Encore Theatre Productions presents THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE

Encore Theatre Productions brings the contemporary musical The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, music and lyrics by William Finn and book by Rachel Sheinkin. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will be performed at Elgin Academy in the Kimball Street Theatre, 350 Park Street, Elgin, IL. Performances are: September 21, 23 at 7:30pm; September 24 at 3 pm. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and students. To purchase tickets, please go to our website at www.encoretheatreproductions.com, or at the door.

Director Konnie Kay Sherry Granquist says, "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is about 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 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; one speller leaves! A riotous ride, complete with audience participation, "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" is a delightful den of comedic genius."

The cast includes Anthony Berg, Frank Caputo, Sarah Haverty, Jessica Means, Sarafina Monteleone, Joseph Pilka, Josh Radde, Eric Richter, Bill Sherry, Thomas E. Squires, Shaina Summerville, and Emma Widlowski.

Encore Theatre Productions was started by Dr. John Slawson, the company's artistic and music director, along with Konnie Kay Sherry Granquist, the show's director. The two are fresh off of their successful run of "Forever Plaid". They have worked collaboratively for 20 years with Elgin Community College. They continue their commitment to provide excellent theatre to the Elgin area.