Move Toward the Darkness
- Esther McGregor
- Nov 19, 2017
- 2 min read
The Addams Family
Directed by Madeleine Johns, Angela Witcher, and Matthew Bapty
Redcliffe Musical Theatre
Season: November 3rd - 19th The Addams Family musical is the latest production by Redcliffe Musical Theatre at their new permanent venue "Theatre 102". Having been in their two other major productions this year (Back to the 80s and Rokky Horror), I was very excited to experience a show from an audience perspective. From the moment I arrived, I felt the buzz and energy that this venue exudes and I knew that we were all in for an incredible evening.
I came into the theatre and took my seat knowing very little about the characters, the plot, or even the original series that it was based on, but the musical manages to be a standalone story that caters to the unfamiliar and the long-term fan alike. The plot is centred around Wednesday Addams, who is now an adult and has fallen in love with Lucas Beineke, a wholesome young man from Ohio. They wish to announce their engagement, but not until both families have met and have given their blessing.
The cast were strong and the characterisation was impressive - every single actor was convincing in their performance and I found myself totally immersed in the world of the Addams/Beinekes. Led by the suave and charismatic Gomez (played by Reagan Warner), and the sultry, stormy Morticia (Georgia Murray), the cast took us through a night of "meeting the parents" and the results of two not-so-different families colliding. The ancestors (ensemble) worked together beautifully, adding their varied personalities to the stage and ensuring that no corner of the stage was left bare. The show's music was pre-recorded rather than performed by a live band, so credit must be given to all for their incredible timing!
My only criticisms are that occasionally curtains were moved and the audience could see right through to backstage, and there were minor costuming issues such as creased costumes and makeup inconsistencies - the latter however only being things noticeable due to the proximity of stage and audience. Hiccups and glitches do occasionally occur in live theatre, and it speaks to the integrity of the actors when the show continues to go on as if nothing had happened. I have to commend Gomez and Morticia for executing their tango routine impeccably, even with a microphone pack malfunction midway through.
I wish I could say "go buy tickets" but tonight's show is unfortunately the last of the season and I believe it has sold out completely. Redcliffe Musical Theatre have yet again produced a wonderful piece of theatre and I look forward to seeing what their 2018 season brings!
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