Review: The Addams Family Musical
I went to see The Addams Family musical (with Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth as Gomez and Morticia, respectively) last night. It is premiering in Chicago before heading to Broadway. I was recently in NYC and it is heavily advertised there so it is nice to get a jump on seeing this prior to its wide debut.
Below is my review along with some spoilers so if you want to be completely surprised by the musical, I wouldn’ t suggest reading this. Though, in reality, nothing I write in text really compares to seeing Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth on stage. Also, please note that this musical is in previews (as has been pointed out in the comments) and so it is a work in progress still (I think that’s what it means) and so your experience may be even better than my own. Enjoy.
ALL AFTER THE CUT.
The Premise. The premise of the musical is that daughter Wednesday has fallen in love with a young man (Lucas) and he and his parents are coming over to the Addams Family home so everyone can meet. (I should note that Wednesday is 17 or 18 in the musical which is based on the actual Addams Family cartoon drawings, not the television show.) Obviously, Wednesday is nervous about the impression her family will make and, obviously, they do not disappoint. The young man’s parents are more uptight than Gomez and Morticia who each (separately) try to get the father and mother to be more intimate with each other. In the process, Morticia becomes obsessed with her own age. Meanwhile, Wednesday and Lucas decide to run off together and get married. Puglsey is worried about who will torture him when Wednesday runs off. The parents come together to convince their children not to run off just yet and, in the process, everyone is drawn together, happier. All throughout, Uncle Fester is singing about love. He has fallen in love with the moon.
The Set. The set is fantastic. Really well done and the detail is nice. When the musical opens, you see the entire family (complete with Uncle Fester, Lurch, and Grandma) standing in front of the family home in the cemetery, staring out through the gates that surround the house.
Probably one of the most impressive moments with respect to the set comes near the beginning when we see the boy’s family searching for the Addams’ Family’s house which, I learned, is in Central Park in the middle of NYC. No kidding. Anyway, there is a huge facade of the entire house near the back of the stage and trees that move around in front of the house. Music plays and swells and fog swirls along the floor of the stage and then the entire facade of the house falls straight forward (on its face, as it were) with a tremendous clap as it hits the stage – sending the fog/smoke dancing along the stage floor in a whoosh toward the audience. Standing behind the facade, previously hidden from view is the Addams Family. Immediately following that loud clap, the traditional, iconic Addams Family theme starts and the family, arms crossed over their chest, snap their fingers. The audience immediately responded. Despite having already seen all the actors, it still felt like this was one hell of a way to make an entrance.
The musical also does a very good job of managing to get Thing in on the action. A lone hand is seen drawing back the curtain when the musical begins, for example. The squid that lives in the house also plays a decent role in the musical and all of its arms make an appearance after it falls in love with Lucas’s father.
The Music. This is a hard one because people often need to hear a tune more than once to really enjoy it. I could hum one tune (“Let’s Not Talk About Anything Else But Love“) only because a version of it is done no less than 3 different times in the musical. The first number (“Clandango“) is not particularly memorable for an opening song. The song “Pulled” is sung by Wednesday as she talks about how she feels pulled toward Lucas – all while she’s operating a torture device that pulls Pugsley’s limbs in all different directions. (Which he enjoys.) “One Normal Night” is Wednesday’s plea to her parents to act normal during the visit and it could have been really cool song but right when Wednesday sings one cool riff, the melody changes again and the groove you just got into is gone. The result is that, for me, I never really got into the song. This was a recurring event with songs that seem to have no real melody that is repeated (aside from the previously mentioned “Let’s Not Talk About Anything Else But Love“).
The mom (Alice) – she likes to write poetry. I think it is when she is talking about her poetry and what she likes to write about when she says that she likes to write about something that everyone needs and so few people have. The obvious inference is that she means love – but Morticia says, “Healthcare?” Audience loved it.
Another popular line is when Grandma is explaining a potion and its effects to Pugsley and she says something like, “One drop of this would turn Mary Poppins into Medea.”
The song “At Seven” is about how Gomez and Morticia do the Tango every night at 7. Wasted song, in my opinion. It’s not memorable and the point was made in other ways that didn’t require the overkill of the entire number.
“Full Disclosure” is a song done by the full chorus while the two families are at dinner. It refers to a game the family plays in which they all drink from a chalice and tell a secret about themselves. The Grandmother (Jackie Hoffman – Second City has a great alum in her and Chicago loves her) more or less steals the show here, taking the chalice and confessing that she’s going to get a full body makeover and become part of a 90-year old grandma sandwich. Oh, and she smokes weed in the attic. And also, Morticia and Gomez don’t know whose mother she is. This revelation is pretty funny when it is made between the two of them.
