This spelling bee is A-W-E-S-O-M-E, with hefty doses of H-I-L-A-R-I-T-Y. Need a definition? Penfold’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Proper noun. A highly entertaining musical featuring awkward spelling prodigies as they deal with the pressures of their regional spelling bee. From sticky feet to unfortunate erections, the kids (played by adults) wade through their physical and emotional tortures in the course of a single afternoon and a single, glorious prize. Country of origin? Broadway of course, but give this multiple Tony nominee a chance and it’s sure to take up residence in your brain and heart. – Cat McCarrey
Sept. 12-23