Meet the Spellers: Grant Bowman

Where have audiences seen your work before and what’s coming up next for you?

I’m thrilled to return to Vintage after playing Cliff in Cabaret a few months ago! Over the last year I’ve also been in Carousel (Performance Now), Stonewall (Benchmark Theatre), As You Like It (Shakespeare in the Wild), and Matilda (Town Hall Arts Center). I’m also a part of Shakespeare in the Parking Lot (Denver Center for the Performing Arts), a company of actors/teaching artists that performs abridged Shakespeare plays at schools throughout the Denver Metro area. This summer, I’ll be in Legally Blonde (Parker Arts, Sasquatch Productions) and Twelfth Night (Shakespeare in the Wild)!

What is your favorite aspect of your role within the Spelling Bee team? What makes it unique?

I’m delighted and challenged by William Barfée. He’s brash, odd, and ambitious, yet he goes on a compelling journey that reveals his intelligence, sensitivity, and need for connection. Developing his Magic Foot technique and nasal, lisped voice has been a fun process! I’ve also been avoiding haircuts for the last few months since a big, unruly hairstyle feels right for the role.

I love eccentric roles like this because they give me free rein to experiment, make bold choices, and have fun! I work with kids often, whether in workshops or summer theatre camps, and I admire the commitment, creativity, and sense of freedom that they have—I strive to bring these same qualities to my performance.

Any spelling bee-related memories from your past you care to share?

I participated in two spelling bees, and got second place both times. In fourth grade, I somehow spelled “obsequious” (a word I’d never heard before and have rarely heard since) but got out on “mosque”. In fifth grade, I got out on “heifer”—I also remember that the word pronouncer that year pronounced “Italian” like “eye-talian”.

What would you say to an audience member who’s never seen the show before? Why should they join the pandemonium?

Come see our show for a hilarious, heartfelt experience! This show has a true ensemble cast where everyone has moments to shine. William Finn’s music and lyrics are clever. catchy, and moving, and Rachel Sheinkin’s book brings humor and depth to this eclectic cast of characters. Each performance will be totally unique, since four audience volunteers are recruited to join the spellers onstage and there are plenty of opportunities for improv!

If you don’t know anything about the show, do your best to keep it that way before seeing it—you’ll be in for lots of fun surprises. If you’re already familiar with the show, come see our fresh take on it! This cast and creative team is filled with such dedicated, talented, and lovely people, and I believe we’ve put something really special together. I’ll hope to see you at the Bee!