As children, many of us enjoyed the thrill of competition in our schools’ spelling bees. Although the premise is similar, The Literacy Council of Buncombe County’s Spelling Bee is not your average word challenge. At The Millroom on Thursday, April 14, beginning at 6 p.m. emcee and comedian David Ostergaard will host the event, which combines literacy, costumes, and entertainment.
Literacy Council executive director Ashley Lasher tells The Laurel, “Each year we choose a theme for the bee that will provide another element of entertainment to the event. (It’s always a play on the word bee.) This year’s theme, ‘The Queen Bee,’ promises to bring a whole new level of pizzazz.” A drag show with featured entertainer Chartreuse will take place at intermission.
Fifteen teams of three will compete in the spelling bee. They will represent area businesses, nonprofit organizations, community associations, colleges, book clubs, and friends. Signed up to participate are teams from A-B Tech, Battery Park Book Exchange, Chai Pani, JB Media Group, Malaprop’s, and UNC Asheville, among others.
“The Literacy Council provides tutors to adults and children who want to improve their reading, writing, spelling, and English language skills,” says Ashley. “The spelling bee fundraiser allows us to enjoy some levity related to our cause. We laugh, mull over outrageous spelling words, and have fun together.”
Teams are responsible for fundraising a $250 entry fee. Prizes will be awarded to all spellers. Additionally, audience members will have opportunities to win prizes for the best costumes and impromptu spelling abilities.
The Millroom is located at 66 Asheland Avenue in downtown Asheville. Tickets ($10) can be purchased in advance online or at the door. For more information, visit litcouncil.com.
