Review: The Addams Family Muiscal – Newcastle Theatre Royal

The Addams Family arrived in Newcastle Upon Tyne. So do what the Addams do and grab a ticket to see this show now.

Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and has a shocking secret that only Gomez knows; she’s fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family! Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s 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.  All the usual clan are present – Uncle Fester, Lurch, Pugsley et al.

I found the cast to be fantastic and all for separate reasons. 

Joanne Clifton is a seasoned actor and has her previous dance experience to throw in. I know she can sing and act brilliantly , but it was her delivery of humour that impressed me most. Clifton makes the role her own and is fabulous as the all knowing Morticia. Of course she also got to perform a Tango and was the sharpest of anyone on stage. 

Cameron Blakely was great as Gomez. He had me endeared with him. His passion for his wife and love for the family obvious. Finding himself stuck in the middle of a secret it was fun to see him manage the situation as best he could, typified with the song ’Two Things’.

Scott Paige as Fester had some great standout moments and is as crazy as the original I used to watch on tv. Vocally fab in ‘Full Disclosure’ and ‘The Moon & Me’

A last mention for Lurch in this instance played by Dickson Gough was just well… in his own words… HMMMMMMMM (long groan). Without having many actual lines in the show still managed to make a big impact with his lack of urgency, groans and physicality. 

The story centred on Wednesday Addams however, played by Kingsley Morton. No matter what day of the week it is, it’s a performance to see.  An amazing voice made her my favourite vocalist of the night which was apparent in songs like ‘Pulled’ and and ‘Crazier than you’. 

The staging was great. Detailed and well used. The large staircase used used effectively. Split into two for some scenes and raised entry points. Lighting was used well and added to the scenery.

I loved the extension of scenes where they would continue into a dance or song. This happened a few times and gave a great final few moments in the spotlight for Gomez and Morticia when they performed a Tango near the end.

Full of catchy songs you will find yourself singing along, and laughing to the humour this musical provides. If you fancy a date with the Addams, then do what the Addams do and get yourself to the Newcastle Theatre Royal this week.

The Addams Family plays at Newcastle Theatre Royal from Tue 8 – Sat 12 Feb 2022. Tickets are priced from £15.00 and can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.