From the moment we were warned in no uncertain terms to turn off our mobile phones and then “promised” a miserable night, it was clear that normal was going to be turned on its head during The Addams Family – A New Musical.
This theatre production brings back to life all the memorable characters from the 1960s TV program.
The cast has been cleverly chosen: they are so like the originals, including Wednesday, who has transformed from a little girl into a love-struck young woman. Gomez (Michael Coumi) and his gorgeous “cara mia” Morticia (Emma Bargery) sizzle. Uncle Fester (Jamie Hornsby) is so much fun as he hams it up, and the aforementioned delightfully weird Wednesday (Sophie Lee Hamilton) has mastered a disturbingly unnerving stance and stare. Each family member gets their moment in the sun. Or rather, moon.
This is a fabulous family show (even though Gomez did find it difficult to keep his hands off Morticia in that glittering, figure-hugging outfit). And it’s all about family values: you know, the usual stuff – torturing your young brother, giving advice on poisons and potions to your grandson, and sinking your teeth into your spouse.
A love story bringing together the Addams family and the stitched-up Beinekes from Ohio was never going to be cruisey, and the fateful “in-law” dinner is the catalyst for events that blur the lines over which lot is indeed normal.
The stage settings, the costumes and make-up, the lighting and the live orchestra are all outstanding, and the wonderful assembly of Addams ancestors locked out of the Crypt provide an ethereal, other-worldly atmosphere.
The whole cast clearly enjoy every moment of this musical, showing their talents not only at acting, singing and dancing, but also providing many laugh-out-loud moments.
Go on. See the show. The cast knows you are just dying to meet them!
Matt Byrne Media is presenting The Addams Family – A New Musical at the Arts Theatre until July 12 and then at Elizabeth’s Shedley Theatre from July 17-19 and 24-26.
