The Addams Family

The Addams Family is a musical comedy based on the Addams family characters created by Charles Addams in his cartoons. They depicted a ghoulish American family who loved all things macabre and although numerous film and television versions of the Addams family exist, it wasn’t until 2009 that the musical was first staged in Chicago.

For this production there was a fabulous set, all hand crafted and beautifully painted. There was so much detail, with a spooky tree and ghosts hanging on the proscenium arch and double doors opening out onto a higher level at the back of the stage. Props too were excellent. The Ancestors were all dressed in costumes of varying periods and began the show in the auditorium, wandering amongst the audience as they took their seat and setting the atmosphere for the show to come. I particularly liked their first entrance from below the stage. The principals’ costumes were just right for the characters they were playing, as were each of the Ancestors. Hair and makeup were exceptional with each character having a definite look to complement their gruesome character. A lot of hard work had obviously gone into the overall look of the show and it really enhanced the production. Lighting and sound were also good.

Robert was an exuberant and charismatic Gomez. He had an excellent connection with the audience and fine characterisation. He sang and moved well and very much owned his scenes.

Daisy as Morticia was equally strong and kept in character throughout with the perfect physicality for the role. She also sang and danced well, most notably in ‘Tango De Amor’ and singing up a storm in ‘Just around the Corner’.

Wednesday, played by Victoria, was fabulous with amazing vocals. She gave a sassy and spirited performance and a had strong voice that belied her small stature. A really terrific performance. Her brother Pugsley was played with a mischievous twinkle by Alex. He was an absolute star and performed with total commitment. Together with Wednesday, ‘Pulled’ was one of the show’s many musical highlights, as was ‘What if’.

Chris as Uncle Fester had great stage presence. I loved his rendition of ‘The Moon and me’ as he seemingly floated up into the air towards his beloved moon. A really simple but effective special effect. 

Joanne’s portrayal of Grandma was spot-on and she made the most of some of the best one liners in the show.

Lurch (Tom) gave a strong and assured performance and I loved his platform boots to make him tower above the rest of the cast. His long plaintive groans were a delight and there was a lovely resonance to his voice when we finally heard him sing. A nice cameo too from John as Cousin IT.

The Beineke family, played by George (Lucas), Kevin (Mal) and Terésa (Alice) were a wonderful comedic contrast to the Addams family and all performed extremely well. Alice’s shocking disclosure in ‘Waiting’ was expertly done and she really made the number her own with excellent singing and movement. Another highlight was Lucas’s duet with Wednesday, as they both sang ‘Crazier than you’ with fine vocals.

The Ancestors were well utilised to add interest and humour to the performance whenever possible. They moved well and choreography was well executed and interesting. They were also in fine voice with well-rehearsed harmonies.

Choreographer Eloise added some lovely moments that kept the whole cast in character but provided variation and interest to the ensemble numbers; I especially liked the ballerina on point. It was also lovely to see some younger ancestors included, who all performed well.

Music was provided by a backing track which was skilfully handled and perfectly queued. The singing was well rehearsed by Musical Director David and everyone was in fine voice.

This was a well-directed production by Tristan Carter with his usual eye for detail and never missing the opportunity for an extra gag whenever possible. With a great set of principals, a well-rehearsed and hard-working ensemble and a fabulous set, costumes, hair and makeup, this was a very polished production which was highly entertaining and visually very strong. Everyone involved in marketing the show must also be praised for making sure the theatre was full to the brim, which added to the atmosphere. I’m sure everyone who had the good fortune to see this production will have been as impressed as I was. Congratulations to all involved on a great show. 

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