The Addams Family

A pleasant return to the Webster Theatre after (too many) years of absence. I must thank your District 10 Rep, Sue Kennedy (aka Grandma Addams), for inviting me to review tonight’s show, as she trod the boards.

From the half, Thing (himself) took centre stage in a tight red special, later to be seen whizzing across the stage as required.

Gomez (Darren Paul-Handy) and his wife Morticia (Lynne McIntosh) formed a first class pairing, keeping accents in hand throughout! Their children, Wednesday (Shannon McKenzie) and Pugsley (Nieve Knox) were equally dysfunctional.  My only concern here was that Wednesday was (I presume directed) to be of a happier disposition earlier in the show than I would have expected, but, nevertheless formed an excellent, tortuous, relationship with her brother Pugsley.

Grandma Addams (Susan Kennedy),  providing just a "wee" bit of naughtiness, and Uncle Fester (Kenny Cathro) both added to the entertainment with Fester’s Song to the Moon combining just the right amount of humour and pathos.  Lurch (Finlay McDonald) certainly provided stage presence (also to be seen scaring the living daylights out of audience members FOH, preshow!). His grunts belied a fine singing voice, which tends to come as a bit of a surprise to audience members near the end of the show. The “normal” principals  Lucas (Ruaridh Mathieson), Alice (Jessica Pass) and Mal Beineke (Grant Roach) were perfect foils for the madness that is the Addams Family.  Jessica’s scene in Full Disclosure when she drinks the potion meant for Wednesday, was particularly hilarious. The Society’s chorus, all costumed in stunning ancestral garb, popped up at odd times to view the action taking place, whilst, as an ensemble, provided excellent backings for the principal singers.

Technically the show worked well.   Again, the fact that I referred to above, arose with the set, which in my view maintained too much normality (particularly in colour), than I would have expected. Lighting was thoughtfully designed and well cued, while sound and sound effects were excellent throughout. Make-up and costume were very well designed and completely appropriate for the show.

Congratulations to the Production Team especially Richard Allan and his live “Family Band”, for the making of a fine evening’s entertainment!

Thank you for inviting us along!

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