Uncle Fester (Lily Abbott) and the ensemble. Photo by Robin Fuchs.
“They’re creepy and they’re kooky, mysterious and spooky,” and they’ve arrived in Anne Arundel County! The legendary Addams Family is currently being brought to life onstage by the Talent Machine Company, and this 2010 musical adaptation of a pop culture classic is frightfully entertaining. Featuring an exceptional troupe of young artists, this SPOOKtacular production (wonderfully directed by Michael Stromberg) is a haunting success on all levels.
Featuring an exceptional troupe of young artists, this SPOOKtacular production (wonderfully directed by Michael Stromberg) is a haunting success on all levels.
“The Addams Family” tells the story of Morticia, Gomez, Wednesday, and Pugsley Addams who live in a reclusive haunted mansion in Central Park. Wednesday falls in love with a boy named Lucas Beineke, who is the opposite of her family’s often unconventional spirit. Lucas proposes to Wednesday, and she swears Gomez to secrecy about the engagement. To connect the two families, Wednesday invites the Beinekes to dinner, and hilarity ensues when unpredictable situations arise during the evening as the groups clash. Ultimately, the Beinekes and the Addamses overcome their differences, leading the families on a winding road of love and acceptance.
As Gomez Addams, Austin Starkey gave a truly sensational performance. He perfectly personified the character with a commanding stage presence, impressively maintaining a flawless Spanish accent for the entire play. His suave demeanor was an ideal match for the role, and he presented an enchanting singing voice and brilliant comedic timing. Morticia Addams was marvelously played by Paige O’Neil, who exhibited a rich alto voice and phenomenal dance ability. She earnestly conveyed her character’s strong convictions, and her chemistry with Starkey was dazzling. Averi Cain’s portrayal of Wednesday Addams was marked by her splendid pop-rock vocals, and she colorfully relayed every emotion from heartfelt love to raging anger. Jay Santoro hilariously depicted inventiveness and mischief as Pugsley Addams while also communicating heartfelt protectiveness of Wednesday. This vastly different painting of emotions demonstrated his versatility as an actor, and he additionally proved himself as a gifted vocalist in his poignant solo, “What If?” Cole German was engaging as Lucas Beineke, warmly expressing his love for Wednesday and his optimism for their relationship. His vibrant tenor voice blended beautifully with Cain’s mezzo in their duet, “Crazier Than You.”
Other noteworthy performances included Reagan Scott as Lucas’ mother, Alice Beineke, as well as Lily Abbott as the Addams’ eccentric Uncle Fester. Scott delightfully delivered her rhyming dialogue, and her extraordinary vocal talent was on full display in her demanding solo, “Waiting,” for which she received extended applause. Abbott was effervescent and whimsical, and her uproarious slapstick charmed the audience. Her heartwarming solo, “The Moon and Me,” was a highlight, and this number showcased her pleasantly resounding singing and animated expression.
Vicki Smith and Samantha Curbelo’s elaborate choreography spanned a vast array of styles, ranging from flowing ballet to sinuous tango. The cast performed the dances with synergy and enthusiasm, frequently executing complex acrobatics and lifts. “The Addams Family”’s iconic outfits were artistically recreated by Karin Abbott, Jenn Reida, Lea Capps, Carrie Scott, and Cast Families and suitably personalized with subtle hints of color for each character’s personality. Musical Director, Brian Shatt, effectively led the actors through Andrew Lippa’s multifaceted score, and the performers’ ability to perform close harmonies across multiple musical genres reflected Shatt’s expertise and leadership.
The Talent Machine Company’s presentation of “The Addams Family” is a family-friendly creepy cavalcade of unforgettable songs, characters, and dances. This show will both amuse the spirit and warm hearts, and it is sure to appeal both to fans of the classic and those unfamiliar. Be sure to make the journey to the Pascal Center for the Performing Arts to experience this comic delight.
Running Time: Approximately two hours and 15 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission
“The Addams Family” runs through July 20, 2025 at the Pascal Center for the Performing Arts at Anne Arundel Community College, 101 College Parkway, Arnold, MD 21012. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, please go online or visit the box office prior to the performance.
