This was my first visit to The Waterside Arts Centre which contains The Robert Bolt Theatre. It’s very welcoming and the bar area was nice. The theatre is a very nice small-ish space but with tiered seating that was ample, comfy and deep to award you almost full view of all of the performance area.
The set hidden away from view to begin with except for a couple of messy gravestones at the front nicely lit. Once revealed, it was clear to see a well-constructed set with staircase that seemed very sturdy as used several times (including running up and down them) – always good when your stairs don’t move, I’ve found. With cobwebs and dust everywhere, it was well designed and worked as the backdrop for every scene. With cast moving furniture and props, yet another show with no need for backstage crew to be seen. Not sure whether this was intended but it did seem that maybe a couple of the changes were taking too long as the lights had come up again, whilst still mid change.
Apart from this, the sound and lighting team did a sterling job, and all could be heard and seen.
With catchy tunes such as ‘When You’re an Addams’, ‘Pulled’ and a beautiful ballad in ‘Happy Sad’, the band led by Musical Director Marilyn Blank, worked very well together and again, everyone could be heard. Surprising for such a small venue where the 5-piece band is practically in the performance space so well done to the band and their leader.
Costumes and make-up were definitely on pointe here, very good indeed. Well done team.
The choreography was well thought out although sometimes, a little too much when all the cast were on the floor – very limiting and looked occasionally squashed. It was a large cast, and you made the most of them all.
The standout performances for me were from Andrew Farley (Gomez Addams) whose accent was brilliant and you would be forgiven if you thought he was of Latino decent. His performance of the afore mentioned ‘Happy Sad’ was just beautiful and he made you feel like all dads and daughters should feel – they want to keep you safe, but they want you to be happy. Very well done, Andrew.
The other one I feel I must mention was the very talented Miss Mimi Fraser who played the mischievous, danger-seeking, somewhat troubled little boy, Pugsley Addams. Mimi’s characterisation of this little one was just great, and she could tell you the story by just looking at her facial expressions. I feel this young lady may be one to watch. Well done Mimi.
Director, Paul Downham, has certainly studied this show and I believe has had a hand in several productions of it now so should be on the mark and although there were a couple of opening night nerves which caused a couple of miscues and mishaps, this was a well-constructed, well directed production and I look forward to seeing what he turns his hand to next. Thank you for an entertaining night, Paul.
Well done and I hope the rest of your run goes smoothly for you. Enjoy it.
You can catch The Addams Family until Saturday night and I believe tickets are going well and quickly. Congratulations to all involved. https://waterside.ticketline.co.uk/js80-the-addams-family
Reviewer: Hazel Bumby
Reviewed: 8th November, 2022
North West End UK Rating: ★★★