The 2nd Annual Smartypants Adult Spelling Bee is coming up on Monday, June 23rd at Mayne Stage. Between now and then, we’ll be highlighting some of the competitors hoping to destroy the competition. Today, we meet Edward Thomas-Herrera.
Q: Tell us a little about yourself.
A: Originally from Houston, Texas, I have been a writer, performer, director, producer working in Chicago for the past 25 years. I am one of the founders of BoyGirlBoyGirl, a solo performance ensemble. By day (i.e., for money), I sit at a computer, read e-mails, and move papers from one side of my desk to the other.
Q: How many Spelling competitions have you taken part in? Any specific experience(s) you’d like to share?
A: Since reaching adulthood a very long time ago, I have not spelled competitively. Back in grade school, I used to kick spelling ass on a regular basis. Between Comanche raids.
Q: What motivated you to sign up?
A: My legal spouse thinks I’m a good speller. I hope to prove him right. Maybe then he’ll start listening to me when I suggest what color we should paint the living room.
Q: What gives you an edge over the other contestants in this year’s Smartypants Spelling Bee?
A: When I hear a word, I can “see” it in my mind’s eye. Spelled correctly, of course. I also wear colorful pants.
Q: Anything else about yourself that you’d like to share with the world?
A: Blue. A robin’s egg blue. It’ll make the room look bigger while contrasting nicely with the rust-orange curtains and the brown couch.