The infamous family are back with a spooky spectacular show to delight audiences all over the UK. This musical comedy from Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice is guaranteed to have you howling with laughter, as the beloved kooky clan come to life on stage.
Princess of doom and gloom, Wednesday Addams, is all grown up, and much to her own despair, is in love. With a plan to introduce the families and announce their engagement, Wednesday and her sweet-natured betrothed, Lucas, are asking for just “one normal night”. But an Addams Family dinner can’t go by without mischief, betrayal, and more twists and turns than Gomez and Morticia on the dancefloor. Join Pugsley, Lurch, Fester, Grandma and their ancestors, for an evening of freaky family fun.
With a score from Tony award winning composer and lyricist Andrew Lippa, the songs will have you more than just clicking your fingers. This musical is full of infectiously catchy showtunes, with witty rhymes and characterful quips. Alistair David’s choreography cleverly nods to spooky silliness, whilst also being innovative and sharp, especially in the ensemble numbers and a particularly riveting tango in the second half.
Designs by Diego Pitarch fit the brief of glamorous yet ghoulish. Giant torture devices, gates, staircases and tall turrets decorate the space in this grand, gothic mansion. And although there are a lot of dark colours, as expected, the lighting (by Ben Cracknell) and costumes bring enough colour and vibrancy to vary the greyscale.
Uncle Fester, played with a charming flair by Clive Rowe, is our host and narrator. Guiding us through the tale with many-a fourth wall break and a few little dittys on the way; Rowe is a very likeable lunatic.
Morticia (Alexandra Burke) glides through the show with a majestic allure, and Gomez (Ricardo Afonso) impresses with a thrilling voice and a captivating portrayal of the devoted family man.
Lauren Jones is perfectly tormented as Wednesday, with dynamic shifts in character and a beautiful vocal performance. Complimenting her is Jacob Fowler as Lucas, who really shines in the duets and more tender moments between the pair.
Another couple involved in the twisted tale are Lucas’ parents; Mal and Alice Beineke (played by Dale Rapley and Kara Lane). Rapley is a strong presence as “normal” businessman Mal, and Lane’s soprano rings throughout the auditorium as she fully commits to Alice’s breakthrough and transformation. I don’t want to spoil too much, but you’re in for a treat witnessing the discovery of her true, dark self.
The outstanding ensemble float about as ghostly ancestors, an addition to the story that I very much enjoyed. Whether during the high energy dance numbers or in scenes where a little other-worldly presence may be involved, the cast relish each haunting movement and are thoroughly entertaining.
Never ceasing to throw in more crowd-pleasing moments, the production is jam-packed with comedy and charm. Pugsley (Nicholas Mclean) impresses with a solo of twisted affection for his sister, chucklesome one-liners come from Grandma (Lesley Joseph), and a surprisingly brilliant cameo from Lurch (Lee VJ) has the audience right in the palm of “Thing’s” floating hand.
Whether you’re five or a hundred and five, you’re bound to enjoy this wonderful tale of family, friendship and love. So, if you’re ready to feel a little spooky and kooky, come and join the Addams’ for a night you won’t forget!
The Addams Family runs at the Blackpool Winter Gardens until 30th August
Reviewer: Coral Mourant
Reviewed: 26th August 2025
North West End UK Rating: