Review: THE ADDAMS FAMILY Delivers Halloween Laughs at Runway Theatre

Just in time for Halloween, Runway Theatre opens its 2017-2018 season with a show that audiences of all ages can enjoy. Whether you are familiar with the dark humor of The Addams Family TV show and movies, or this is your first introduction to the classic characters - this comedic musical directed by Bill Sizemore has something for everyone.

Follow THE ADDAMS FAMILY as they discover Wednesday's secret. She is in love with a boy who is... normal. Haven Isom contributes fantastic energy and vocals to the performance as Wednesday Addams and immediately endears herself to the audience. Alongside her, Robert San Juan brings an authenticity to the character of Gomez that any fan of the original works will appreciate.

Performance highlights include strong chorus numbers, an array of ghostly costumes from different ages, and some excellent high notes belted by the young Alexander Lilly (Puglsey). Every inch of the compact Runway Theatre stage is filled as the versatile set transforms from graveyard to mansion to park. Andrew Lippa's Tony-nominated music and lyrics keep the audience chuckling as the characters navigate through family drama and discover young love.

The onstage band is an asset during chorus numbers and set transitions, but occasionally overpowers solo vocals. The second act is slow to warm the audience up again but recaptures viewers with a delightful duet featuring young lovers Wednesday (Haven Isom) and Lucas (Ethan Armstrong). In the end, the audience is treated to an entertaining show that is perfect for the season.

So hurry to Runway Theatre for the last weekend of THE ADDAMS FAMILY. http://www.runwaytheatre.com/ Tickets for the remaining performances are limited, but be sure to check out the rest of Runway's season for shows like A TUNA CHRISTMAS and MOON OVER BUFFALO.