The Wheelock Family Theatre, Boston
October 21 – November 20, 2016
Based on the screenplay by Doug Atchkison
Adapted by Cheryl L. West
Directed by Maura Tighe
Role: Dr. Larabee
Dr. Larabee has more interest in his plants than in people. (PHOTO: Wheelock Family Theatre)
Akeelah and Dr. Larabee discover that rhythm is a key to her spelling memory. (PHOTO: Wheelock Family Theatre)
At the final competition. (PHOTO: Wheelock Family Theatre)
“Whether or not you’ve seen the movie, read the book, or are discovering Akeelah for the first time, the stage play unfolds with a tender universal appeal. The Wheelock production cast is a knock-out! Ramona Lisa Alexander, Johnny Lee Davenport, Keith Mascoll, James Milord, Vincent Ernest Siders and more!”
–Kay Borne, IRNE Critic, in a Facebook post (November 3, 2016)
“Among the adult actors are several wellknown local theater artists: Johnny Lee Davenport, Keith Mascoll, Vince Siders, Farai Williams, Ramona Lisa Alexander, James Milord, and Gary Ng. . . . Linda Chin, who a year ago became WFT’s Executive Director, helms this heartwarming production. See for yourself why audiences are giving “Akeelah and the Bee” an A+!”
–Chris Harding, Dorchester Reporter (November 3, 2016)
“From the lively dialogue to hip hop interludes for scene changes, students cheered, laughed and even sang along . . . the audience was enthralled until the final curtain call.”
–Ling-Mei Wong 黃靈美, Sampan (November 4, 2016)
“The contemporary music, authentic dialogue, and interactions between characters make you feel like you are watching this unfold in your own neighborhood as opposed to on a stage. . . my two boys (ages 6 1/2 & 10) were quickly and easily engaged in the show. My older son was so into it, that he needed to be reminded others were watching numerous times as he vented his agreement or frustrations out loud. During one of the ‘spelling bees’, he shouted ‘That’s not a real word!’”
–Ali Hutchinson, Macaronikid.com (November 11, 2016)
“Long-Sinnott and King shine as the two anchors of the play. While King’s acting balances the drama of the play, Long-Sinnott provides emotional relief and represents a familiar friend that the audience can latch onto for comfort during the play. While many of the other actors and actresses give outstanding performances, too (Davenport, Alexander), King and Long-Sinnott give two of the most memorable performances in the show.”
–Rishka Mehra, BroadwayWorld.com (November 18, 2106)
goldstar Reviews: “The show was great!” –Kristen Morant (October 21, 2016) / “I wanted to see the play after enjoying watching the movie. The play beat any expectation I had going in to it! The music, writing, and actors were so amazing, I’m actually thinking of going to see it again.” –Beth G (October 21, 2016) / “My daughter and I have been going to WFT for the past 5 years and this was our favorite production thus far! The updated theater was great, but the new format of the show with scenic screens and soundtrack that was current, exceeded our expectations!” –Alissa (November 4, 2016) / “Great play . . . as usual Wheelock doesn’t disappoint.” –Angela (November 12, 2016) / “Great cast . . . . It was well worth the visit.” –Honorable JoAnne (November 18, 2016)
Facebook Posts: “In one word it was amazing. The cast blended adults and children, and they did a fantastic job telling the story of Akeelah and the Bee. There was laughter, joy, sadness, and passion as Akeelah made her journey from humble beginnings to the National spelling bee. If you enjoy the theatre and a great story you will not be disappointed.” –Paul Cioffi (October 23, 2016) / “Great show!” –Alicia Juras (October 29, 2016) / A well done show! –Priscilla Fales (November 1, 2016) / “Excellent performances . . . Thoroughly enjoyed it.” –Marline Susairai (November 6, 2016) / “Akeelah and the Bee was amazing! I’m thrilled to have an opportunity to introduce my kids to quality, family friendly, diverse theatre experiences at an early age.” –Amy Sobota (November 20, 2016)