Middle‑school spellers (played by adults) compete in a quirky audience‑interactive musical comedy.
In a fictional school gym in Putnam County, New York, six eccentric middle‑school contestants vie to become the local spelling champion. As each speller faces increasingly difficult words, personal insecurities, family pressures and humorous quirks emerge—all through unexpected eliminations and heartfelt competition.
Directed and choreographed by Danny Mefford (Kimberly Akimbo, Dear Evan Hansen), the production features music and lyrics by two‑time Tony winner William Finn and a witty book by Tony winner Rachel Sheinkin (with additional material by Jay Reiss).
This 20th‑anniversary revival runs at New World Stages off‑Broadway, with previews beginning November 7, 2025, opening November 17, and closing February 15, 2026. The production is presented by New World Stages under the Shubert Organization banner.