Act I ends there and Act II opens up with us revisiting Morticia’s struggle with aging and playing “Second Banana” to her daughter, Wednesday. Bebe Neuwirth’s voice is really distinctive and I don’t know that I’d have cast her for this role. While she looks fantastic (that low cut dress served her well), her voice has a lot of vibrato that somehow didn’t seem as silky/sexy as you’d imagine Morticia’s voice would be. In general, that seems to be my impression – I felt like I was supposed to like her in this role because she has the look and acting/singing chops, and because she’s Bebe Neuwirth… but I just didn’t. I did, however, gain a new appreciation for her breasts and legs.
So, one of the most interesting, entertaining parts of the show comes next with Uncle Fester singing about his love for the moon. (“The Moon And Me“) Using a very dark stage and careful, careful lighting, they manage to create the illusion that Uncle Fester is gently floating in the air, singing to the moon amongst the stars. His real legs are clad in black but he has fake legs that are being moved around in comical positions. Nothing I can explain here really does it justice but it’s fair to say that it is extremely well done and meant to be obviously fake while also cleverly handled. This is one of the most memorable scenes in the musical for that reason and everyone was wide-eyed and watching closely. Hats off to Gregory Meeh who did the special effects.
Then we get a few pointless songs again. Gomez and Wednesday sing “Happy/Sad” and then Lucas and Wednesday sing “Crazier Than You.” Neither of them were particularly memorable or entertaining. The first is about how Gomez is both happy and sad to see his little girl grow up and how you need sadness for happiness to exist, etc.
“Teach Me How To Tango” – Gomez teaches the mom (Alice) how to Tango. Again, not that memorable. “The Swordfight/Tango” – this is when Morticia discovers Gomez and Alice dancing and flies into a jealous rage, blaming her age for his perceived disloyalty. They have a sword fight and there are two things here that are really funny. First, Gomez takes a swing with the sword at Morticia and the entire stage freezes, the music slows, and we see the action Matrix style, with Bebe Neuwirth leaning back slowly as the sword swooshes over her. Then the music, scene immediately resume. The audience loved it. Next best part? Bebe Neuwirth gets her dress sliced off and is in thigh-high boots.
“In the Arms” is with The Dad (why am I now blanking on his name?) and Alice singing about the love they’ve found for each other again. Eh, not a particularly fantastic song, not a great melody and the words were slightly hard to understand. “Move Toward The Darkness” closes the musical and it, too, is not terribly memorable save for the fact that you finally get to hear Lurch sing.
Music and Lyrics were done by Andrew Lippa. Overall? Ehhh. I was not a huge fan of the numbers. They served their purpose – which was, basically, a vehicle so the lyrics could advance the story forward. In some cases, though, the lyrics didn’t so much carry the storyline further as simply beat it into the ground. I do think, though, that I might feel differently if I heard them again – but, mainly, I think that many of them just never really developed a strong melody.
I haven’t said much about Nathan Lane. His comedic skills are great and his timing is good. He didn’t seem to overshadow the rest of the cast. That reminds me…the costumes are excellent. Really sharp. Not overdone – just done well.
SO! Overall? I think it’s a good musical. It’s not great, but it’s good. Overall, I feel like it could be tighter. The songs could do more to advance the storyline rather than simply re-iterate a feeling. As it happens, the story actually seems to stall while there was a musical number and then it would advance again when the song was over. That’s not always a bad thing – as it sometimes is a great opportunity to show off the composer’s skill, along with the lyricist’s – all while enriching the entire story with the layers of emotion added by the song. But that didn’t really happen here. While Uncle Fester’s theme about love is memorable, that’s partly because it’s a little overdone. I found myself sort of wishing they’d stop singing that same line about not talking about anything but love. However, I do think the song served as one of the anchors which the audience recognized – which is good to sort of recenter everything once more.
The actress who plays Wednesday (Krysta Rodriguez) is great. I found myself wishing that they gave her better music to sing (especially in “One Normal Night” which could have been fantastic if they’d gone along with the rockish/jazzy blurb she does when she’s asking for a normal night). I hadn’t heard of her before so I found myself intrigued.
Edited to Add:
Dear Krysta Rodriguez,
After some thought and a night of sleep, I’ve decided to love you. Please to let’s get hitched. KTHXBAI!
-RE
I’d go see it again to see if the music had carved some sort of groove that I could settle into but didn’t blow me away.
I did mention my new found appreciation for Bebe Neuwirth’s breasts and legs, didn’t I?
Right then. Just checking.
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Just a random attorney writing about daily life with Little Filthy, my rotten dog.
November 19th, 2009 at 10:33 pm
A man who watches and likes musicals ? Didn’t know it still existed.
Did LF try to hump you after you got home ?
November 19th, 2009 at 11:29 pm
I think a lot of men like musicals. Maybe they don’t like saying it?
I enjoy musicals. I used to play piano in an orchestra pit. Thought about conducting at one point but, alas, the call of the law.
November 20th, 2009 at 8:49 am
I agree that a lot of men like musicals.
