The Putnam Spelling Bee has been on my 'bucket list' of shows to do, since I first saw it back as a teenager. My mom was very supportive of her 'acting' son, and wanted to do her best by exposing me to as many different types of shows as possible. Back then I only really wanted to watch or be a part of plays. Musicals weren't on my radar, really, more of a fun escape that I never saw myself being a part of, let alone direct. However, when I saw Spelling Bee, I was blown away by the spot-on satire of these 'kids' struggling to find themselves in the world, all while competing in a highly competitive spelling bee. It was absurd! And yet utterly relatable.    

       It was also the first time I had seen the melding of improv and audience participation in a musical! Having done lots of improv training, I was blown away by the possibilities the show presented. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be able to direct this influential show, and I hope people take advantage of the chance to catch this hilarious take on the coming-of-age tale. "