Lakeview’s Kevin Parra and Neala Barron Star at Music Theater Works

Lakeview’s Kevin Parra and Neala Barron star in the opening production of Music Theater Works 2024 season, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” conceived by Rebecca Feldman, additional material by Jay Reiss, music and lyrics by William Finn and book by Rachel Sheinkin, is directed and choreographed by Christopher Pazdernik, assistant directed and choreographed by Keely Vasquez and music directed by Michael McBride. Parra understudies the roles of “Leaf Coneybear” and “Chip Tolentino.” Barron plays the role of “Rona Lisa Peretti.”Previews begin February 9 at the Factory Theater, 1623 W. Howard St. Previews begin Thursday March 7 at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts In Skokie, 9501 Skokie Blvd.

Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam
County Spelling Bee has won the hearts of theatergoers across the country with its mix of
wit, wills, and audience participation. Join this group of unique and dedicated students as
they compete for the spelling bee championship that celebrates the pursuit of the ultimate
prize while finding the joy of being oneself.

The performance schedule is Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Wednesdays at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 16 at 2 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. The two performances: Saturday, March 23 and March 27 at 7:30 p.m., are for guests 18 years old and above as words spelled will be of an adult nature and may not be suitable for children.Tickets are now on sale from $39 to $106 with tickets for guests 25 years old and younger available at half-price at MusicTheaterWorks.com or by calling the Music Theater Works box office at the North Shore Center, 847.673.6300. Group discounts are also available for groups of 10 or more by contacting 847.920.5360.