Great review RE. WOW. So very detailed! (That playbill comes in handy, eh?)
I’m always curious about the musical numbers too. Andrew Lloyd Webber is a genius at catchy tunes but not everyone has that talent.
Would love to see it as I am a long time Addams Family fan. I also love Nathan Lane. And I can’t miss the chance of a whole new appreciation for Bebe Neuwirth’s breasts and legs…
November 20th, 2009 at 9:30 am
@T – heh. I took notes, too, during the musical because I knew you wanted a review.
ALW tends to be pretty well liked, I think, because he does have this knack for writing very broad, sweeping melodies – like Puccini, to whom he is often compared, I believe.
And yes, you almost have to go to see Nathan Lane and to fully appreciate Bebe Neuwirth’s assets.
But more than that, to get a glimpse of this Krysta Rodriguez. Talented, pretty, really the star of the show.
-R.
November 20th, 2009 at 10:11 am
Is this the longest post you have ever written?
Great review. Makes me want to sing!
November 20th, 2009 at 11:35 am
Well thank you for your detailed notes, my sweet RE! I look forward to catching the show!
November 20th, 2009 at 12:06 pm
@T – Look, you can go see the show but I’ve decided something.
I’ve decided to love Krysta Rodriguez but still sleep with Bebe Neuwirth. Just once, mind you, but still.
So, you know. Hands off.
You can have Nathan Lane.
Most sincerely,
RE
November 20th, 2009 at 4:07 pm
Thanks so much for the detailed review, it’s like I was there.
You play piano too…your talents are endless!
Have a great weekend.
November 20th, 2009 at 8:49 pm
Thanks for the detailed review. I’m looking forward to seeing the show next week.
Lots of men like musicals! I’m even writing one.
November 20th, 2009 at 11:55 pm
@Steve – Holy crap, are you really Steve Alcorn?
November 21st, 2009 at 6:47 am
That would be me.
November 21st, 2009 at 7:33 am
“Crazier than You” is available on youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5BVSQW5S8s
November 21st, 2009 at 8:07 am
@Steve – Wild! Thank you for your comment. I’m interested to hear what you think of the show.
@Anon – I have to revise my opinion of that song because as soon as I saw your comment, I immediately knew the basic melody of the song which means it stuck better than I thought. I clicked on the link and definitely liked it better the second time around though I didn’t think it moved the story forward really, at all. What did you think of the show?
November 21st, 2009 at 10:02 pm
Thanks for posting this. I can’t wait to see the show!
November 22nd, 2009 at 12:28 pm
You do know that this show is still in previews and hasn’t had its press night yet. That makes this review illegal.
November 22nd, 2009 at 12:38 pm
E,
No, it doesn’t.
First, I am not a theatre reviewer or in any way associated with theatre press. I am a member of the public who went to the musical. I believe the press is frowned upon for doing reviews of shows that have not had an official press night. However, if you mean to tell me that it is illegal for a member of the public to write a personal review about their feelings about the musical, please let me know as I’d like to be educated on if I missed some contractual obligation when purchasing my tickets – a contractual obligation that would change upon press night. I doubt that the show’s counsel has gone to this length to contractually bind its audience members but I will happily stand corrected if you’re able to provide any information to this point.
Second, if the show takes issue with this review based upon some cause at law, then I am confident I will hear about it from their attorney, in which case they’d probably seek an injunction.
-R.
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
I’m not currently planning on reporting it, but any published review is subject to this. This includes internet reviews published publicly.
At least out of respect for myself and the rest of us who have spent months working on this show. It is horribly inappropriate and shows a lack of tact.
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Not only that, but somehow I doubt that buying a ticket could waive your first amendment rights!
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:26 pm
Gee, your review had me excited about seeing the show, but now that I’ve seen E’s posts I’m sorry I bought tickets.
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:27 pm
@E – If I may,
Let’s take a step back.
First…I had no idea that this was so sensitive. Truly. So I don’t appreciate the harsh tone – especially one that is lecturing me on tact. I’m a human being and you can just tell me if I did something that offends you and you can do that without being offensive.
Second – When you say “…but any published review is subject to this.” – What is the this? Because I will tell you that if I have violated any laws or contractual obligations, I will absolutely remove this review. Again, as I stated in my earlier comment – I welcome the education. I’m not trying to be a jerk – please do not be one to me. If my ignorance offends you, please, I am asking to be educated.
I hope it does not surprise you to know that most people would not know that if they go see a musical prior to press release that they can’t write about it in their blog. Count me amongst those people. So, again, please educate me on the law or contractual obligation I’ve violated?
If, however, this is a matter of etiquette, I would also like to learn that but please do so politely as I am not your enemy or intentionally trying to offend you.
-R.
