The Addams Family

SODS have produced another ‘new‘ show and I was very interested to see how this cult television show transferred to the musical stage.  Director Sallie Warrington certainly captured the ‘kookiness’ of the original and the Principals all gave strong performances.

Neil Lands (Gomez) was absolutely as you wanted the character to be, and his asides to the audience were just right.  Helen Sharpe (Morticia) gave a terrific performance and looked simply stunning.  Rebecca Wallace shows great promise and her portrayal of Wednesday was spot on.  I think it was Reece Emery who played Pugsley for the performance I watched.  It was difficult to tell under the excellent makeup!  He shows great potential for a performing future and demonstrated great stage presence and confidence. 

The part of Fester seems to have been created for Barry Jones, he brought a lot of pathos as well as a lot of comedy to the role and it was a joy to watch.  Peter Brown played Lurch and although his part was not large, he certainly made the most of it with some lovely comic moments.  Sarah Kelleway played Grandma and, as an experienced actress, she seems to have had a lot of fun with the part, which came across to us in the audience.

Finally to the Beinekes, this ‘normal’ family consisted of Dad Mal, well played by Simon Sharpe; son Lucas, perfectly portrayed by Matthew Giles and Mum Alice, played by Laura Hurrell.  Laura’s performance, as the repressed woman, released by the inadvertent use of the drugged drink, was terrific, for me it was a highlight of the show.

There were two distinct ensemble groups, the on-stage ancestors who sang and danced their way through every number with enthusiasm and style.  And the ancestors in the boxes who, although not able to move much, still produced strong performances.  There were some nice touches of comedy throughout the show.

The band under the control of conductor Stuart Woolner was well balanced and full credit must go to MD Rachael Plunkett for the excellent harmony singing from the company.   Scenery was simple but effective and the overall impression was just right.  Costumes were spot on and I loved the variety of the Ancestors characters.

Overall a great evening’s entertainment.  Thanks you LODS.

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