Last night the kooky clan arrived in Wolverhampton and the devilishly delightful Broadway musical was brought to life on the Grand Theatre’s stage.
Reviving the characters that we all love, the musical focuses on Wednesday Addams who has grown up from her mischievous childhood self into a rebellious eighteen-year-old. Her weird and wonderful family who are into all things darkness are surprised to find she has fallen in love with perfectly normal Lucas, who comes from a regular family from Ohio. As Morticia and Gomez welcome Lucas and his family into their home everything isn’t quite what it seems.
Alongside the inventive set which completely transforms the stage into a beautifully designed haunted mansion. The score by Andrew Lippa is just sensational, with both catchy and moving musical numbers. Despite being the crazy Addams Family there are some moments that really pull on your heartstrings, such as father and daughter duet Happy/Sad sung by Blakely and Fletcher.
Carrie Hope Fletcher is a natural fit for the feisty young Wednesday. Filled with teenage angst and spirit, Fletcher’s energy is triumphant as she approaches the character with wit and flair. However, it’s her stellar vocals that steal the show, particularly in her solo belter Pulled. Wednesday’s romance with Lucas is incredibly cheesy but also tremendously funny as their distinct personalities clash. Oliver Ormson is brilliant as he captures the playful and dorky personality.
Bringing immense humour to the production is Cameron Blakely as Gomez, who has impeccable comedy timing. Blakely is charming and charismatic towards the audience and he brings exceptional energy to the show. Similarly, Samantha Womack is excellent as Morticia as she holds her gait with a sensual elegance and her snappy remarks whip the family into shape. Providing laughs as the irritating younger brother Pugsley is Grant McIntyre.
Stepping into the role as the 1st cover just a few weeks ago, Scott Paige is excellently funny as Uncle Fester. Paige brings tonnes of energy to the role and an abundance of enthusiasm through his animated character. He slips into the family dynamic and his narration throughout the story is expressive and colourful.
The creepy ancestors who play as the ensemble are individually crafted to play different roles such as the Jester, Matador, Ballerina and more. They bring power to numbers and master Alistair David’s slick choreography.
The Addams Family musical is exceedingly witty and sharp with dynamic musical numbers that are highly memorable and performed by an exceptionally talented cast.
★★★★
On at the Wolverhampton Grand until the 21st of October, tickets and information can be found here.
