Feature Story and Photos by Larry H. Oskin
The Black Box Theatre in the Clermont Performing Arts Center (CPAC) is host to the ’25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’. Originally produced and directed on Broadway, the Moonlight Players brought it to CPAC to share with the community. This musical comedy shares the story of diverse and crazy mid-pubescents who vie to win the Putnam County spelling championship.
Each of the eclectic entrants disclose humorous and heartfelt stories from their families and home lives. These energetic tweens spell their way through a series of words, hoping to hear “Correct” and not to hear the bell “ding” signaling a spelling mistake. Six spellers compete, yet only one can win.
The Moonlight Players Cast is led by Director Lavonte Rogers. Performers include Nicole Ackle as Rona Lisa Perretti, Manolo Hernandez as Doulas Branch, Nicole Szopinski as Olive Ostrovsky, Becket Wilson as William Barfeé, Tiffany Hyatt as Marcy Park, Mayra Rivera as Logainne as Schwartzandgrubenniere, Oliver Montgomery as Leaf Coneybear, Jeff Sadecky as Chip Tolentino, Kyle Stone as Mitch Mahoney and Kyle Stevens as G. Gus / Carol Dad.
Moonlight Players is a non-profit organization that was originally founded in Clermont by Jan Sheldon and Sara Ackers. Director Lavonte Rogers, notes, “The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee” has been one of my favorite shows. It captures the awkward and humorous moments of six quirky pre-teens as they navigate through the competition.
This cast is jam-packed with talented artists who bring this show to the audience with enthusiasm and dedication. It’s a very witty and humorous musical with plenty of heart!”
Performances are scheduled for April 22, 23, 29 and 30 starting at 8 PM as well as on April 24 and May 1 starting at 3 PM.
Upcoming CPAC Shows In The Black Box: Emmy and Peabody Award-winning Charlie Grinker will present ‘Favorite Moments’ on Friday afternoon, May 13 starting at 2 PM. Ron Feingold will present a musical comedy and music show on the evening of Friday, May 13 starting at 8 PM.
At The Mainstage Theatre: ‘Journeyman’, a tribute to Eric Clapton, will be presented on Saturday, May 14.
Check out all of the additional entertainment coming to the Black Box and Mainstage Theatres.
The Clermont Performing Arts Center is located at 3700 South Highway 27 in Clermont, FL 34711.
To learn more, visit https://clermontperformingarts.com/ or call 352-394-4800.
