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Addams Family Musical Delights at Merry-Go-Round Playhouse

A Kooky, Spooky Delight: Reviewing 'The Addams Family' at Merry-Go-Round Playhouse

In the heart of Auburn's Emerson Park, the Merry-Go-Round Playhouse has once again transformed its stage into a realm of delightful eccentricity with its latest production: "The Addams Family" musical. This show, based on the iconic characters created by cartoonist Charles Addams, brings to life the macabre yet endearing family that has captivated audiences through cartoons, television, films, and now this Broadway adaptation. Directed with a keen eye for both humor and heart by Brett Smock, the production runs through a limited engagement, offering theatergoers a chance to immerse themselves in the Addams' world of gothic charm and familial bonds tested by the ordinary.

The story centers on the Addams clan, a family that revels in all things dark and unusual. At the helm is Gomez Addams, played with charismatic flair by an actor who embodies the character's passionate devotion to his wife and his penchant for dramatic flair. Gomez is married to the sultry Morticia, whose elegant poise and deadpan wit make her the undisputed queen of the household. Their daughter Wednesday, now a young woman, has fallen in love with a "normal" boy named Lucas Beineke, setting off a chain of comedic events that force the Addams family to confront the outside world. This central conflict—Wednesday's plea for her parents to act "normal" for one night during a dinner with Lucas's conservative parents—drives the plot forward with a mix of slapstick humor, heartfelt moments, and catchy musical numbers.

The production shines in its ensemble performances, each character bringing a unique flavor to the stage. Uncle Fester, the bald, bulbous-eyed relative with a penchant for romance and explosives, steals scenes with his childlike enthusiasm and a particularly memorable number where he serenades the moon. Grandma Addams, a potion-brewing crone with a wicked sense of humor, adds layers of eccentricity, while the towering butler Lurch provides comic relief through his grunts and slow, deliberate movements. Pugsley, Wednesday's mischievous younger brother, rounds out the family with his love for torture devices and sibling rivalry that evolves into genuine affection.

Musically, the show is a treat, featuring a score by Andrew Lippa with lyrics that cleverly twist everyday emotions into Addams-esque darkness. Standout songs include "When You're an Addams," an opening number that sets the tone with its infectious energy and choreography that incorporates tango steps and gothic flair. "Pulled" showcases Wednesday's internal struggle between her dark heritage and her budding romance, delivered with vocal prowess that captures the character's angst. Gomez's "Happy/Sad" is a poignant ballad reflecting on the bittersweet nature of watching his daughter grow up, blending humor with genuine emotion. The ensemble numbers, involving a chorus of Addams ancestors who rise from the grave to assist in the family's dilemmas, add a spectral layer of fun, with costumes that evoke Victorian ghosts and dance routines that are both eerie and exhilarating.

Director Brett Smock's vision emphasizes the balance between the family's oddities and their underlying love, making the show not just a comedy but a commentary on acceptance and normalcy. The set design is a standout element, transforming the stage into the Addams mansion with cobweb-draped chandeliers, trapdoors, and a central graveyard that serves as a multifunctional space for both intimate scenes and large ensemble pieces. Lighting effects play a crucial role, casting long shadows and sudden bursts of color to heighten the spooky atmosphere, while sound design incorporates creaks, moans, and thunderclaps that immerse the audience in the Addams' world.

Costuming further enhances the production's appeal. Morticia's signature slinky black gown hugs her figure, allowing for graceful, serpentine movements, while Gomez's pinstripe suit and mustache give him a debonair air. The ancestors' pale makeup and tattered attire create a visually striking contrast to the "normal" Beineke family, whose bright, suburban clothing underscores the cultural clash at the heart of the story. This visual dichotomy is used to great comedic effect, especially in the dinner scene where tensions boil over into chaos, complete with flying props and exaggerated reactions.

One of the production's strengths is its ability to appeal to a wide audience. Families will appreciate the relatable themes of parental love and teenage rebellion, wrapped in a package of lighthearted fun. Fans of the original Addams Family iterations—whether the 1960s TV show, the 1990s films, or the recent animated adaptations—will find familiar Easter eggs, like references to Thing (the disembodied hand) and the family's pet octopus. Yet, the musical stands on its own, with updated humor that pokes fun at modern sensibilities while staying true to the source material's spirit.

Critically, the show excels in its pacing, keeping the energy high from the overture to the finale. There are moments of physical comedy that elicit genuine laughter, such as Fester's attempts at romance or Pugsley's explosive experiments. The vocal performances are consistently strong, with harmonies that fill the theater and solos that showcase individual talents. Choreography by an experienced team incorporates elements of ballroom dancing with a twist—think waltzes interrupted by sudden freezes or ghostly apparitions—ensuring that even non-musical scenes move with rhythmic precision.

For those attending, the experience extends beyond the stage. The Merry-Go-Round Playhouse, nestled in the scenic Finger Lakes region, offers a charming venue with ample parking and concessions that tie into the theme—perhaps spooky snacks or themed drinks to get patrons in the mood. The production encourages audience participation in subtle ways, like clapping along to upbeat numbers or reacting to the characters' antics, fostering a communal atmosphere that's perfect for a night out.

In essence, "The Addams Family" at Merry-Go-Round Playhouse is a triumphant blend of horror, humor, and heart. It reminds us that normalcy is relative, and that embracing one's quirks can lead to the strongest family ties. Whether you're a longtime Addams aficionado or new to their world, this production delivers a snap-worthy evening of entertainment that's both kooky and captivating. With its talented cast, inventive staging, and memorable tunes, it's a must-see for anyone seeking a dose of delightful darkness this season. The show's run provides multiple opportunities to catch it, and tickets are available through the theater's box office, promising an unforgettable theatrical escape into the wonderfully weird.

Read the Full Auburn Citizen Article at:
[ https://auburnpub.com/life-entertainment/article_185643f3-a0a7-42c8-b4d0-bf79984c4bc2.html ]