Springfield Theatre Centre presents 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

NPR Illinois | 91.9 UIS | By Craig McFarland

Published April 15, 2026 at 9:22 AM CDT

Craig speaks with several members of the cast and creative team about their experiences bringing 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee to the stage. Shelby Bayless, co-director, speaks about her connection to the show and her time in the classroom as a teacher. Hannah Cobb and Julia Rolens speak to their characters and how the show presents challenges universal to all kids. Come relive a bit of your elementary school spelling bee with the cast April 17-19 and 24-26 at the Hoogland Center for the Arts.

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Craig McFarland

Craig McFarland has been podcasting for over a decade as part of The Front Row Network. He’s the co-host of Beyond the Mouse, a Disney-focused podcast, and Peanut Butter and Biscuits, a show dedicated to all things Ted Lasso. Over the years, Craig has interviewed a wide range of guests, including Oscar winners, Olympians, acclaimed creators, actors, and more than a dozen Disney Legends.

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