POTTSTOWN PA – They’re creepy and they’re kooky. They’re altogether spooky. But on Friday the 13th and later, members of The Addams Family may be your best and funniest choice of leisure time companions.
“The Addams Family,” a play based characters made popular in cartoons by artist Charles Addams – and followed by the 1960s television series and later movies – takes the main stage Oct. 13-29 at Steel River Playhouse, 245 E. High St.
“It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season, complete with family drama, the Addams characters you’ve come to love, and a group of rambunctious ghostly ancestors,” the playhouse proclaimed.
“This comical feast embraces the wackiness in every family,” it added. “It features an original story and a father’s nightmare. Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. He’s a man her parents have never met. If that wasn’t upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother.”
“Now Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before: keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s normal boyfriend and his parents.”
The book is by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, with music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa. Liz McDonald directs, joined by Music Director Rebecca Shimer and Choreographer Maddi Boone. The running time for the two-act show is about 2-1/2 hours with one intermission.
Scheduled performances and ticket information
Tickets cost $29 for adults, $24 for seniors age 65 and older, and $17 for students. They’re available now for purchase online, or by calling the playhouse box office at 610-970-1199. Evening performances are scheduled at 7 p.m. on Oct. 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, and 28. Matinées at 2 p.m. are scheduled for Oct. 15, 22, 28, and 29.
A “relaxed performance” will be presented Oct. 21 (Saturday) at 2 p.m. Individuals with ADD, ADHD, dementia, autism, sensory sensitivities, or any patron who would enjoy a performance where they can freely express themselves. are invited to attend.
“We have assembled a fantastic cast of singers, dancers and comedians for what is going to be a hilarious month of fun,” director McDonald said. “All of the iconic Addams characters are featured in this unexpected story about the various ways love presents itself in our lives. Young love. Old love. Love that is struggling. Love that is strong. Love of family. Even love of the moon!”
“We are living in such a tumultuous time, and this heartwarming musical teaches us that even through darkness love prevails.”
For more information on upcoming shows, educational offerings, or volunteer opportunities, send an e-mail to info@steelriver.org.
The production is sponsored by the Zarley Charitable Fund. Opening night sponsors are Paul Sgambato, Scott Roberts, and Mario and Tracy Salas. Season sponsors are Susan and Scott Bentley.
Steel River Playhouse is a non-profit theatre and education organization. It is “dedicated to sharing stories that reflect our collective humanity, by providing a nurturing and empowering environment to represent and serve our diverse community.”
Photos provided to Travels With The Post by Steel River Playhouse