The Addams Family

The Addams Family has its roots in a series of cartoons in the New Yorker in the late 1930s, and developed through television series and film franchises, not to mention books and video games.  The musical premiered in 2010, and its clearly delineated characters and gothic vibe make it a good choice for companies like MYCO.

The real strength of the Musical Youth Company of Oxford has always been in its depth of quality, and “The Addams Family” was no exception.  The ensemble of ghosts had all assumed individual characters and backstories, which in many cases were clearly projected through movement and dance.  The choreography had the variety and fluidity demanded by this style of presentation, with the class of the best dancers evident in their graceful extensions.  The company was subdivided as necessary into smaller troupes, and I particularly enjoyed the line of tap-dancing grim reapers, and the inclusion of some dancing couples.

The costumes were excellent, with thematic use of style and colour, and sufficient distinctiveness to complement individual characters.  Make-up and hair design added a great deal to the visual impact of the show.  The Director, himself a former member of MYCO, did a terrific job drawing impressive performances out of this hugely talented company to present such an entertaining musical.

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