November 22nd, 2009 at 8:03 pm
I can understand E’s comments, because they re still actually working on the show… that is the reason for previews, etc etc… BUT, you gave it a pretty good review (and I was wondering if I should buy tickets, which is why I searched for a review online), so, I think your post is wonderful. They are touchy, yes, I get it… its a work in progress… so, maybe when blogging (writing) a review that point should be duly noted, but I still think you did them a favor by posting a positive review. Whew! And, E, I will come see it (and enjoy it) and bring my friends, so … don’t worry so much!
November 22nd, 2009 at 8:04 pm
@Nancy – Thank you for your thoughtful comment, Nancy. I think your suggestion about noting that the musical is in previews is a great one. I will note it in my review now.
November 22nd, 2009 at 9:49 pm
Saw the musical today….thought your comments were right on. Don’t worry E…I don’t think the “review” will be harmful in any way. The musical is very good (although I squirmed a bit sitting next to my 11 year-old son). Cast is very good and I’m confident it will only get better before it heads to Broadway. Nathan Lane was fabulous and so was the actress who played Wednesday. Go see it before it leaves town!
November 23rd, 2009 at 10:18 am
Sounds like a blast!
November 23rd, 2009 at 2:17 pm
I saw the play on November 22. I enjoyed the performance. I assumed that this was a family friendly play. There is no reason to make repeated references to having sex with animals. What kind of message are we sending to our kids.
November 23rd, 2009 at 3:11 pm
Jim, if it’s not Disney or it’s not a revival, chances are it’s not family friendly on Broadway.
November 23rd, 2009 at 3:52 pm
I have tickets and am bring my kids; can you prepare me for what is not family-friendly, please?
November 23rd, 2009 at 3:59 pm
@Moi – Much of the innuendo will go over the heads of children. May I ask how old your children are?
There are obvious references to affection between husband and wife (this is, after all, Gomez and Morticia) though nothing that I recall was overly sexual.
[Minor Spoiler Alert] The comment Jim is making is in reference to the husband of Lucas (the dad) who ends up supposedly having sex with the family’s pet squid. I imagine that much of that will go over a young kid’s head, as well – and certainly none of it is graphic. You only see the arms of the squid pluck up the father and pull him down into the basement. I imagine you could explain this as them wanting to play or something. Again, not overlygraphic and I don’t suspect it will scare any children unless they are under 6 or 7.
There are also some sexual references during THE GAME – in which Gomez likens himself to a goat and Morticia to a girl goat. I think I’m remembering that correctly. He’s recollecting a dream he had.
Honestly, I don’t think there’s anything that would be horribly bothersome but 1) I don’t have kids and so I’m probably not nearly as sensitive to it as someone who does and 2) hell, it’s The Addams Family – it’s not gonna be lily white. Let me know if you have any other questions, though, and I will do my best to be helpful. If it is any consolation, the young actor who plays Pugsley certainly must see all of this and I doubt his parents are concerned.
But what the hell do I know?
(Hope that was helpful)
-R.
November 23rd, 2009 at 5:24 pm
you. me. we wrassle for bebe neuwirth’s body. although you might want it for different reasons.
November 23rd, 2009 at 10:53 pm
Fabulous preview review. E, no worries. I saw the show on November 21, and agree 100% with these comments but expect the show will be tightened up a good deal before it hits Broadway. The problem is that the songs are (how do I put this kindly? No, I can’t) well, they’re just uninspired. The “love” theme falls flat, as does Uncle Fester’s strange role as narrator. So, not much can be done. And, while I absolutely love Bebe Neuwirth, she is sadly miscast in a part that seemed to be built for her gorgeous dancer’s body. So, go to see the wonderful Nathan Lane, or for Krysta Rodriguez as Wednesday, who steals the show. And, of course, Jackie Hoffman is a treat.
November 24th, 2009 at 12:36 pm
Random Esquire. My wife and I want to take my son (8) and daughter (11) to see this play. They’ve seen Twilight, Harry Potter and the like and exposing them to such a great cast and stage setting, to us, would be worth what we hear is PG-13 content. Do you agree, have any thoughts?
Thanks,
- David
November 24th, 2009 at 12:58 pm
@Lily – I’m trying to imagine why in the world you’d want her body if not for the same reasons. What are you going to use it for?
@Richard – Thank you for adding your 2 cents here! I was wondering what other people think about it.
November 24th, 2009 at 1:03 pm
@David S – I would agree with you that this is a great opportunity for you and your kids. I wouldn’t classify any of the humor/antics as Rated R and I suspect your 8 year old, if he’s seen other PG-13 movies, won’t be scandalized, either.
Please keep in mind that I don’t have children so I’m not really sensitive to everything that might make a parents ears prick up. There’s definitely innuendo but I suspect much of it would go over the head of an 8 year old and possibly a 13 year old, as well.
Also, another parent asked (In comment #27) about the family friendly thing and I wrote a more detailed response in Comment #28 that may be helpful, as well. I hope this helps!
