Colorado Springs, CO- October 23, 2024- Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) proudly presents its first cross-disciplinary, interdepartmental musical in 20 years! “It has been a joy to see the students and professors from these various disciplines come together in a wacky blended family to tell this story–thematically also about a bunch of highly-driven oddballs,” says Sarah Sheppard Shaver, Chair of the Theatre Department at PPSC. This production is a collaboration between Theatre, Music, Dance, and ASL Interpreting Prep Program, ensuring it is inclusive and accessible for all.

This whimsical musical follows an eclectic group of six quirky adolescents competing for the title of spelling champion at the annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. These ambitious spellers and their eccentric adult hosts navigate the ups and downs of the competition as one-by-one they are eliminated. Who will win this year? Through catchy songs and heartfelt moments, the story explores themes of friendship, perseverance, and the pressures of growing up.

The community of Colorado Springs and beyond is invited to a performance that will bring you back to the joys and tribulations of adolescence and the shared experiences that make us all human. Approximate rating PG for mild adult language and discussions around puberty.

PERFORMANCE DATES: November 7th, 8th, 9th, at 7:00pm November 9th and 10th at 2:00pm *ASL Interpreting by PPSC Interpreting Prep Program students will be provided at all performances.   LOCATION: Centennial Campus Auditorium 5675 S Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, CO 80906   COST: General Admission: $10 Students/PPSC Employees/Military/ Seniors: $5 Tickets are available here. *Audience is encouraged to donate non-perishable food and toiletries for the PPSC food pantry.

CAST: Rona Lisa Perretti: Megan Edie VP Douglas Panch: Daniel Salamé Mitch Mahoney: Nickolas Ruíz Olive Ostrovsky: Rowan Vaughn William Barfée: Isaiah Culling Logainne Schwartz and Grubinneire: Emily Solomon Leaf Coneybear: Zachary Teter Marcy Park: Anna Boerrigter Chip Tolentino: Kenneth Gray IV Chorus: Asterion Allen, Bri Forbeck, Joshua Phaneuf, Aline Bukuru   DIRECTION: Director: Sarah Sheppard Shaver Music Director and Conductor: Gayle Grace Choreographer: Stephanie Kobes-Newcomb Piano Accompanist: Shazia Ali ASL IPP Chair and Supervisor: Ilah Jackson Accessibility Services: Jeannie Hazel-DeStefano

About Pikes Peak State College (PPSC): Established in 1968 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Pikes Peak offers associate degrees, certificates in career and technical fields and a growing number of bachelor’s degrees. With four campuses, various off-campus locations, two military education centers, and hundreds of online classes, PPSC provides access to a quality, affordable and flexible education to more than 17,000 students annually with both credit and non-credit classes.