Welcome to PLAYBILLDER Spotlight, where Playbill highlights shows from educational institutions or regional theatres and special events around the country (who have used Playbill's program-building service). By welcoming these PLAYBILLDERs center stage, we hope to give our readers a more in-depth look at theatre programs that are fostering the love of the performing arts in the next generation and the way theatre lovers are bringing Playbill along for life's big moments.
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This week's spotlight is East Kentwood High School, of Kentwood, Michigan, and their performance of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. The Tony-winning musical follows six hopefuls spell their way through a series of words, while candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives. Featuring audience participation, this riotous ride makes for a hilarious, and fast-paced, crowd pleaser.
English and Language Arts Teacher Scott Mellema shared with Playbill how the diversity of his school district has influenced his choice of shows, why he looks for material that wrestles with social issues, and what show his students are taking to the stage next.
Tell us a little about yourself. How many years have you been teaching?
Scott Mellema: This is my 20th year teaching and directing theatre at East Kentwood High School, which is in Michigan’s most diverse school district.
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
I have been proud to watch my students, year after year, take on the challenge of producing materials created at the highest level of our art form and perform with grace, courage, and determination.
What shows are your kids obsessed with right now?
My district thrives on its diversity and so our show selection during my tenure has reflected those expectations. From The Crucible to The Wolves to Puffs, from Sweeney Todd to The Wiz to The Secret Garden to this spring's The Prom, we have celebrated the eclectic nature of theatre and those who bring it to life.
Tell us a little bit about the production. What made you pick the show?
Plays and musicals at East Kentwood High School are carefully selected on a rotating schedule of genres to allow students to explore and experience a wide range of flavors during their high school career. This fall was unusual for us as we took on a small musical for the first time in place of a traditional play.
How do you choose shows for your students?
We look for material that is relevant and will connect with students. While Spelling Bee is a funny romp on the surface, it also has deep emotional roots that take aim at a variety of social issues facing students today. We are taking this a step further this spring with The Prom, which features material ripped right out of today’s headlines.
How does your school's performing arts program impact your community?
We are beginning a conversation with our community and letting a marginalized student population know that they are seen.
What message do you have for your students as they take the stage?
Regardless of the material, my students take the stage with the understanding of how monumental their accomplishment is and how proud I am of them all. Our job is to tell the story and make it live in the minds of the audience in the moment and beyond.
How has PLAYBILLDER impacted your performing arts program as a resource?
PLAYBILLDER has been a tremendous resource for the program, taking the professionalism of our program to the next level. Along with this, we are being both environmentally and fiscally responsible. While the virtual program aspect was a little different for students at first, they’ve really enjoyed it in the end.
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