FPAC Presents THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE

Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) presents The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee this Friday, June 1, and Saturday, June 2, at 8 p.m. at THE BLACK BOX in downtown Franklin. Winner of the Tony and Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has charmed audiences across the country with effortless wit and humor. The PG-13 tale of six socially awkward mid-pubescents finding joy, heartache and a purpose in competing at the regional spelling bee features a fresh and vibrant score by William Finn and an irreverent and wildly funny book by Rachel Sheinkin.

Cast members are Cara Lee Chamberlain (Rona Lisa Peretti) from East Bridgewater; Jason Barney (William Barfee), Lily Barney (Logainne Schwartzandgrubeniere), Charley Eastman (Mitch Mahoney), Aaron Frongillo and Ali Funkhouser (The Parents), Collin Hancock (Leaf Coneybear), and Nick Paone (Vice Principal Douglas Panch) from Franklin; Caroline Merten (Olive Ostrovsky) from Hopedale; Griffin Wilkins (Chip Tolentino) from Walpole; and Susauna Wickstrom (Marcy Park) from Wrentham. Nick Paone directs the production, with musical direction by Hallie Wetzell.

East Commerce Solutions, Inc. is the production sponsor. Tickets are $34, with general seating. The home of the Franklin Performing Arts Company, THE BLACK BOX theater, music and event venue is located at 15 West Central Street. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).