Spelling Out Success: Emily Vohs Student Musical Director is a H-I-T

Directed by senior Emily Vohs, the’ 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ musical was a huge success for Seton Hill University theatre students. Put on by the Students Theatre Activities Council (STAC), the sold-out show was adored by everyone.

The ‘25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ is an interactive musical comedy that follows a fierce middle school spelling competition. Originally written by Rachel Sheinkin in 2004, the musical is now a Tony Award winner. The musical’s uniquely interactive script includes audience members serving as “Guest Spellers” in the first act and a love interest later on. The quirky musical perfectly blends childhood nostalgia with adult humor to make an unforgettable show.

“I feel like I have been able to forge my own path and really figure out who I am as an artist,”

At Seton Hill, the musical proved to be a huge success for STAC. The club completely sold out their three-show run in March. From the actors, to the stage production, costume design, and everything in between, the show was entirely student-run. “It’s a great opportunity to learn about real budgeting, scheduling, and problem solving,” Vohs said. The musical is now regarded as one the best performances the club has ever put on.

After transferring to Seton Hill, Vohs found a home in the School of Visual and Performing Arts. She is a Musical Theatre and Theatre Business double major, as well as an Orientation Leader, a Commuter Assistant, a member of the SGA Student Senate, and the Social Media Representative for the Pride Coalition.

Vohs feels like she's found herself at Seton Hill. “I feel like I have been able to forge my own path and really figure out who I am as an artist,” she said. She points to her ability to double major after transferring as a big contributor to her positive experience.

Vohs serves as the Vice President of STAC and was selected to direct this show following an interview process. Though she has taken both levels of the directing class offered, and has directed one-act plays, scenes, and monologues, Vohs was intimidated by the undertaking that a musical entails. “A musical felt like a completely different ballgame!” she said. She credits the musical’s wonderful cast, crew, and creative team with helping her be successful in this endeavor. “I feel that directing The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has been one of the most rewarding and valuable experiences during my time at Seton Hill,” she said, “I learned so much about collaboration and who I am as a director.”

Through directing this musical and her classes, Vohs gets hands-on experience in her field. She feels that these experiences, as well as knowledgeable and supportive faculty are preparing her for “endless professional opportunities to come.” Outside of the classroom, Vohs is able to pursue her interests, be a student leader, and play an active role in Seton Hill’s vibrant community.