-R.
November 24th, 2009 at 1:09 pm
Yes I saw your other comment to Moi after I hit send. Thanks for the feedback though. I am very excited for my kids to see a world premier play with world renowned cast members. I think they’ll have a great time and now that I remember it, my mom took me to see A Chorus Line when I was about 9 and no harm done, I just loved it.
Cheers.
November 24th, 2009 at 4:44 pm
Thank-you, Random! That really gives me the information I wqnted. I think the jokes will be fine for my group, but I am totally glad to know ahead of time.
November 24th, 2009 at 7:05 pm
@RE – i was going to cryo freeze it so when i’m that age i can have a killer rack and legs.
might look a little weird though…seeing that she’s white and i’m so not…
hmm…
i might have to rethink this.
meh. we wrassle anyway.
November 25th, 2009 at 10:51 pm
Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwerth were great to watch on stage, but Krysta stole the show. Overall I really enjoyed it, but I feel it lost its mojo in the 2nd act.
November 28th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
Just got home from seeing Addams Family Sat afternoon performance. I went expecting a fantastic show. What I saw was a Nathan Lane stand-in ( adequate) and a very boring slow moving show that I never connected with. Musical numbers were inconsistent. This version will need major re-works to have a long life on Broadway.
November 28th, 2009 at 11:53 pm
We also saw this Saturday’s matinee. We enjoyed the show for the most part. Merwin Foard did a good job subbing for the sick Nathan Lane. Foard is actually not the understudy for this role, but is the standby, so I presume this is the first time he has performed this role in front of an audience. If so, excellent work. All of the cast really does quite a good job. We also liked the music, which I found mostly catchy (if a bit formulaic) and well integrated in most spots.
The two major adjustments the show could use prior to going to Broadway are a redo of the opening number, and some energy added to the middle of the second act. The problem with the opening number is that it brings the whole cast on almost immediately, and seems like too much exposition (ala Urinetown). We liked Uncle Fester as narrator, and I think it would be better to use him to impart the information about Wednesday turning 18, rather than the somewhat pointless ceremony currently used. Act two drags, not so much because of a couple of musical numbers that don’t advance the plot, but mainly because the dramatic tension between Wednesday and Lucas is resolved too early in the act. Although this is only one of three pairs of relationships that need to be resolved, it is the one we are introduced to at the start of the show, and is therefore the most important, and the denouement should be later.
The main problem with the show is that it can’t decide which story it is telling:
1. Wednesday’s growing pains.
2. Morticia wanting to be the center of attention.
3. Morticia afraid of growing old.
4. Mal and Alice’s change.
These are all good story threads, but the show never really latches onto one of them as a primary theme. The writers say it’s about the importance of family, but other than the silly oath in the first number, it really isn’t. A scene is needed between Morticia and Wednesday near the end of act 2 to resolve these first 3 themes.
I think a few simple tweaks to the script and perhaps cutting the opening scene could bring a lot more focus. I suspect some adjustments have already been made, as the summary that this thread begins with didn’t seem to exactly match what we saw today.
Finally, I want to applaud one exceptional number. It’s “Happy/Sad,” performed by Gomez to Wednesday. Foard did a superb job on this, and it’s a magical and poignant moment in the show, reminiscent of “Slipping Through My Fingers” from Mama Mia. The audience was rapt during that entire song, and it’s indicative of what this show may be able to achieve with the right adjustments before it goes to Broadway.
November 29th, 2009 at 1:16 am
Also saw the Nov 28 matinee and it was a major disappointment not to see Nathan Lane. It was like seeing U2 without Bono.
November 29th, 2009 at 12:19 pm
There are a lot of good plays in Chicago, this is not one of them. This show needs a lot of work before going to Broadway. Its been a while since I have seen people walk out during a performance. Spend your money on something worth seeing.
November 29th, 2009 at 12:32 pm
First Act: Crisp, new, witty, exciting…for the most part. Second Act: Too long, too unwieldy because of so many sub-plots, too much of “I’m in love with the moon” (huh???) and sex-starved underwater creatures. Not for kids because of overt sexual references, gestures and language. We were sad to miss Nathan Lane, but it was fun to discover the wonderful young woman who played Wednesday. That gal is going places fast! Overall, it was fun to be “in on” the previews, but it needs some serious tightening, especially in Act Two. The gal handing out programs said that Nathan Lane was extremely ill…but after a length Web search to learn more, I’m convinced he was just taking the day off. A Saturday evening show seems like a huge one for the star to miss without any explanation.
November 29th, 2009 at 12:41 pm
John is a bit harsh. Although I do agree with many of the previous comments criticizing the play, it was still definitely worth seeing. And you have to give Nathan Lane a break-if he is sick he shouldn’t be on stage. Seeing the performances by Wednesday, grandma (“I just peed on myself”, and Morticia were priceless.
