English
English
1 hr 45 min with no interval
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The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Opening on Nov 17, 2025
DURATION
CLOSING DATE
Until February 15, 2026
AGE LIMIT
Suitable for 13+ yrs
from
$106.80
AboutVenueTickets
Why watch The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee?
- A witty, heartfelt musical that balances comedy and teenage angst, letting the contest be the stage for personal stories and growth. It is led by Tony Award-winners William Finn (music & lyrics) and Rachel Sheinkin (book).
- Directed and choreographed by Danny Mefford (Dear Evan Hansen and Fun Home), this production marks the 20th-anniversary revival in New York, bringing fresh energy to a beloved classic.
- The new cast features Kevin McHale (Glee) in his New York stage debut, ensuring seasoned talent for this quirky classic. He is joined by Broadway regulars like Ann Harada, reprising her iconic role.
- Running at New World Stages, the production harnesses its intimate space to spotlight the cast’s performances and Finn’s witty, heartfelt score. Book The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee tickets in New York now!
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee revolves around six quirky adolescent competitors who battle for spelling glory and try to navigate the pitfalls of growing up. The show originated Off-Broadway in 2005 and soon earned a Broadway transfer, winning Tony Awards for Sheinkin’s book and earning praise for Finn’s score. In this revival, the direction and choreography by Danny Mefford add subtle modern touches without losing the show’s core charm. Expect lively staging, playful audience engagement, and character costumes that reflect each speller’s personality.
Storyline
At a regional spelling bee, six hopeful contestants, each with distinct personalities, insecurities, and dreams, step up to the microphone, striving to spell their way to victory. Behind the words are stories of family pressure, ambition, and belonging. As the competition advances, contestants’ backstories and motivations emerge, and audience participation weaves into the performance. Will one speller emerge triumphant, and at what cost?
Show timings
Show timings for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
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
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
Top songs
Audience favorites include Pandemonium, I Speak Six Languages, My Friend, the Dictionary, and The I Love You Song.
Age & content guide
- 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!
New World Stages Read more
The New World Stages is a five-theater Off-Broadway complex built under the plaza of Worldwide Plaza in Manhattan. Its theaters range in size from 199 to 499 seats, making it ideal for intimate musical productions. The complex features a sweeping lobby, art gallery elements, and a central gathering space where patrons mingle between shows. Many successful productions have played there, including Avenue Q, Jersey Boys, The Play That Goes Wrong, and more.
The New World Stages seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting there
- Bus: The nearest bus stops are 9th Avenue and West 50th Street, which serve the M11 line, and 5th Street and 9th Avenue, which serve the M50.
- Subway: The closest station is the 50th St. subway stop, which serves the A, C, and E lines.
Facilities & accessibility
Available facilities: cloakroom, bar, restrooms, drinking water fountain
Accessibility: wheelchair accessible, hearing assistance
Additional information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets redemption
- You’ll get an instant email confirmation right after you book your tickets.
- Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to the venue by showing your mobile ticket and a valid photo ID – no printout necessary!
Cancellation & refunds
- Tickets cannot be refunded, amended, or rescheduled.
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Frequently asked questions about The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
How much do The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee tickets cost?
The cost of the tickets starts from $106.80 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
What age is the musical appropriate for?
The musical does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 13 years and above. Children under the age of 4 years will not be permitted inside the theater.
Where is the musical playing in New York?
The show is playing at the New World Stages in New York.
What is The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee about?
It’s a comedy-musical about quirky middle-schoolers competing in a spelling bee, each confronting personal challenges and growth during the contest.
How long does the musical run for?
The running time is 1 hour and 45 minutes with no intermission(s).
Who are the main stars of the musical?
The main stars of the show are 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, and Jasmine Amy Rogers as Olive Ostrovsky.
What are the popular songs in the musical?
Expect witty, character-driven songs that balance humor and heart, such as “I Speak Six Languages” and “The I Love You Song”. You can find the playlist here.