Written by Patrick Chavis
For the benefit of the ten percent of people reading this review that isn’t familiar, I’ll mention that the Addams are a family that finds pleasure in torture and all things Gothically strange–keeping that in mind, it’s fair to note that the show would probably be better suited to the cold, dreary month of October than the hot spring days of April. But strangely enough, Vanguard University’s production is anything but spooky. Instead, the musical relies mostly (if not entirely) on comedic witticisms from the cartoon and television series, both of those stories lacked the darker, more sinister feelings from the 90s films. This is the tamest rendition of The Addams Family I’ve ever seen, which is not necessarily a bad thing–it’s family-friendly. The cast mirrors the original characters with skill levels that range from good to all-around-exceptional.
photo by: Susie Sprinkel Hudson
Story:
The Addams Family’s teenage daughter Wednesday (played by Winter Bassett), has a fascination with death and a seeming aversion to emotions. Despite all this, she’s fallen head over heels for someone who is, by all typical accounts, a friendly and normal guy. The play’s primary focus is the dinner date between the young couple’s families and the consideration of whether these dramatically different people can get along. We learn the lesson in every Addams Family story– acceptance of others and never forgetting what is most important in life and death– our family bonds. The only thing that can be said about this musical is that it’s too safe. It’s cookie-cutter and frankly follows form to such a T that the unrealized potential will leave fans of the franchise indifferent.
Music:
The music accompanying the singers sets the mood fantastically and stays balanced during and between the actors’ singing moments. I would describe it as a mixture of straightforward theme composition with textures of bossa nova jazz and rock thrown into different pieces. Some of the best parts of Vanguard’s production come from the dancing, and the choreography put into this show.
Choreography:
It is a real treat to watch the dance sequences. They are the true bread and butter of what makes this entertaining. Choreographer Bretyln Schmitt’s dance sequences are professional and measured. The background dancers (otherwise known as the ‘Addams’ Ancestors’) tap, plie, and twist their way into your heart.
Acting:
The cast has some strong hitters–take note of Austin Nunn. The last time I saw him was in Kiss Me Kate. He was good there–he’s better here. His Uncle Fester is lovable and true to the character. Winter Bassett (Wednesday) and Morticia (Alexandria Miller) are a pleasure to watch as mother and daughter. Yet what puts this show over the top is the performance by Andreas Schmidt and the family patriarch, Gomez Addams. Schmidt plays Gomez with complete and obvious respect for the character. His mannerisms, sense of humor, sensitivity, and the way he holds himself on the stage are all captivating. Schmidt’s performance is nothing short of brilliant.
It’s ironic that a show about being different and distinctive is so generic, but that is not stopping Vanguard’s cast and crew from putting on a genuinely great show.
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April 8 – 24, 2016
You can also buy tickets for the continued showings @ http://vanguardtickets.com
photo by: Susie Sprinkel Hudson
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WOW!! This was a great production and I loved seeing it with my family LOL It was super funny and…