A group of talented NASH students put on a spectacular show this past weekend, captivating the audience and taking them on an emotional rollercoaster in North Allegheny’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. 

The show began in a flashback, as Jules Romanelli, playing Rona Lisa Peretti, was transported back in time to her past Putnam Bee win. She then introduced the six spellers.

Chip Tolentino (Logan Gobbel), Logainne Shwartzandgrubeniere (Katie Klinefelter), Olive Ostrovsky (Cate Maldia), William Barfee (Brendan White), Marcy Park (Ashley Williams), and Leaf Coneybear (Evan Wilson) took the weekend audiences on an entertaining ride through the high-intensity bee. 

Each has their own story and motivation for being in the bee. While some are after their parents’ validation, others are there by luck, and some just because they really love spelling. 

However, the meaning behind the show is far deeper than a spelling bee. In the span of two hours last Saturday and Sunday, audiences traveled alongside these characters on journeys of self-discovery and acceptance.

By all accounts, the actors also had a blast getting to be part of the production. 

Cate Maldia, who played Olive Ostrovsky, was thrilled when North Allegheny announced their 2022 fall production.

“I was so excited to do Putnam,” Maldia said. “I had loved the show ever since NA did it several years ago. I immediately knew that this cast was something special. The positive energy was always there, and I loved coming to rehearsal.”

Not only was there an abundance of talent on stage, but the strong trust and chemistry between the actors added to the whole experience, especially in light of the fact that some of the actors were new to the stage. 

Putnam was junior Avery Neely’s first musical.

“Trying something new for the first time is always nerve-wracking,” Neely said. “I am so grateful for all the people I met who made this such a great experience.”

When asked about the production following Saturday evening’s performance, Stage Director and chorus teacher David Schmiech had nothing but positive things to say. 

“I feel our production was representative of the concept of the show: goofy, spontaneous, and endearing,” Schmiech said. “We have an amazing cast of students who are not only talented but humble and collaborative. Our team of directors is a dream. We have so much crossover in our skill sets and truly enjoy putting on shows with students. This is one of my all-time favorite musicals, and I had a blast putting it on with this group.” 

This musical was definitely an audience favorite. Its high-energy songs paired along with emotional ballads captured the audience’s hearts and attention.

Silvia Bertucci, a junior at NASH, saw the show on opening night. 

“I thought it was a really unique show,” she said. “All of the actors were so talented and put on a really great show. I think it was one of the best NA musicals I have seen.”