I was driving down the street a couple of days ago and saw a house all decked out for Halloween. Ack! Too early I thought. Not anymore. Now I’m sorry I didn’t wear one of my Halloween shirts on Friday when I attended the opening night of Circa 21’s The Addams Family. This gloriously ghoulish production is a “must see” to celebrate the spooky season that’s upon us.
This show is based on the old Addams Family cartoons created by Charles Addams and which often appeared in The New Yorker magazine and, in fact, the Foundation created by Addams’ widow required this musical NOT be based on either the TV or film versions of the Addams Family but upon Charles Addams’ single panel gag cartoons. So, when the producers were developing the musical they turned to Uncle Fester for inspiration and asked themselves “what kind of Broadway show would he do?” And, boy, does it pay off with Fester driving the action.
The plot of the show revolves around Wednesday bringing home her new but as yet unannounced fiancé. There’s a problem. He’s “normal.” She begs Gomez to keep that secret until after the dinner that said fiancé and parents are to attend that night to meet the Addams family. Wednesday fears Morticia will object. All sorts of mayhem and hilarious encounters ensue between the two families which include deceased Addams family members that Uncle Fester has trapped on earth as he tries to anonymously aid Wednesday with her love match. Fester, hilariously played by Marc Christopher, is also in love…with the moon…and he has the most endearing song in the show.
This show is a feast for the eyes and ears. The musical numbers are fun, it has one of the most elaborate sets I’ve seen at Circa and yet the scene changes are seamless and quick, the costumes by Bradley Robert Jensen are spectacular. Director and Choreographer Ashley Becher has the cast, which includes A. C. Lam as Gomez and Sarah Hayes as Morticia, play it campy and quaint and they deliver a few zingers along the way that got some of the biggest laughs.
This really is the ideal show to usher in the fun fall season so grab your spouse, your friend and even your kids and head on over to Rock Island to take it in. It really is creepy and kooky, mysterious and ooky.
And here’s something to tuck under your hat for the future. Did you know that patrons attending opening night performances at Circa are treated to a champagne toast AND a reception after the show to meet and mingle with the cast? Mr. Hicks and I took advantage of that and had a great time chatting up the performers.
The Addams Family continues at Circa ‘21 Dinner Playhouse, 1828 – 3rd Avenue in Rock Island through November 2nd with matinee performances on Wednesdays, evening performances Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and Dinner performances on Sundays. Beware: massive street construction is still going on right in front of the theatre so parking is at a premium.
I’m Chris Hicks…break a leg.