November 29th, 2009 at 1:30 pm
This was an epic disappointment. Bebe Neuwirth’s voice was weak. She sounded like Kathryn Hepburn struggling to vocalize. Some tonal inflection would’ve been nice too but that didn’t happen much. The music is nothing special. The story is weak and incoherent. There were strengths: Fester and Wednesday were excellent.
I am amazed that this “product” made it to the stage. Huge work needed before it’s worth the money. Stay away.
November 29th, 2009 at 9:26 pm
sounds like i am in the same boat with many. terribly dissapointed in the show. i’m much more of a charles addams fan than musical theatre so i wasn’t going with huge expectations but i was let down.
the first act was decent, but the second was awful, i almost fell asleep 3 times.
the sets and costumes were great, the music and songs … uck. the story was barely present.
November 30th, 2009 at 7:56 am
I saw the show yesterday, and I was also quite disappointed in it. Perhaps it was just the lack of Nathan Lane, who was sick, and his standby did a fine job, but it just didn’t sparkle.
The book is strange, to say the least. A lot of contrived scense for exposition, including the opening coming of age ceremony (why not just a birthday party in the cemetery?), the “Game”, the squid, Uncle Fester and the moon. Can’t the clever writers come up with something better than this, like, a plot?
The actors, especially Krysta Rodriguez, did a great job with uneven material.
Songs, for the most part, unmemorable, but pleasant.
Scenery and lighting was great.
I have seen Nathan Lane in other productions, and I’m not sure this vehicle adequately showcases his talents, and Bebe Neuwirth only dances once in the 2nd act. Come on, USE your talent!
It’s in previews, maybe it will improve.
November 30th, 2009 at 2:40 pm
True, it is in previews, but these are seasoned professionals, so why all the ballyhoo about the public stating an opinion? The only thing that got me going were the set designs and lighting. Truly, a bland show. Music ho-hum, no plot, the writing was terrible, the actors were in search of a story ala Pernidello, and the second act could have a train run through it. Maybe E and co should look at this and say: “Gee, the American public isn’t so stupid afterall, to buy anything handed to us.” As far as the company goes, the acting lacks depth and this includes supporting cast as well as principles. Get cracking. I wasted my money.
Stay away.
December 2nd, 2009 at 9:57 am
I went very early on (November 15), and while I agree with many of the criticisms stated in the review, I think many who have left comments are being too harsh. The music is not very memorable, but in spite of that I found it to be a genuinely fun, entertaining show with some very funny zingers. That’s what I was expecting and that’s what I got. All of the people I overheard on the way out were making positive comments and seemed satisfied, too.
December 2nd, 2009 at 10:44 pm
How long was the show….?
Is Nathan Lane recovered and back in it? I see it tomorrow, 12/3
December 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm
@Terry – It was between 2.5 hours and 3 hours, if I remember correctly.
I’m afraid I have not heard if Nathan Lane has returned; I certainly hope so and that you will see the full cast. Let us know what you think, please!
-R.
December 4th, 2009 at 1:27 pm
Saw the show thurs- night dec3. Nathan Lane was there in full comedic force. But First I’ve got to disagree with some of your comments especially casting-wise. BB Neuwuerth was born to play this role. I thought her singing was spot on, albeit a bit muted in the early numbers. But second banana, that song and her dancing and her funny acting will probably get her another tony. Agree with your take on the weakness of opening number, and on the sexiness of both BB and Wednesday. someone also noted that a tie in song between weds and morticia is needed in 2nd act and I agree. I feel sad for those that didn’t get to see Nathan Lane- cuz he was also born to play this role also. BTW- last night they he and bb stopped the show cold at the end of the swordfight. And i was seated in the 4th row- surrounded by bluehairs- clamoring and clapping like lil school children. Nathan’s and BB’s dancing ability and agility was not lost on this crowd. All of the leads have some great moments that made me like them. Well cept for pugsley- his song was weak and the male engenue’s was a bit uneven, it was like he wanted to belt out a huge jazzy cool number bit it wasn’t there. But grandma- the normal couple, Wedsneday and Fester were AMAZING. VERY good special effects and sets- that actually lived up to my big expectations for something a theatre version of the adams family. My biggest surprise was how darn funny the whole thing was.
December 4th, 2009 at 2:12 pm
Saw the show Wednesday night, and was very interested to see what others thought. I am a big fan of musicals and understand what an epic undertaking they must be and so difficult to do well. Alas, this show was very pedestrian. The music was just ok. The acting was good, sets were excellent. The voices were good except for Morticia. Hard to listen to her. Nathan Lane was funny and sang well but the material was weak. And the story was just plain boring. The second act, as others have noted, is very weak. I’m not sure what they can do to fix it, since the Music is part of the problem. I was literally hoping for the old Adams family series jingle, just so I could remember one of the songs. Finally, whoever writes these things, please, please stop using the old uptight white guy, who ignores his wife’s needs, as a foil. It is a very old and tired cliche.
