The Addams Family Musical

On arrival I was warmly welcomed by the front of house management. It was clear some members of the audience had responded to the message of community and connectivity in this show, for a number were dressed in Halloween type costumes, these would have easily identified them as Addams Ancestors. There was certainly a buzz of excitement in the auditorium prior to the performance, matched by the appreciation demonstrated inside this intimate theatre by enthusiastic folk, who were keen to be entertained, possibly because of the absence of live theatre due to the pandemic. They were not disappointed, for this was a ’fun’ show and there were elements that went down undeniably well. The directors deserve much credit for their successful delivery of a musical experience with a quirky concept and the occasional catchy song, such as, “When you’re an Addams.”

The story does lack drama and parts of the script included a couple of vaudevillian one liners, which may not have been understood. Many melodies were forgettable, but this did not detract from the audience’s overall enjoyment of the show; the directors’ choice of casting was spot on and the dedication and commitment to rehearsals paid by the performers seemed to be worth it, for there were some polished moments of entertainment delivered with considered good timing. Scene changes were seamless, and the swift pace was maintained throughout this musical play, due also to the efficient technical crew. The inclusion of musical interludes and lighting effects offered the minimum of detraction from the story and ensured continuity with little interruption. Lighting effects can only be marginally criticised during the dining room scene, when faces were unlit because of the down lighting. The choreography was not ambitious, but it was well suited to the show with exacting steps and gestures; the ensemble was very together. The tango between Gomez and Morticia however, was a bit pedestrian and exposed some limitations of the cast.

The musical followed the famous family who believe, “to be sad is to be happy, to feel pain is to feel joy and death and suffering are the stuff of dreams.” The story is centred on Gomez and Morticia’s eighteen-year-old daughter, Wednesday, who is ready for a life of her own and who has fallen in love with Lucas Beineke, a boy from a normal Ohio family. Wednesday has invited the Beinekes to the Addams family home for dinner. In one night, secrets are disclosed, relationships tested and the Addams family have to face change, something they’ve managed to avoid for generations.

The leading role of Gomez was played by Stephen Venezia, and whilst he was occasionally hesitant in delivery, his strong portrayal of this character was commendable, he was the spine of the show and on stage for most of the time, a herculean task. Gomez was clearly besotted by his darkly comic wife, Morticia, played by Lisa Adams. She was suitably statuesque, disdainful and assertive. She delivered her part with great confidence; her singing revealing a voice with a rich tone and excellent diction. Talented Izzy Oliver, played Wednesday with great self-confidence and conviction. Her singing was pitch perfect, had clarity and was a pleasure to listen to. Her interactions with Lucas, played convincingly by Alex Clark, captured the audience’s attention. Jess Stevens gave a spirited energetic performance too, as Pugsley Addams and had a lovely strong singing voice.

Uncle Fester (Indraroop Chakraborty) was dynamic and performed a very difficult part brilliantly, even when not speaking his reactions, exaggerated movements and expressions were delivered with ease; even managing to get the audience entertained rooting for him and his love of the moon. It was notable too, that whilst his character was a popular one for the audience, he did not upstage anyone. Robin Cooper sustained his characterisation of Mal Beineke, appearing suitably bewildered and yet intrigued by the lack of normality in the unfamiliar environment he was immersed into. Lyndsey Bird appeared as Alice Beineke, his wife. She played a reserved, quiet, gentle role and whilst it was sometimes difficult to hear her in Act 1, when she sang her solo, it appeared to unleash greater confidence with improved voice projection in Act 2

The audience enjoyed their time also in the company of the eccentric, animated Grandma Addams, (Jill Davies) and the grunting Lurch played by Luke Drew. Both were well cast and successfully contributed to give the audience a sense of the unreal.

Matt Hall, the musical director, kept resolute direction of the orchestra and delivered a professional musical experience that was unspoilt by over amplification.

Credit is to be paid to the strong leadership and creativity of the production team, which has truly inspired this strong team of performers, technical crew and musicians to remain determined and committed to rehearsal and preparation for this production. Much has been achieved, well worth the hard work!

Ann Escritt.

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