Review: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at Backdock Arts

Review by Yasmin Elahi

Hanson Creative’s latest show is the zany Broadway musical ‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’. Written by William Finn, whose catalogue includes ‘Falsettos’, this show centres around a primary school spelling bee. With audience participation, oddball humour and beautiful orchestrations, this show is a wonderfully good time.

Director Emma Hanson has outdone herself, also serving as the show’s choreographer. The intimate venue proved perfect for the show, inviting the audiences right into the action. Hanson cleverly used the small stage and intelligently blocked scenes and full-scale dance numbers. ‘Pandemonium’ and ‘Magic Foot’ were particular choreographic highlights. The use of alphabet blocks to form the set was a clever and practical choice that provided a great amount of visual interest to the stage.  Hanson must be commended for assembling a truly perfect cast. The casting of this show is spot on, with each performer seemingly made for their roles. 

Benjamin Richards handled the deceptively difficult score with ease. Littered with complex harmonies and peculiar timing, Richards clearly worked diligently with the cast, as their confidence navigating the score was evident. Richards also led the four-piece band who brought the intricate music to life. Special mention to Britney Evans-Mackay for her beautiful performance on reeds.

Kimberley Richards was lovely as Rona Peretti. Her motherly characterisation was natural and believable and vocally she excelled. As the character responsible for driving the action, Richards took command of the stage and audiences were safe in her capable hands.

Caleb Hockings excelled in the role of Douglas Panch. His acerbic comedic timing was perfect and his accent strikingly consistent. Vocally, Hockings was very strong giving a polished performance throughout.

Varni Keioskie was spirited as Marcy Park. Her performance of ‘I Speak Six Languages’ was sassy and energetic. Vocally, her voice was pure and strong and it would have been wonderful to hear more from Keioskie.

Lara Anderson was empowered as Logainne Schwartzandgrubenierre. She took command of the stage and her performance of ‘Woe Is Me’ was confident.

Isabella Hansen was funny as Mitch Mahoney. Though asleep for most of the show, when she was awake, her moments on stage were memorable.

Alicia Lorie was wonderful as Leaf Coneybear. Their characterisation was multi-faceted and their commitment to character all-consuming. Their performance of ‘I’m Not That Smart’ was vocally and physically commanding.

Dominic Ambrose was exuberant as Chip Tolentino. His bright and clear vocals excelled in the opening number and his performance of ‘My Unfortunate Erection’ was solid and hard not to enjoy, though at times the band drowned out his lyrics.

Reid McWha was exceptional as William Barfee. Every ounce of his being was channeled into his performance. Physically, vocally and emotionally McWha was the character. ‘Magic Feet’ was a standout number. Vocally, he more than lived up to the fantastic character he brought to the stage. A truly triumphant performance.

Finally, Megan Hargraves was beautiful as Olive Ostrovsky. As perhaps the most normal of the spellers, Hargraves brought the heart to this show in spades. Her acting choices were incredibly sincere and her performance of ‘The I Love You Song’ absolutely heartbreaking. That was definitely the highlight of the night, a truly professional standard performance from Hargraves, Richards and Ambrose that frankly deserved a standing ovation. Their vocal performances, coupled with Hanson’s directorial choices combined to create a truly incredible moment of theatre.

Ultimately, Hanson has assembled a truly perfect cast who are incredibly talented and well suited for their roles. Coupled with very clever directorial choices and Richards’ expert handling of the score, this production is pretty much as close to perfection as live theatre can get. A huge congratulations to all involved for creating a piece of exceptional theatre that proves that a small scale production in a tiny venue can result in a very professional show.

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