The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee as presented by UL Musical Theatre Society

BELL TABLE THEATRE Limerick 2nd – 5th April 2024 

Adjudication Performance 3rd April.

The Bell Table Theatre in Limerick, a truly unique and exceptional choice for the University of Limerick's musical, "25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee." The theatre stood out with its modern design juxtaposed with the historic exterior of this charming building. The intimate and cosy atmosphere, reminiscent of a 'homely' feel, was a resounding success with everyone. The beautifully designed tiered seating ensured that every audience member had a superb view. This theatre was a harmonious blend of old and new, and a delight to experience. Front of House was, efficient, and organized, and managed this venue and its audience well. There was fun, laughter, noise, and a lovely, relaxed feeling to this team from the moment I arrived at the door. 

The Director was Alison Kearney. Ms Kearney, your direction was clever. I loved the seating blocks and the intelligent use of the cards hanging around the cast's necks for the use of the numbers. The individual characters, such as the eccentric Leaf Coneybear, to the studious and serious Marcy Parke, to name but just two of these characters. They were developed and directed so very well, being both diverse and different, and the clever direction in how every character evolved, shone a spotlight on Ms. Kearney’s attention to character detail. The show's pacing was spot-on, slick, and moved quickly but always allowed time for the audience to laugh. The staging, given the small space, was simple yet dynamic and engaging, and the performances from your cast were outstanding. I would have liked a little more of an imaginative set, as, although it was functional , I feel that there was an opportunity missed to shine here. I was particularly impressed with how Ms Kearney handled the more sensitive moments in the show, such as Olive’s loneliness, bringing a real sense of heart and emotion to the story. The ability to balance the comedic and dramatic elements of the show was truly very good. 

The Musical Director was Micheal Young. This Orchestra under the baton was set behind the cast and on the stage at the cast level. Small in number but big in quality, the Musical Direction and quality of the Orchestra were outstanding; I was thrilled to learn that this was the Company's first year of using a live orchestra. This is a significant achievement for a young Society and a clear indication of the bright future of this talented group. Mr Young's leadership and advice were instrumental in this achievement, and it is a huge step to move from backing tracks to Orchestra. It is also a significant step in the right direction, building your society similarly to the building blocks the cast was seated on for the production. Mr. Young's accompaniment was excellent, and his dedication to bringing out the best in his musicians shone through on every note. The musical performances were outstanding, and it was a joy to experience the Society's first-rate musical direction under Mr. Young's guidance. 

The Choreographer was also Alison Kearney. Although there was not a significant amount of dance choreography but rather more movement, and lovely pictures were created throughout. The movements together as a group were impressive and added to the humour and mood. “Goodbye” was simply a highlight of this production. The choreography in the scene with William Barfee and Olive Ostrovsky was simple, gorgeous, and enlightening. It was fabulous. 

Zoe Flannery was the Stage Manager. The sets were functional, but I did feel they lacked creativity and imagination. While they provided a suitable backdrop for the performers, they did not add anything extra to the overall production. I would rather have seen the stage filled in a little more with some additional set, even small things such as a window, projection, or pillars. More variety in the sets' design and construction would have helped create a more immersive experience for the audience. However, the sets were well-constructed and served their purpose.

The lighting design was excellent and greatly enhanced the story, atmosphere, and mood. The lighting also greatly emphasized the performers' emotions, and the use of spots on the Spelling Bee candidates was excellent and very effective. 

The sound design was of a high standard. The sound effects were well-timed and used to create a realistic environment for the audience. The music was well-balanced with the vocals, and the performers' microphones were well-adjusted to ensure that every word could be heard clearly. It was most effective when the principals and the Quiz master were asking the questions. It is very well done and exquisitely precise. Bravo. 

The costumes were generally well done. However, there were a few areas where improvements could have been made. The overall design and concept were appropriate for the show and helped to establish the period and setting. However, there were some inconsistencies in the quality of the costumes, with some looking more polished than others. In addition, some costumes seemed a bit generic and could have benefited from more attention to detail to make them stand out.

The makeup and hair design was adequate. The performers' makeup was generally well done, although some had more noticeable makeup than others. A little more overall consistency through the whole company would have made such a big difference. 

