in a spelling championship, revealing humorous and heartfelt glimpses into their home lives — all while trying to avoid the dreaded “ding” of elimination.
The production features a cast of professional actors and college students participating in the company’s STAGES program, which provides hands-on experience in a working theatre environment.
“One of the most exciting parts of this production is bringing together artists at different stages of their careers. Spelling Bee is a perfect fit — it’s playful, heartfelt, and gives each performer a chance to shine while learning from one another,” Producing Artistic Director Kevin “Blax” Burroughs said.
The cast includes Sarah Jane Salonga as Rona Lisa Peretti, Dallas McLaughlin as Vice Principal Douglas Panch and Riohn Jones as Mitch Mahoney, along with Cooper Ogden, Luis Sherlinee, Em Danque, Amy Oliverio, Carly O’Rear and Wyatt Van Hazel as the competing spellers. Understudies are Loretta Pfaff-Carano, Rachel Dovsky, Iker Leal, Murphy Smith and Zaine Hahn.
Many of the performers are making their Oceanside Theatre Company debut, alongside returning collaborator McLaughlin. Students in the STAGES program rehearse and perform alongside established actors, gaining hands-on experience in a professional setting.
“At its core, ‘Spelling Bee’ is about belonging,” Director/Choreographer Melissa Glasgow said. “It’s zany and full of personality, but underneath is something deeply human — a celebration of individuality and a reminder of how awkward and meaningful growing up can be.”
The creative team is led by Director/Choreographer Melissa Glasgow and Musical Director Richard Dueñez Morrison, with Gabriela LeBaron serving as stage manager. Designers include Michael Wogulis (scenic), Sammy Webster (lighting), Grace Wong (costume) and Geronimo Omabtang (sound). OTC’s Associate Technical Director Nate Cargill oversees props and set dressing, with Nathan Waits serving as carpenter.
Tickets are available at OceansideTheatre.org or by phone at (760) 433-8900.
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