Kevin McHale to Make New York Stage Debut in ‘Spelling Bee’
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Kevin McHale, best known for his role in the popular TV series Glee, is set to make his New York stage debut in the 20th-anniversary revival of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. The Tony-winning musical comedy will return to Off-Broadway this fall with McHale taking on the role of William Barfée, a quirky and lovable speller with a unique talent.
The limited 14-week production, scheduled to begin previews on Nov. 7 at New World Stages in Manhattan, will officially open on Nov. 17 and run until Feb. 15, 2026. McHale, 37, is excited to step into the shoes of his character and bring his own interpretation to the stage.
Joining McHale in the cast are Philippe Arroyo as Chip Tolentino, Leana Rae Concepcion as Marcy Park, and Justin Cooley as Leaf Coneybear. The production boasts a talented ensemble of Broadway up-and-comers who are sure to bring energy and charisma to the stage.
Directed and choreographed by Danny Mefford, the revival of Spelling Bee promises to be a delightful tribute to the beloved musical. With a vibrant score by William Finn, the show follows six young contestants as they compete in a spelling competition, revealing touching and humorous personal stories along the way.
Originally developed Off-Broadway in 2005 before transferring to Broadway, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has become a fan favourite over the years. The upcoming revival marks a special milestone for the show, celebrating two decades of enchanting audiences with its heartwarming storyline and catchy tunes.
Fans eager to secure their tickets for the revival can sign up for the presale at spellingbeenyc.com. General ticket sales will commence on July 25, offering theatre enthusiasts the chance to witness McHale and the talented cast bring this beloved musical to life on stage.
McHale’s upcoming New York stage debut comes on the heels of his successful career in television and film. Having showcased his talents in various projects, including The Office and American Horror Stories, McHale’s venture into live theatre is highly anticipated by fans and critics alike.
As McHale prepares to dazzle audiences with his performance in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, theatre enthusiasts can look forward to experiencing the magic of live theatre brought to life by a talented cast and creative team. Stay tuned for more updates on the revival and be sure to grab your tickets for this must-see production.