By McKay Jenkins
Drop all of your previously made plans for this Halloween season and get yourself to The Addams Family at the Draper Historic Theatre. This hilarious musical take on the iconic Addams Family with music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa and book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice premiered on Broadway in 2010 and has been entertaining audiences ever since.
This chapter of the Addams Family’s story follows their daughter Wednesday and her search for love. When she decides to let her new boyfriend meet the family, Wednesday’s plea for a “normal” night turns into an eccentric, outlandish, and macabre night only the Addams Family could provide.
From the moment you enter the theatre, the set and lighting design by Eldon Randall sets an ominous tone. As the production continues, the moody lighting enhances the story and really helps the Addams Family’s story come to life. Randall also provided fast-paced, smart direction for the show. His direction does a fantastic job highlighting the family relationships within the this strange and strangely charming family.
Tony Baca is outstanding as Gomez Addams. He is both hilarious and sentimental when it comes to his interactions with the various family members. Jessica Taylor gives a commanding performance as Morticia Addams. Every time she is onstage, you cannot help but watch her. Her characterization of Morticia is spot on and her dancing skills formidable.
McKayDee Jo McDonald gives a powerhouse performance as Wednesday Addams. This is especially evident in songs like “Pulled” and “Crazier Than You” which really show off her vocals. Matt Williamson is a loveable Lucas and plays well off of McDonald.
Pauline Mendes as Alice and Don Smith as Malcolm, Lucas’ parents, both give energetic performances. Mendes gives a particularly noteworthy performance in Act I Finale “Full Disclosure” when she about blows the roof off of the Draper Historic Theatre with her amazing voice.
Jared Daley turns in a great performance as Uncle Fester. His ability to stay completely in character even when he is not the main focus of a scene is impressive. Thomas Middleton as Pugsley shows just how important relationships on stage are. His scenes with Wednesday are genuine and help drive home the family centered message of the show.
A highlight of the night undoubtedly is Rebekah Ferry as Grandma. Her physicality in the role alone shows just how talented of an actress she is. Not only does she steal the show on stage, Ferry is also the Makeup/Hair Designer and Costume Designer along with fellow co-star Alex Montour who played the emotionless butler Lurch. Ferry’s makeup design in particular is impressive. Costume design by Ferry and Montour is impeccably done, especially considering the need to dress such iconic characters like the Addams Family.
The ensemble shows just how indispensable a great supportive cast is. I was thoroughly impressed from start to finish with their energy and commitment to their unique ancestral characters. Choreography by Bailey Loveless is quirky, sharp, and tells a story of its own. Loveless handles the varied choreographic demands of the show well with impressive choreography for everything from vaudeville inspired moves to fiery tangos.
The Addams Family at the Draper Historic Theatre is the perfect family night out to get in the Halloween spirit. This production has elements that can be enjoyed by every member of the family from grandparents to younger children. It has been a long time since I have had this much fun at the theatre.
Draper Historic Theatre Presents The Addams Family, by Andrew Lippa, Marshall Brickman, and Rick Elice
Draper Historic Theatre, 12366 South 900 East, Draper, UT 84020
October 5-6, 8, 12-13, 15, 19-20, 22, 26-27, 29, 2018, 7:00 PM Mon, Fri-Sat.
Tickets: $8-12
Contact: 801-572-4144
Draper Historic Theatre Facebook Page
The Addams Family Facebook Event
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