Akeelah and the Bee

Doug Atchison, original screenwriter
Cheryl L. West, playwright

Akeelah has a crazy passion for words: the more abstruse and labyrinthine, the better. But this gift is almost overwhelmed by the challenge of her daily life in a tough, Chicago neighborhood. Akeelah’s aptitude earns her a spot in the National Spelling Bee, which inspires the people in her neighborhood with her courage and tenacity.

Winner of the AATE Distinguished Play Award in 2016

“The story of Akeelah and the Bee is inspiring and heart-warming.” -Play Off the Page

“As “Akeelah” makes clear, children have potential not just for personal actualization, but also to heal a community. In her rugged, weary community, Akeelah embodies both brilliance and balm.” -Star Tribune