Review of Richard Montgomery’s Production of ‘The Addams Family’

Let’s not talk about anything else but Richard Montgomery’s production of “The Addams Family” because full disclosure, I’ve been pulled in a new direction by this show. On November 15th, RM’s Black Maskers put on one not so normal night in a stunningly witty and macabre rendition of the popular musical, The Addams Family, based off the infamous 60’s American sitcom that has captured the hearts of audiences then and now with recent remakes and movies. The musical appropriately accompanied the lingering spirit of Halloween with its ghoulish and ghastly themes.

The musical comedy, The Addams Family, based on the book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elic and with music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa, tells the story of Wednesday, the eldest daughter of the Addams family who revels in all things related to pain and death. Wednesday falls in love with Lucas Beineke, a boy from a salt of the earth Ohio family. Together, the young star-struck lovers make plans to get married as Wednesday arranges a dinner party which causes the two vastly different families to collide. Things quickly turn awry as secrets are revealed and relationships are tested.

The show opened with Gomez Addams, portrayed by junior Anand Chitnis, who introduced each member of the Addams Family. Chitnis’ passionate stage presence, consistent accent, and powerful vocals which made for an enjoyable portrayal of the lovable Gomez. During the opening, Gomez Addams introduced his stone-faced wife, Morticia Addams, played by senior Lilah Katz, who moved sinuously across the stage in her long, trademarked black dress and immediately asserted her presence as a notable leader of the pack. 

Introductions to the rest of the family followed, including angsty Wednesday (senior Becca Howlett), her mischievous little brother Pugsley (freshman Allison Howlett), century-old crazy Grandma (junior Naomi Louie), and eccentric, bald Uncle Fester (senior Tudor Postolache). To complete the scene, the Addams ancestors were invited to the stage, rising from their graves to partake in an annual Addams tradition. Soon after, the Beinekes enter the picture, including Mal (junior Jack Orcev), Alice (sophomore Samantha Vidas), and of course, Wednesday’s love interest, Lucas (junior Alejandro Gutierrez).

Ensemble numbers such as “One Normal Night” and “Full Disclosure” effectively captured the talent of the ensemble alongside the full pit orchestra led by Dr. Peter Perry. Other notable performances include “The Moon and Me” sung by Tudor Postolache, who portrayed a uniquely lovable Uncle Fester, and Pugsley’s solo, “What If,” sung by Allison Howlett. Howlett carried a clean, strong belt throughout the show and was a definite standout as a first-time RM stage actor.

I have always been a long-time fan of the Richard Montgomery Black Maskers and was thoroughly impressed by The Addams Family. As the curtains closed after their chilling, final song, “Move Toward the Darkness,” I was especially moved by the talent of the cast. Despite the grotesque and deathly aura the Addams Family is notorious for, this show provided a pleasant balance of wholesome humor and comedy.

Watch a Behind-the-Scenes of “The Addams Family” here.

Article by Alexis Cheng of Northwest High School

Graphic by Sophie Zheng of Cabin John Middle School