Monmouth Community Players to hold auditions for spring show

MONMOUTH — The Monmouth Community Players will hold auditions next month for its spring show, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.”

Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” features a fast-paced, wildly funny and touching book by Rachel Sheinkin and a fresh and vibrant score by William Finn.

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. At least the losers get a juice box.

The musical comedy is a riotous ride, complete with audience participation.

Auditions for will be Sunday, Feb. 4, and Monday, Feb 5, starting at 6 p.m. Rehearsals will begin at 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 19, and run every Monday, Wednesday and Sunday through April. Performances are scheduled for April 20-29.

The production team includes director Josie French, musical director Steve Barter, assistant director Tim MacLeod and producer Cindy Dunham.

There are roles for six actors who play adolescent spellers, including three males and three females. There are roles for three actors playing the adults, including two men and one woman. There are also multiple minor roles for men and women.

All roles are open to actors ages 14 and older. Those auditioning are asked to prepare a 16-bar selection. If the selection is not from the show, please provide sheet music for your audition. All singing auditions will be closed, and will be followed by group readings.

For more detailed information about the show and the available roles, visit the auditions page on Monmouth Community Players website, www.monmouthcommunityplayers.org. Or contact [email protected] or at 207-370-9566.