THE ADDAMS FAMILY

New Mills A.O. & D.S.

Director David Carlile

Musical Director Zoey Vickers

Choreography Carolyn Dent

 

Charles Addams' famous cartoon characters were brought to a larger audience with  the 1964 television series and then as a Broadway musical. All members of the  Addams family are included with these iconic comic strip character being brought to life in this musical adaptation.  There is something about  British humour that just loves pantomime and farce. This show sits comfortable within both genres, the banqueting scene especially. The show is stuffed with tuneful music, and with the TV signature tune woven into the overture, the audience was soon clicking their fingers. The tempo had to be just right and this lively band made sure that this was delivered.

 

This was a well interpreted production, and the creative team delivered the creepy and the kooky atmosphere with all that was necessary. It was “all hands to the pump” by the technicians and the cast resulting in a very pleasing production. Set against an inventive set designed by David Carlile and Terry Barber, the ghoulish proceedings were given that extra edge by Dan Thompson’s lighting design. Most importantly, the sound design, also by Dan Thompson, made sure not a note or word of Andrew Lippa’s words and music was missed.

 

Characterisation and presentation are most important to bring this surreal show to life. With costumes by Thespis Theatrical Costumiers, and the make–up and hair team working its magic, Gomez, Morticia and company were transformed.

 

There is such a broad set of character that a strong set of performers are needed to play them. The ensembles of ancestors were all individuals in their wacky roles.

 

Enter Uncle Fester, who is the musical’s narrator. This child-like, androgynous, loveable, zany uncle was brought to life by Robbie Carnegie. Lurch, the Addams' man-servant, was effectively portrayed by Grant Quigley, complete with communicating moans and groans. Then we were introduced to Grandma, whom we discovered might not belong to the family after all. Beverly Eaves was quirky and full of mischief as the 102 years old centenarian.

 

As the precocious Pugsley, who enjoys being tortured by his sister, Connor Wyse was more than capable playing this dedicated trouble maker. His sister, Wednesday Addams, is the princess of darkness, with all the sullenness of a lovelorn 18-year old. Harlie Farmer displayed Wednesday’s predicament of wanting a ‘normal’ boyfriend.

 

Her love interest is Lucas Beineke. Harry Bloor gave a believable portrayal as the smart Lucas, who comes to terms with the differences between his and the Addams’ family. His parent’s nightmare of meeting his girlfriend’s family is the bedrock of the show's humour. Stewart, the once “Grateful Dead” fan, has become boring and stuffy. His wife, Alice, who speaks in rhymes, gets rid of her inhibitions after drinking Grandma’s poison. Stewart Bowden’s and Jane Eastwood’s madcap capers held the moment as Lucas’s parents.

 

The head of the family is Gomez, of Spanish descent, who is besotted with his wife. He was played by Ian Tyler. Ian had a good rapport with the audience and  perhaps just a little more Latino would have been acceptable.

 

In her first musical role, Emma Taylor, after years of involvement in drama, gave an alluring portrayal as Morticia. Emma played Morticia with just enough deadpanas suggested by her character’s name, but at the same time, was able to introduced her own individuality.

 

Unlike the Beineke’s, you would enjoy being with the Addams’ family and their horrific hospitality.