Reviewed by Jan Dixon
This evening I had the pleasure of reviewing The Addams Family Musical Comedy at The Mayflower Theatre in Southampton.
This musical was inspired by the creations of the American cartoonist Charles Addams and the 1960’s television series which followed. The main characters from the Addams Family were all there; Morticia, Gomez, Wednesday, Uncle Fester, Grandma, Pugsley and Lurch – brilliantly portrayed by well-known artistes.
The story is about Wednesday Addams falling in love with a sweet young man from a respectable family. She confides in her father Gomez, who is tasked with keeping this a secret from his wife Morticia, which is the main premise of the musical. The two families meet for dinner at the Addams family home, with Wednesday and Lucas’s impending undisclosed engagement providing the background intrigue and comedy premise.
The musical showcased exceptional vocal and acting interpretation of the storyline, not just in respect of the main cast, but the ensemble playing the Ancestors. The latter danced and sang in most of the scenes, adding effective depth to the story and interest on the stage. Carrie Hope Fletcher, as Wednesday Addams, had outstanding musical ability, as did Charlotte Page as Alice Beinke (Lucas’s mother). The stage itself was creatively adorned with Addams Family paraphernalia, setting the scenes perfectly.
Two of the lead characters, Samantha Womack (Morticia) and Cameron Blakely (Gomez), gelled very well together, demonstrating their competent acting, singing and dancing prowess. Les Dennis (Uncle Fester) and Valda Aviks (Grandma) seemed to relish their roles, providing some of the well-known anecdotes with excellent comedic effect. Finally, a mention must go to Dickon Gough (Lurch), whose understated role as a very slow and mono-symbolic character was a theme throughout the show. When he eventually sang with his wonderfully deep voice, it was a revelation to all; with the final wiggle as he exited the stage at the end a measure of perfect timing.
An excellent show; thoroughly recommended, with a 5 star rating. It should be noted that Music & Lyrics were involved with the show, which is an award-winning nationwide Consortium.
The Mayflower Theatre is close to railway links with a variety of car parks close-by. It is advisable to check the nearby Southampton football club fixtures as this can have a huge impact on the volume of traffic entering/leaving Southampton. Do allow for this when travelling to the venue. The theatre itself is due for refurbishment next year, but the seating and interior were still clean and well-maintained.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £21.50 to £39.50 (booking fees apply).
The Addams Family is at the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton from 18-29 July 2017, for more information or to book tickets visit www.mayflower.org.uk or call the box office on 02380 711811.
Mayflower Theatre, Commercial Road, Southampton, SO15 1GE | 02380 711811
