Akeelah and the Bee
Step into the inspiring world of Akeelah Anderson, an 11-year-old Southside Chicago girl with an extraordinary gift for words and a heart determined to rise above every obstacle. When Akeelah discovers her natural talent for spelling, she is thrust into a journey far bigger than a competition—one that tests her confidence, challenges her fears, and unites an entire community behind her dream.
Guided by the tough but brilliant Dr. Larabee and supported by a neighborhood that refuses to let her fall, Akeelah fights her way from the halls of her local middle school to the bright lights of the National Spelling Bee. Along the way, she discovers that true victory isn’t just about winning—it’s about believing in yourself, embracing your gifts, and learning that greatness can come from anywhere.
Filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable characters, Akeelah and the Bee is a moving, family-friendly theatrical experience that celebrates determination, mentorship, and the incredible strength found in young people when a community lifts them up.
Details
Author Bio
Cheryl L. West
Cheryl L. West is an award-winning American playwright whose works center the Black experience, family, community, and resilience. Her plays have been produced at major regional theaters including Seattle Repertory Theatre, Arena Stage, Goodman Theatre, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and many more. She is known for works such as Before It Hits Home, Pullman Porter Blues, Holiday Heart, Shout Sister Shout!, and the stage adaptation of Akeelah and the Bee.
West has also written for film and television, contributing to shows for Disney and Showtime. She is celebrated for her powerful storytelling, dynamic characters, and commitment to culturally rich narratives. She continues to be one of the most significant Black female voices in contemporary American theatre.
Duration
Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
(with one 15 intermission)
Genre/Subgenre
A Contemporary Drama
Time Period/Setting
The play is set in South Los Angeles, specifically the Crenshaw neighborhood. Its tone captures the rhythm of urban community life, the weight of academic pressure, and the vibrant energy of a supportive village that surrounds the characters.