The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Tickets at New World Stages / Stage 3

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Six awkward kids, one spelling bee, total chaos. The Tony-winning musical comedy returns at New World Stages in New York.

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The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Tickets

Six awkward adolescents step up to the microphone in this Tony Award-winning musical comedy that turns a regional spelling bee into a hilarious exploration of teenage angst and ambition. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee follows these quirky competitors as they spell their way through personal insecurities, family pressures, and the universal desire to belong. What starts as a simple contest becomes a window into each character's hopes and dreams.

This 20th-anniversary revival brings fresh energy to William Finn's witty score and Rachel Sheinkin's Tony-winning book. The production features Kevin McHale from Glee making his New York stage debut alongside Broadway veteran Ann Harada, who reprises her celebrated role. Director and choreographer Danny Mefford adds modern touches whilst preserving the show's trademark charm and audience interaction that made it an Off-Broadway sensation.

The musical balances sharp comedy with genuine heart as backstories emerge and contestants face elimination. Audiences love the playful engagement woven throughout the performance and the way each character's personality shines through their costume design and individual quirks.

What to Expect at The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

The show runs for 1 hour 45 minutes with no interval, keeping the competitive energy flowing from start to finish. The intimate setting at New World Stages Stage 3 puts you close to the action, making the audience participation feel natural and spontaneous. You'll watch Philippe Arroyo as Chip Tolentino, Autumn Best as Logainne SchwartzandGrubenierre, Leana Rae Concepcion as Marcy Park, and the rest of the talented cast bring these memorable characters to life.

New World Stages offers modern theatre amenities including air conditioning, a cloakroom, bar facilities, and accessible restrooms. The venue is wheelchair accessible and provides hearing assistance devices. The production makes excellent use of the space with Teresa L. Williams' set design creating an authentic school gymnasium atmosphere, whilst Emily Rebholz's costumes perfectly capture each speller's distinct personality.

Before You Go

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is suitable for ages 13 and above. Children under 4 are not permitted in the theatre. The smart casual dress code means you'll be comfortable for the 1 hour 45 minute performance without an interval.

Arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime as late arrivals may not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance. Mobile phones must be switched off, and photography or recording is not permitted. Most theatres stay quite cool year-round, so consider bringing a light jacket.

If you're planning a full theatre evening in New York, you might also enjoy checking out other award-winning productions. The city's theatre scene offers everything from intimate Off-Broadway shows to spectacular Broadway musicals that showcase the best of American musical theatre.

Why you'll love it

  • Six contestants battle it out to become the ultimate spelling champion
  • Tony Award-winning musical that debuted on Broadway in 2005
  • Audience participation puts you directly in the action
  • Hilarious and poignant personal stories unfold between rounds
  • Charming, witty musical that has entertained audiences worldwide

What's included

  • Entry to The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
  • Audience participation segment during the show

Good to know

Age suitability
Suitable for all ages
Know before you go

Show details

Categories: Musical, Tony winner, Off Broadway, Comedy

Audience: Suitable for 13+ yrs

Theater name: New World Stages

Theater facilities: cloakroom, bar, restrooms, drinking water fountain

Theater accessibility: wheelchair accessible, hearing assistance

Dress code: Smart casual

Cast & crew

  • Leading roles: Philippe Arroyo as Chip Tolentino, Autumn Best as Logainne SchwartzandGrubenierre, Leana Rae Concepcion as Marcy Park, Justin Cooley as Leaf Coneybear, Matt Manuel as Mitch Mahoney, Kevin McHale as William Barfée, Jasmine Amy Rogers as Olive Ostrovsky.

  • Director: Danny Mefford

  • Book: Rachel Sheinkin

  • Choreographer: Danny Mefford

  • Music & Lyrics: William Finn

  • Set designer: Teresa L. Williams

  • Lighting designer: David Weiner

  • Costume designer: Emily Rebholz

Additional info

  • This show is suitable for ages 13 years and above. Children under the age of 4 years are not permitted inside the theater.

  • Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!

  • Most theatres are air-conditioned year-round, so it can get a bit chilly. Bring a light jacket just in case.

Frequently asked questions about The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Q: How much do The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee tickets cost?

A: Prices vary depending on seat location and show dates.

Q: Where is The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee playing in New York?

A: The show is running at New World Stages in New York.

Q: How long does the performance run?

A: The show runs for about 1 hour and 45 minutes with no intermission.

Q: What’s the story about?

A: Six eccentric middle-schoolers face off at a county spelling bee, revealing hopes, quirks, and insecurities as the words and stakes get tougher.

Q: Is the show suitable for children?

A: The musical is recommended for ages 13 and above. Children under the age of 4 years are not permitted inside the theater.

Q: What awards has the show won?

A: The original Broadway production won the 2005 Tony Award for Best Book of a Musical and received multiple Drama Desk Awards.

Q: What are some of the popular songs in the show?

A: Audience favorites include Pandemonium, I Speak Six Languages, My Friend, the Dictionary, and The I Love You Song. You can listen to the album here.

Visitor guidelines

Visitor Guidelines for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Arrival and Entry

Arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. Present your mobile ticket at the entrance. Late arrivals may not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance.

During the Performance

Mobile phones must be switched off or set to silent. Photography, recording, and use of electronic devices are not permitted during the performance. Unwrapping candy or making noise is discouraged out of respect for performers and other audience members.

Accessibility

Most Broadway theaters offer wheelchair-accessible seating, assistive listening devices, and accessible restrooms. Contact the box office in advance to arrange specific accommodations. Service animals are welcome.

Cancellation policy

These tickets cannot be cancelled or rescheduled.

Where you'll be

New World Stages / Stage 3, New World Stages / Stage 3, 340 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019, USA

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