The 25th Annual Putnam Valley Spelling Bee opened to a full house Thursday in the James Africano Auditorium at New Milford High School. Directed by Jonathan Silver (NMHS '05), the musical is packed with lively tunes and lots of laughter.

When he decided to present this musical, Silver had described Spelling Bee as "more of an event than than a show." And right he was. The musical invites participation from audience members and allows them to be on stage as spelling contestants. Opening night featured Chief of Police Frank Papapietro, BOE V.P. Dan Conner, Rolando Diaz and Jennifer Deitz as guest spellers.  

Directed by Jonathan Silver, Choreography by Megan MacPhee, Musical Director Jane Swarctz, Producer Emeritus Rose DePoto and Alexander Diaz, Producers Ruth Beiner and Nicolette Perna, and Lighting Design by Rob McClure.

The show will be performed in the James Africano Auditorium at New Milford High School at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $20, $10 with NM student ID, and can be ordered by emailing NMHSmusical@gmail.com or calling Nicolette Perna at 201-262-0172 ext. 2243.