Akeelah has a crazy passion for words: the more abstruse and labyrinthine, the better. But this gift is almost overwhelmed by the challenge of her daily life in a tough, Chicago neighborhood. Akeelah’s aptitude earns her a spot in the National Spelling Bee, which inspires the people in her neighborhood with her courage and tenacity.

Adapted for the stage by Cheryl L. West
Based on the original screenplay by Doug Atchison

Directed by Monét Noelle Marshall

Click here to access the Akeelah and the Bee program!

Produced by special arrangements with Plays for New Audiences

Akeelah out & about!

CBS 17 Feature Story

Thanks to Greg Funderburg and the team at CBS 17 for coming out to Akeelah and the Bee rehearsal on January 25! Check out their coverage of our show in the video below:

WRAL Morning Interview

On January 28, Monét Noelle Marshall (Director) and Brielle Eugene (“Akeelah”) spoke with WRAL’s Ken Smith about our production! Check out the interview below:

WHUP Radio Interview

Monét Noelle Marshall (Director), Brielle Eugene (“Akeelah”), and Deandre Sanders (“Dr. Larabee”) spoke with Wayne Leonard on WHUP FM’s Lights Up! radio show on Wednesday, January 29. Listen to the interview at the 1:20 mark here on WHUP’s website.

My Carolina TV Interview

On February 4, My Carolina aired an interview featuring Brielle Eugene (“Akeelah”) and Deandre Sanders (“Dr. Larabee”). We had a great time chatting with Amber and Trent about Akeelah and the Bee! Watch the interview here on their website or below:

Akeelah and the Bee Study Guide!

Check out this study guide created by Rayden Leeder, dramaturg for Akeelah and the Bee. The guide includes information about the playwright, history on spelling bees, words featured in the show, and more. There are post-show questions to keep the conversation going after leaving the theatre and some fun activities too! Open the PDF by clicking the image below:

Sensory-Friendly Performance | February 15 at 2:00 p.m.

Sensory-friendly performances are designed especially for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, sensory sensitivities, or other disabilities. Sensory-friendly seating is general admission allowing individuals extra space if needed. To provide a supportive and welcoming environment for children and families, sensory-friendly performances include:

• Reduction of loud or jarring sounds
• Reductions in flashing or strobe lights
• Modification of the house lights during the performance
• Accommodated house rules: audience members are free to talk or move during the show
• Extra staff and volunteer support
• Designated “Take a Break Space”

Prepare for your visit!

• A Guide to Attending Sensory-Friendly Performances in the Sutton Theatre
• Welcome to RLT (video) | Parking, Facilities, and Mission

Sensory-friendly support provided by Capital City Civitan Club.

Sponsors

Thanks to RLT’s Family Series Media Sponsor, Triangle Family Magazine.

Additional thanks to North State Bank for their support!