BY BTL STAFF
Plymouth – Barefoot Productions Theatre celebrates their 11th season with The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, winner of two Tony Awards and the Drama Desk Award.
In conjunction with this show, the theatre will sponsor a clothing drive for the Ruth Ellis Center in Highland Park. New or gently-used clothing, coats, boots, shoes, and warm winter items are requested in adult sizes from small to XXL. These items can be dropped off at the theater on Saturday's or Sunday's Sept. 9-25 from 12-2 p.m. or by appointment.
This musical comedy, known for its hilarious antics, heart-tugging sentiments and songs, is a favorite among theater-goers. With an engaging, tuneful score by William Finn and a sweet, funny book by Rachel Sheinkin, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee causes audiences to fall in love, both with the show itself and its "perspicacious," "jocular," and "effervescent" spellers.
The show involves some voluntary audience participation to compete in the Bee against the actors. The spelling bee announcer is voiced in an ad-lib, improv comedy style that develops running gags throughout the performance – with plenty of opportunity for some R-rated humor at this age 16 and over show (known as "Parent-Teacher Conferences" or "Adult Night at the Bee").
Opening night festivities on Sept. 9 include a 7 p.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the a second decade of fantastic theater and a brand new logo, followed by good eats provided by Westborn Market's new location on Penniman in Plymouth. Art lovers can appreciate a new exhibition, Born Under a Northern Sky, by Michigan Artist K.K. Sparks, a silent auction and 50/50 raffle.
The show runs from Sept. 9-25, Friday's and Saturday's at 8 p.m., and Sunday's on 2 p.m. Barefoot Productions Theatre is located at 240 N. Main St. in Plymouth. Tickets: $20. Visit http://www.justgobarefoot.com or call 734-404-6889.
