I remember as a kid watching this iconic television show and loving how quirky and different this family was. When the musical was released in 2010, I knew it was a production we would eventually bring to life at Wabasha-Kellogg.
Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family—someone her parents have never met. If that weren't upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father, begging him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he has never done before: keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia.
Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents.
This musical offers fantastic character options for our students, including a large ensemble of ancestors. I am especially proud of our cast for their teamwork in making this musical happen, from scene changes and dance routines to their commitment to their characters.
Some of the major themes of the musical include family, love, acceptance, and the fear of being different. Despite being quite unusual, the Addams family has their own set of family values and learns to accept each other’s differences throughout the play. In the end, the Beinekes and Addams families come to embrace one another’s uniqueness through the love of their children. Our cast is a diverse group of students who learn daily how to embrace and support each other despite their differences.
We have a large group of seniors in this production, and I am very proud of their achievements. I will miss them greatly next year. Their leadership has helped our drama club grow and thrive.
I want to extend my gratitude to all the students who worked on the set, including my Introduction to Theatre class, Adam Burns, and Nick Scott, for spending countless hours building, creating, and painting the set. The many hours of preparation behind the scenes, including costume modifications and painting, truly help bring the world of the Addams family to life on stage.
I would also like to thank my amazing support staff for their talents and creativity in bringing this production to fruition. Additionally, I want to express my appreciation to our wonderful parents and volunteers who consistently assist with costumes, painting, set building, and supporting our program. We are grateful to the Wabasha-Kellogg staff and spring coaches for working with us to provide opportunities for all students to participate in both the arts and athletics during this busy time. It truly takes a village to produce a show, and I feel fortunate to work in a school that supports and promotes the arts.
Lastly, thank you to our audience for supporting the arts in our community. Participating in a production helps our youth develop skills in commitment, communication, artistic expression, and collaboration. Sit back and enjoy one "normal" night! Full disclosure, there are many lessons in this play: you may be pulled in different directions or feel a bit trapped, but just around the corner, secrets will be revealed as you navigate the darkness, because when you're an Addams, it’s family first and family last!
FULL DISCLOSURE!
During the intermission, we will sell Addams Family-themed fudge from Lark Toys and Grandma’s Pie Cookies from the Stockholm Pie Company. We will also provide lemonade and water.
You can also purchase a black rose for your favorite cast or crew member.
Additionally, we will be selling black heart messages that can be given to the cast after the show concludes.
Audience: No flash photography or video recording allowed during the performance.
