The Addamses may appear to be a family content with their lives, but when daughter Wednesday falls for a boy who lives a completely opposite life, their world seems to turn upside down in Sunny Hills High School’s production of “The Addams Family.”
Each actor creates a unique character that adds to the general story through diverse postures and mannerisms.
Gomez (Joseph Hanson) and Morticia (Sydney Highter) are worried about Wednesday’s choice of boyfriend, the seemingly normal Lucas Beineke. Hanson’s flustered attitude and worried expressions accentuate Gomez’s feeling of impending doom. In contrast, Highter displays confidence in her disdain for Lucas. When the two come together, dancing the tango, the fiery passion they have for each other is revealed, and this helps them realize that in the end, they can accept Lucas’ family.
As manservant Lurch, Daniel Park presents an eerie presence throughout while also being a source of laughter with his emotionless face and slow shuffle. His lurking physicality gives another dimension to the show – he always seems to be around, though there are times you don’t notice he is there.
Wednesday’s (Maddy Githens) internal struggle as she grows conflicted over her newfound love interest is palpable. She tries hiding this from her family by acting like her regular self, serious and monotone. But even as she puts on a front, you can see the exploding passion of love pent up inside.
Designed by Maddy Githens, Sophia Jang and Amanda Turner, the lighting is a keen asset in the comedic relief of the story, from the candles floating near the top of the house to the lights flickering in the storm to the highlighting of an actor speaking directly to the audience.
The costumes of the ancestors, designed by Celine Generette and Isaac Pratt-MacDonald, stand out in their gray and white color scheme, cleverly showing the variety of eras these people were from.
Ultimately, Sunny Hills High’s “Addams Family” teaches that love triumphs all, no matter what barriers must be overcome.
Lindsey Biggy is a senior at Fullerton Union High School.
