There’s something mysteriously irresistible about stepping into the world of The Addams Family - a place where the weird is wonderful, the macabre is musical and love comes in all forms (even if it’s wrapped in cobwebs!). And so it proved for the students lucky enough to be involved in Glen Waverley’s Senior School production of the show in Term 3 this year.
The show was spectacular, bringing a truly gothic, yet funny, atmosphere to Cato Hall. The principal cast led the production with remarkable dedication; their commitment to their characters, their vocal and physical storytelling and their willingness to take creative risks brought depth and humour to every scene. This was matched beautifully by the ensemble, whose energy, discipline and unity gave the show its heartbeat. Whether dancing, haunting, reacting or supporting, they elevated every moment on stage, creating a world that felt creepy and kooky in the best possible way.
Drama Prefect Keira (Year 12) got to play Wednesday. ‘I did a lot of work on staying true to the character without becoming an imitation of the original,’ she says. ‘A major plot point is that Wednesday has changed as a result of growing up, which can be challenging to portray, but it was really fun!’
Fun was clearly being had all around. ‘It’s been a joy to bring this story to life with such an extraordinary group of students and staff,’ says Director Marcus Pinnell.
At its heart, the show is about family, about learning to accept, embrace and even celebrate the differences that make us who we are. Heartening then, to see the spirited cast practise the same in their approach to the production.
‘What I enjoyed most was being part of the collective effort from students across Years 8 to 12,’ says Olive (Year 11), who also played Wednesday as a member of the alternate cast. ‘I loved watching students from different year levels grow, become closer and share in the pride of the performances.’