The props for this production were generally good and helped to establish the setting and create a realistic environment for the performers. However, there were some inconsistencies in the quality of the props, with some instances where the props did not seem to match the period or setting. With some additional attention to detail and consistency, these elements could have been even more effective in enhancing the production.

Hannah Gilligan played Rona Lisa Peretti's part. Ms Gilligan was the moderator of the spelling bee and a former champion; she had great vocals, great acting, and excellent timing, and I loved her and looked forward to hearing Ms Gilligan speak or sing. This was a fantastic performance, perfectly capturing the character's quirks and mannerisms. Her portrayal was both authoritative and empathetic, and she could easily balance the comedic and dramatic elements of the show. Her stage presence was commanding, and she held the audience's attention throughout the show. 

The part of Douglas Panch, was played by Jared Nadin. He delivered a standout performance, bringing a great deal of humour (with his lack of sense of humour!) and wit to the role. His deadpan delivery and sarcastic comments were consistently very good, and he delivered his lines with outstanding clarity and precision. A pivotal role played to a very high standard. 

The part of Olive Ostrovsky was played by Cayla O’Neill Ruane and was someone I warmed to from the moment this young lady spoke. Ms O’Neill Ruane created a character and a visual of a shy and lonely young girl who finds solace in spelling. This touching and emotional performance perfectly captured the character’s vulnerability and innocence.

Her portrayal was heart-breaking and heart-warming, and she conveyed the character’s emotional depth with great sensitivity.

Milly Mason played the part of Logainne Schwartzandgrubenierre. A young girl with two Dads under tremendous pressure. An exhilarating and captivating performance, and this character glowed from start to finish. 

Luke Tuohy played William Barfee. Mr Tuohy delivered a fantastic performance, perfectly capturing the character's eccentricities and quirks. His portrayal was hilarious and endearing, and he conveyed the character's emotional depth with great feeling but also fun. Great costume, too. 

Kanon Layne Hinson played Marcy Park. She acted this part in a clever way that immediately caught my attention. This was a standout performance from Ms. Hinson, bringing such lovely poise and elegance to the role. Her powerful vocals and confident stage presence were a highlight of the show, and she conveyed the character's emotional depth with great sensitivity and absolute beauty. 

The utterly superb Ethan Doyle played the part of Leaf Coneybear. God you were so funny, so direct, so quirky and I would love to bottle your energy and give some to myself. You were fabulous in this role, a lovable goofball who surprised everyone by making it to the spelling bee. Mr Doyle delivered a fantastic performance here, perfectly capturing the character's innocence and charm. His portrayal was hilarious and heart-warming. 

Cillian Fahy played Chip Tolentino's part. One word. WOW. What a character, what a performer. Your expressions and your solo were just class. I nearly coughed up a lung, laughing at your solo. Your portrayal of a hormonally charged boy who is eliminated from the spelling bee after an unfortunate incident was simply a hit. Mr Fahy delivered a consistently superb performance, bringing tremendous energy and enthusiasm to the role. His comedic timing and physicality were a highlight of the show, and he offered his lines with outstanding clarity and precision. 

Zahraa El Hassan played the part of Michelle. It was a lovely, confident performance with good timing, excellent acting, and a significant part of the overall cast team. 

The chorus numbers were terrific! Every chorus member brought unique energy and enthusiasm to the stage, adding depth and dimension to the performance. The harmonies were impressive, and the movements were synchronized and visually stunning. The chorus choreography was engaging and made the chorus numbers highlights of the show, showcasing the immense talent of the University of Limerick Theatre Society. 

It was a gorgeous venue, a great Society, and an enchanting show with a lovely and excellent production team. Evidently, this team worked well, and I have no doubt they had lots of fun along the way. You carried me along on that wave of yours from the moment I arrived, and I am so very grateful to you all for that after such a long drive. I wish you all well in your many varied futures and hope you maintain your passion for Theatre throughout your lives. Congratulations. 

Caroline Daly Jones

Sullivan Adjudicator 2023 / 2024

Photos by Eoin Gilmartin