Limestone Theatre, Gaffney Little Theatre To Hold Auditions For "Putnam County Spelling Bee" Musical Comedy

Limestone University Theatre, in partnership with the Gaffney Little Theatre, is hosting open auditions September 19-20 for an upcoming production of the musical comedy “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.”

Auditions, which will start each day at 6 p.m., are open to all Limestone University students, faculty, and staff, as well as members of the local community. Auditions will be held at Limestone Theatre, located inside the Bob Campbell Field House, at 130 Leadmine Street in Gaffney. For more information, email Dr. David Thompson at dthompson@limestone.edu or call 864-488-4510.

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” production will take place November 4-6, under the direction of Julie Skrzypek. Thompson is serving as the musical director.

The production is a collaboration between Limestone University Theatre and the Gaffney Little Theatre. After over 20 years of occasional association, the two organizations are entering into an official relationship that will provide the Gaffney Little Theatre with performance space at Limestone, and the University students will now be directly involved in Gaffney Little Theatre productions.

“Gaffney Little Theatre is thrilled about a new partnership with Limestone Theatre,” Patty Bloomer said on behalf of the local organization. “The prospect of a new home for Gaffney Little Theatre will provide new and exciting opportunities for our community, as well as for the Limestone University theatre students. The possibilities are endless.”  

At the two-day auditions, actors will also have the opportunity to be considered for a Spring 2022 show that will be written and produced by Limestone graduating senior students. That production is expected to take place in April.

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.

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 speller leaves! At least the losers get a juice box.

A riotous ride, complete with audience participation, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” is a delightful den of comedic genius. The small cast and unit set make this a perfect option for high schools or community theatres. The “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” is a fast-paced crowd pleaser and an instant theatre patron favorite.

Set to serve as the director for the production at Limestone Theatre, Skrzypek holds a bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts from Clayton State University. She has directed at Synchronicity Theatre, Dallas Theatre, Essential Theatre, Emory University, and Clayton State University, as well as partnered and stage managed with many Atlanta Theatre’s along with Flying Carpet Theatre (New York), MAPP International (Los Angeles) and Chez Bushwick (New York).