June Events Announced at THE BLACK BOX

An award-winning musical and renowned blues artist highlight the lineup of June events at THE BLACK BOX theater and music venue in downtown Franklin.

On Friday, June 1 and Saturday, June 2, Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC) presents The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Performances are at 8 p.m. 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 several socially awkward youngsters 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. FPAC's production is sponsored by East Commerce Solutions, Inc. Tickets are $34, with general seating. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

Electric Youth (EY) 2018 returns to THE BLACK BOX on Saturday, June 16 at 7:30 p.m., offering family entertainment with music for all ages. Backed by an eight-piece band of world-class musicians, Electric Youth delivers high-energy music, featuring pop, classic rock, Broadway and country hits. The event is a Bon Voyage concert for Electric Youth, coming just days before the ensemble departs on June 21 for a 25-day concert tour of Austria and Italy, including a 4th of July performance at Aviano Air Force Base. The EY show at THE BLACK BOX will feature fully choreographed performances of Ariana Grande, Meghan Trainor, Elvis, J. Geils, Aretha Franklin, Bruno Mars, The Who, Guns N' Roses and more. Tickets are $26. Table reservations for parties of six or more will be accepted until June 1. To reserve a table, call 508-528-8668 once tickets have been purchased.

On Friday, June 22 at 8 p.m., THE BLACK BOX presents the renowned James Montgomery Band. Growing up in Detroit, James Montgomery learned firsthand from the masters - James Cotton, John Lee Hooker, and Jr. Wells - at the legendary "Chessmate." Over the years, he has carried on in the tradition and continues to be a vital presence in Blues as one of the most dynamic performers on the scene. Montgomery has recorded six albums and toured with major artists including Aerosmith, Bonnie Raitt, Bruce Springsteen, the Allman Brothers, and Steve Miller. Tickets are $25.

The home of the Franklin Performing Arts Company, THE BLACK BOX is located at 15 West Central Street. A cash bar is available. For tickets and more information, visit www.THEBLACKBOXonline.com or call (508) 528-3370.