December 6th, 2009 at 11:15 am
I saw the Dec 5th matinee, and would give Adams Family an overall C+. My summary is as follows:
* Bebe’s voice is, in fact, weak and difficult to follow. She looks the Moticia part but either she or the writing or both causes the character to under deliver. She may have been added to the show more for star/name recognition….and, consequently, to sell tickets.
* Nathan Lane overall is good in the role, and has a number of funny moments, but, again, the writing for the role does not meet his potential….as opposed to the Producers in which he was outstanding.
* The story line was good enough (it’s a musical, not Death of a Salesman), but the characters didn’t seem to connect with one another. It borders on a series of individual performances/scenes loosely connected to a story.
* The Pugsley and fiancé characters were nondescript to the point of being cardboard cut out props.
* The Wednesday torturing of Pugsley scene is ineffective and should be cut. There is a scene where Gomez is fondling Morticia’s butt…….it went on so long that it was getting close to becoming peep show weird.
* The music overall was O.K. with a few very good songs…..B-
* The Wednesday (fine actress, great singer) and Uncle Fester characters were outstanding. The Grandma character was also very good. The Alice and Wednesday characters are outstanding singers….A+
* The Moon and Me uncle Fester scene is the highlight of the show…..A+
* The scenery and costumes are excellent…..A+ The opening scene is memorable and well done…..A+
Overall: If you are expecting something like The Producers, then you will be disappointed. The show has its moments, but don’t expect anything outstanding. Tip: If you are going to the show on the weekend, then add in time as the holiday shoppers are filling up parking garages close to the theatre.
December 6th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
I agree with most of your observations, but I’m surprised you liked the Moon and Me number so much. Everyone else I’ve heard from seemed to think it was pointless and too long.
I agree that the basic idea for the story is alright (it’s essentially The Munsters or La Cage aux Folles, take your pick) but the fact that the “characters didn’t seem to connect with one another” is indicative that it needs some rewriting.
December 6th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
I think there may be two minds about the song because we’re evaluating it on two different things – 1) its relevance to the musical/story and 2) its entertainment value.
I enjoyed it – it completely entertained me and everyone was still, watching it closely.
Did it do a darn thing for the musical? Eh, not really. I was almost sick of that darn song by then.
December 6th, 2009 at 5:27 pm
@Steve: Picking up on Random Esq’s comment, I really enjoyed “The Moon & Me” for the entertainment value. The song was good and the illusion created was excellent. You could tell the audience liked it based on the increased level of applause.
Speaking of applause…. the Dec. 5th matinee audience was “polite” in their applause throughout the show, with a few extra efforts. There was no standing ovation at the end of the show…… nor a sustained applause that caused an encore appearance, and bow, by the cast.
Random Esquire gave a very thorough and fair review of this musical. I am interested in reading Tribune’s Chris Jones review this week. He really panned Banana Shpeel a few days ago.
December 6th, 2009 at 9:25 pm
We (two couples) saw this last night (December 5th) and the concensus was; we wished we had our $400 back. We bought the tickets in June, so we were really primed to see this show. Most of our negative feelings have been covered in other posts, but I can’t emphasize enough how bad Bebe Neuwirth’s voice is. (956% more vibralto than the human ear can tolerate). Nathan Lane and Kevin Chamberlin were the only reasons to see the show. Krysta Rodriguez has a great voice but was given nothing to sing. “Thing” gave a brilliant performance.
December 7th, 2009 at 10:00 pm
Saw the show in Chicago Dec 5. Story line weak at best, we were hoping for so much more. Nathan was the reason I didn’t walk out. They slaughtered what could have been a great franchise.
December 8th, 2009 at 11:21 am
Saw the show on the 5th of Dec. I agree with the comments above. The show is very weak to say the least. The music nothing memorable. However, wouldn’t have been fun if they had given Thing more to do, even a solo. He could have done it in sign language as someone sang it to the audiences. Of course, it would have had to be a love song. So Thing could have found a partner too.
December 9th, 2009 at 3:55 pm
Four of us saw the play December 5 and at the intermission we all turned to each other and said:” I really want to like this, but I just don’t.” But all agreed that it was a treat to see Nathan Lane and BeBe Neuwirth.
December 17th, 2009 at 12:16 pm
I’m curious….for those of you who didn’t love (or even like) this play, what plays/musicals have you enjoyed? I’m considering seeing the play later this month, and just wondering if our tastes match. Thanks in advance.
December 17th, 2009 at 2:42 pm
Well, I certainly didn’t love it, but I think it’s fixable. If I had to pick a musical it’s most similar to in polish and style, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels comes to mind. It’s about equally funny, but the DRS score is catchier.
