Derby Dinner Playhouse to Host 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

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Derby Dinner Playhouse will present the Broadway musical comedy The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee from February 18 through March 29, 2026. The show, which won the Tony and Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, follows six quirky spelling champions competing for spelling glory, with select audience members invited to compete alongside the cast during each performance.

Why it matters

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a beloved and acclaimed musical that celebrates the joys and challenges of growing up and standing out. Derby Dinner Playhouse's production will bring this heartwarming and hilarious show to audiences in Clarksville, Indiana, providing a unique theatrical experience with its interactive element of audience participation.

The details

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee was written by Rachel Sheinkin, conceived by Rebecca Feldman, with music and lyrics by William Finn. Derby Dinner Playhouse's production is directed by Tina Jo Wallace, with choreography by Mollie Murk and musical direction by Scott Bradley. The cast includes Jillian Prefach Baker, Kasey Kraft, Kate Drury, Kristin Yates, Tai Rosenblatt, Zachary Burrell, Kyle Braun, Chris Bryant, and Shaquille Towns.

• The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will run from February 18 through March 29, 2026.
• The show will be performed at Derby Dinner Playhouse in Clarksville, Indiana.

What’s next

Tickets for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at Derby Dinner Playhouse are on sale now. Performances run from February 18 through March 29, 2026.