As a dedicated Ballardite, I often brag about how lucky I am to live in a place that truly has something for everyone when the sun goes down: a movie theater, sports bars, great happy hours, live music, restaurants of every kind, delicious street meat and so much more.

But, one thing I had not yet added to my list: the Broadway experience. So when a coworker told me they were going to be in my neck of the woods to see a musical one evening during the summer, I was surprised to find out there was a live theater basically in my own backyard.

Although I was excited to hear of yet another evening activity here in Ballard, I admit at first I felt a little hesitation. I have not been to a play or musical in many years, and most of my experiences from my youth were at places like the 5th Avenue, and invoke memories of flowered dresses and fancy dinners. Two things I do not experience often these days, by choice.

I need not have feared, however. After a little Yahoo'ing (yes, that's right, I said Yahoo'ing), I realized my notions of theater were skewed by a few "big theater" experiences.

The musical, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” sounded hilarious, and the small local theater, the Ballard Underground, seemed casual and fun. Flowered dresses NOT required.

I arrived on one of the last nights the show was running in my comfiest jeans and was greeted by an intimate space where every seat seemed like the front row and we were cheerfully informed that the bar was open and drinks could be enjoyed at your seat during the show.

I was sold.

Although I could attempt to write a deep, thoughtful review, I will leave that to the experts and just say I laughed and laughed...and laughed some more.

The show centered on six kids competing in (duh) a spelling bee with the hilarious addition of some willing audience members. There were a few very touching moments, and in the cozy space I was close enough to be able to see every facial expression and little quirk the actors used to portray their character, something you miss in a big venue when your seat is 100 feet away.

After the show, I walked up the narrow staircase outside to Market Street and was reminded of one of the best parts of a neighborhood theater - the great location. Your favorite bars and restaurants are just down the street.

After more Yahoo’ing, I discovered that the Ballard Underground is owned by Ghost Light Theatricals and for “Spelling Bee,” they were renting the space out to two production companies.

Looking at Ghostlight’s website, I am excited to see their plans for the new 2010- 2011 season are posted.

First up in November, "A Midsummer Night's Dream," a Shakespearean classic. Fun fact - I actually memorized Puck's speech at the end of the play back in middle school. For some reason I can't remember or imagine now, it was required of all eighth graders.

If you see me at a late-night happy hour, ask me to recite it. It is about the only thing I remember from eighth grade other than braces and Coolio.

After that fun night, I am very excited the Broadway experience, with a cozy neighborhood twist, has been added to the Ballard nightlife arsenal, and I hope to see you all at the Underground for the new season.

Do you have any good experiences at the Ballard Underground, or are there any performances you are looking forward to in the next season? Comment and let us know!

Lindsey Johnson is a devoted Ballardite who loves spending time reading, discovering local eateries and exploring the nightlife Ballard and surrounding areas have to offer. To offer ideas on the latest and greatest activities, email her at ballardafterdark@yahoo.com.