For the record, my favorite musicals are: Wicked, Billy Elliot (in London), Spring Awakening, Aida and Evita.
December 19th, 2009 at 6:48 am
Amanda, in answer to your question
LIKED: Phantom, Les Miserables, Lion King, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Evita, Annie, MaMaMia, Beauty and the Beast & Young Frankenstein
DID NOT LIKE: Cats, Wicked, Addams Family
And many that fall in between. To name a couple: JC Superstar, Joseph
December 19th, 2009 at 6:51 pm
I just saw this last night, and i beg quite to differ on your ideas of pointless songs. I was blown away by Crazier than you and Pulled. I think Wednesday was cast perfectly. I don’t see how you aren’t amazed by the music pieces…but everyone’s got their opinions i guess. I would recommend this to anyone, GO SEE IT. NOW. DO IT. lol.
December 19th, 2009 at 6:53 pm
Hey there, Ally – I’ll say this about Pulled – a day or so later, I did find myself humming the tune so it did stick with me more than previously.
We agree that Wednesday was a great casting decision. Thank you for chiming in with your opinion! Glad we’ve got a well balanced group of comments here.
-R.
December 25th, 2009 at 9:24 pm
I saw it,..and agree wioth most of your review I guess. I would just say it was “fair” at best. I didnt leave the theater wanting to see it again or even remembering any melody.
I joined in a standing ovation as I always do for any production; I respect the time and talents put into the show (even if I dont really think it’s that good). I personally dont think this will last long on Broadway. Unless many changes are made.
I agree that the songs do nothing to move the story, but the overall plot is slightly boring. It is also to long. Its the first time in a LONG time that I kept cheking the program to see when the last song was coming up so we could leave.
Bottom line,..this is a comedic musical,..but nothing like Wicked or Hairspray.
January 6th, 2010 at 11:20 pm
Fabulous show. Fester and the moon, Grandma, great singing by all the non-lead characters. Breathing the same air as Nathan Lane was worth the price of admission. Bebe Neuworth’s voice wasn’t very strong and overly full of vibrato – I enjoyed her more when she did Rex Harrison type talk/singing. She is perfect for the part and she has won Tony awards for other musicals. This left me quite puzzled. What happened to her voice? The scenery was amazing. Beautifully choreographed by using the chorus to move stairs, etc.
I wish Chicago audiences would be more interested in applauding than in exiting in such a hurry. The cast worked hard and deserved about 4 curtain calls
March 10th, 2010 at 7:42 pm
well, i saw it on opening night on broadway. And i thought it was great. Im pleased to inform you that they cut a lot of those “pointless songs.” They cut Clandango, At Seven, Second Bannana, Teach me How to Tango, Swordfight/Tango and a few others. Now, they are still in previews on broadway, so they might come back. But honestely, I LOVED IT.
March 12th, 2010 at 2:35 pm
@Wednesday – Ah, interesting! I was wondering how the show would be changing. Glad you enjoyed it!
March 12th, 2010 at 7:36 pm
One word……BORING. I have been watching the TV series since I was a little kid. So its been about 35 years and boy was I thrilled that it was coming to Broadway. My wife brought the tickets for my Christmas present and I have been waiting a few months to see it. The last play we saw was Young Frankenstein. My wife never saw the movie and she thought she was going to hate the play. Boy was she wrong! She loved it. Now a few months goes by, she never watched the TV series and we go to the play expecting a really good play. Well my wife took a nap after the intermission and I almost fell asleep too ! The song were too long and painfully boring. Nathan Lane was good, but Bebe Neuwirth voice was terrible it didnt fit the old Morticia. And forget about Grandma and her lines. I walked out of there saying this was the worst play I have ever seen,alot of people next to me felt the same way. Thank God we had a great dinner at Sosa Borella Restaurant.
May 11th, 2010 at 7:20 am
RE – although insider “E” didn’t appreicate your review, perhaps s/he should have taken heed instead of defense. Now that the show has hit Broadway it has been panned by the Times echoing much of what you said.
http://theater.nytimes.com/2010/04/09/theater/reviews/09addams.html?pagewanted=1
July 8th, 2010 at 7:33 am
Esq – can’t find much about content. Thinking of taking 2 kids, 6 and 8. Sounds fine, but much language or overt sex? thanks!
July 8th, 2010 at 8:09 am
Hi there, Fred,
I think that we may have discussed that age group and the play around comments 25-35 above. Someone else was planning on taking an 8 year old. There were some mixed feelings about the appropriateness for children. Honestly, it’s been a while since I saw the musical so I think it’s best to go from those comments/responses as the musical was much more fresh in my memory there.
It probably varies a fair bit on how the play may have changed since it was here in Chicago and your comfort level with your children. So, yeah, my suggestion is to take a glance at the comments above – specifically 25-35 – and see what you think.
Best,
-R.