The Indiana Repertory Theatre has announced its 52nd Season, and we are here for it. The performances celebrate the joy of music and the power of storytelling, kicking off with “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” a musical based on Rachel Sheinkin’s book, and closing with “The Play That Goes Wrong,” a farce directed by IRT’s Margo Lacy Eccles Artistic Director, Benjamin Hanna.
Here’s what Hanna had to say about the opening show, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.”
“I love this tuneful and charming musical! As the Olympics have recently reminded us, the thrill and suspense of competition is intoxicating. Who will be the first to fold? Who will make it to the finish line? With guest celebrity spellers, great music, and a wonderful cast of quirky characters, this musical has a little something for everyone.”
Read on to learn a bit about the shows we’re most excited about, and don’t forget that Maven members get a discount on tickets! Visit Circle for the coupon code. We look forward to seeing you at the theatre.
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE
September 18 – October 13
For anyone else still hung up on the word they missed at their 8th-grade spelling bee and will never forget that “crotchety” is spelled with an “e,” you’ll love this musical based on the book by Rachel Sheinkin and conceived by Rebecca Feldman. Directed and choreographed by Patdro Harris with lyrics by William Finn, we follow as a “motley crew of wonderfully unique and impassioned young spellers each yearn to be the next county champion.” The show promises clever songs, quirky characters, and uproarious humor.
CHARLES DICKENS’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL
November 16 – December 24
One of Indy’s favorite holiday traditions—adapted by Tom Haas and directed by Cara Hinh—“A Christmas Carol” is a sure-fire way to bring all holiday vibes to you and your loved ones. As Jalysa King shared with us back in 2022, Haas was the artistic director of the IRT from 1980 until his passing in 1991 (and once had Meryl Streep as a student!) If this show isn’t on your calendar yet, don’t wait to get your tickets—the performances often sell out.
KING JAMES
January 14 – February 9
In this play Rajiv Joseph and directed by Jamil Jude, two young men—one Black, one white—meet and bond over their love for the Cavaliers, during LeBron James’ rookie season in Cleveland. Their lives go in different directions, but over the next twelve years, their passion for basketball never wavers. Dubbed “a warm, surprising, touching comedy about friendship, loyalty, loss, and the game,” “King James” is perfect for a special date with the basketball-loving kid (recommended for 8th grade and up) in your life.
NINA SIMONE: FOUR WOMEN
February 4 – March 2
Nina Simone, known as the High Priestess of Soul, profoundly impacted the world with her music. During the height of the Civil Rights Movement, her songs became a voice for the nation’s pain and strength. Written by Christina Ham and directed by Austene Van, “Nina Simone: Four Women” envisions a conversation between Simone and three other Black women, exploring how this iconic singer found her true purpose and became a voice for change.
THE GLASS MENAGERIE
March 11 – April 6
Written by one of America’s most highly regarded playwrights, Tennessee Williams, “The Glass Menagerie” premiered in Chicago on December 26, 1944. Now, 80 years later, the show hits the Janet Allen Stage. Set in St. Louis in 1937, the story explores a family’s struggles with their past, dreams, and illusions, and how they find escape their stifling world.
THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG
April 9 – May 11
The IRT had us at “ It’s nothing you want in a show—and everything you want in a show!” Written by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields and directed by Benjamin Hanna, it might be “The Play That Goes Wrong,” but everything about it feels right. There’s an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that won’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines)—and that’s only the first act.
For more info and to purchase tickets, visit irtlive.com.
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