REVIEW: THE ADDAMS FAMILY IS A SPOOKY-OOKY TREAT
The cast of The Addams Family - Photography by: Haughland Media
Curtain Call Performing Arts Company (CCPAC) has come far since their first foray into the Hamilton community theatre scene. They have grown substantially as a company and now offer a variety of programming geared toward all age groups and experience levels. Their upcoming season of challenging musical theatre selections suggests high levels of production value and a sense that their skilled company leaders have what it takes to nurture and develop talented individuals of all ages.
For their production of The Addams Family musical, the Advanced Musical Theatre program allows its participants to work toward "putting together a full scale musical production with a more mature storyline."
The company focuses on choreography, character development and vocal skills while also being given a mentoring opportunity from industry professionals who play ensemble roles (in this case, delightful ghostly ancestors) within the show. Despite this not being the full version of the musical (choosing a condensed edition instead), CCPAC's The Addams Family delivers a spooky, ooky musical comedy that showcases their mission statement: a place where everyone, no matter what, belongs.
Immediately upon entering Hamilton Theatre Inc, the atmosphere is awash in classic gothic vibes, complete with creepy sound, fog and lighting effects to establish the mood. As per usual, the lighting design is consistently top notch throughout. The set includes multiple levels (which always benefits the limited staging room at HTI), effective stage dressing and even secret passages which helps us remember what a weird "fun house" feeling the Addams homestead embodies.
We are introduced to the family via loveable father Gomez Addams (portrayed with gusto by Ash Carey) and the story unfolds. Wednesday Addams is all grown up and has met the boy of her nightmares. The problem? He's normal. This sets the main conflict between her parents, ancestors and herself as the two families meet for a dinner party that they'll never forget.
The entire cast is absolutely committed to their character. There are a few instances where the vocal performance doesn't quite match the necessary vocal range requirements but that's where this program shines. It's a learning experience for this company and even in those rare instances, you are left grinning and applauding their efforts.
A few standout performances include the ensemble (Vanessa Barbara, Kat Baranowski, Owen Quinn and Jared Morado) who effortlessly provided set changes, choreographed routines, comedic moments and backup vocals for the major numbers. Three of the four also acted as the program's mentors and bravo to them for their guidance and skill sets. The role of Granny was an unexpected treat thanks to the excellent physical comedy by Genevieve Dent. Fester Addams, played by a hilarious Haleigh Wallace, showed such a sweet side to an otherwise unhinged character and, of course, Wednesday Addams played by Eco Malec whose vocal performance alone was jaw dropping. Let’s see more from this performer please!
It is a shame that the run of this production will be, to pardon the pun, so short-lived. If you have never experienced a CCPAC production, now is the time. I foresee great things from this company and the tutelage and passion from the artistic directors, crew and students will only continue to showcase what astounding talent can be found in the Hamilton area theatre community.
Full company of The Addams Family - Photography by: Haughland Media
