The Addams Family – A New Musical

The Addams Family was a counterculture comedy TV show back in the mid 60s, with iconic characters:  wealthy patriarch, Gomez Addams, his sultry wife, Morticia, their daughter, Wednesday and son, Pugsley.  Uncle Fester and Grandmama lived with them and of course Lurch, their loyal servant completed the family.

From the moment the curtain opened the enthusiastic audience was swept up in the energy and excitement of an opening night performance, which will stay with this reviewer for some time to come.  Director Kris Sergi has gathered together an exceptional cast of young performers who gave it their all to create an entertainment extravaganza worthy of the standing ovation at the close of the show.

The lead performers were of an exceptionally high standard, each one making their own indelible mark on the performance.  Erin Pacholke, as Wednesday Addams, is 22 years of age, in her debut production with North Shore Theatre Company.  Her voice is powerful, expressive, strong and sure.  Erin displayed great performance timing and I think I witnessed a genuine star of the future in Australian musical theatre.  I certainly hope so!

It was a stroke of genius casting Andrew Read as Uncle Fester.  No bald head for our Fester!  This guy has a very impressive ‘fro and he ‘hosts’ the show with humour and charm, and his presentation of the song “The Moon and Me” brought a tear to my eye.

In true form, Lurch loomed over the rest of the cast.  His deadpan expression, lack of communication skills and intimidating presence were beautifully countered late in the show when Ben Cody-Osborne sang, displaying a surprising range.

Pugsley, played by 13-year-old Jack Waters, was expressive, funny, highly entertaining and brought the sibling rivalry to new heights, pitted against his forceful sister, Wednesday.

Chris Melotti, as the besotted Gomez, had an awkwardness about his movements which brought a fascinating dimension to the character.  Clearly under the influence of his strong-willed wife Morticia, Chris’ portrayal was at times hilarious, then touching, most particularly when he sang “Happy, Sad” to his daughter. 

Andrea van den Bol’s Morticia displayed the style, countenance and side glances made famous by Carolyn Jones in the iconic role.  She was sexy, sophisticated, and sarcastic and it was a real thrill to watch Gomez and Morticia perform “Tango de Amore”.

Grandmama, played by Eddi-Elle Mia was quite adorable – so tiny and endearing. 

Xavier Smith, Jay Rushwood and Madeline Maronese provided the essential ‘normal’ family, creating a lot of the comedic situations, so familiar to Addams devotees.

The ensemble cast were quite wonderful – costumed superbly, with some outstanding dancers featured.  I was impressed by each and every one of them with their commitment to their role and purpose on the stage. 

I can’t speak highly enough about NSTC’s production of The Addams Family – a New Musical.

If you can get organized this week, grab your tickets and get along to the Zenith at Chatswood.  It’s a beautiful venue, conveniently located to public transport, great dining options and a carpark onsite.

Hurry!  The show only runs until Saturday 23 September and I’d hate you to miss it!

Annette Snars

For more details 'click' on this link - https://www.stagewhispers.com.au/community-theatre/addams-family-click-click-chatswood