The evening brought together not only families and audiences of all ages, but also numerous local business owners and prominent figures of the Italian Australian community. The result was a blend of artistic quality with community spirit.
On stage, the world’s most “creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky” family was brought back to life with energy. The professional cast balanced comedy, rhythm and emotion, breathing new life into a timeless story.
The plot follows Wednesday Addams, now grown up and in love with Lucas Beineke, a ‘normal’ young man whose presence disturbs the eccentric routine of Gomez and Morticia Addams. Between secrets, lies and a family dinner on the brink of disaster, the show becomes a hymn to love and the acceptance of differences; a universal message that moved the audience.
The leading performers shone with talent and chemistry. Among the cast were Kye Hall (Gomez), Jessica Parris (Morticia) and Darcy Martin (Wednesday), supported by Xavier Daher and Rhys Hankey (Pugsley), Brock Rankmore (Lurch), Bridget McWhinney (Grandma) and the two Festers, Julian Seguna and Kristian Babian.
Completing the cast were the Beineke family made up William Turner, Robert Miniter and Kate Squires, who all delivered an irresistible cultural clash that earned open applause.
Alongside them, many other actors contributed with energy and professionalism, resulting in a vibrant and engaging ensemble.
The evening was further enriched by the presence of notable community figures. Ilario Ventolini of Viva Leichhardt addressed the audience, highlighting the significance of the event:
“The Forum has always been part of Leichhardt’s history, but tonight is special because we are not only watching a wonderful production, we are witnessing the beginning of a new era for this space,” he said.
“Nathan and Andrew have brought fresh energy, bold ideas and new opportunities for the arts to flourish here in Leichhardt. Thank you for this gift to the community.”
The emotion was shared by the theatre’s two founders and artistic directors, Nathan M. Wright and Andrew Bevis, for whom the production marks the start of a long-awaited journey:
“This show marks the beginning of a dream realised. We wanted to create a space where artists could be brave and the audience could experience the magic of theatre. Seeing it come to life here in the Inner West fills us with pride and gratitude.”
With lively songs, witty humour and moments of surprising tenderness, The Addams Family at the Teatro at The Italian Forum in Leichhardt was not just a musical, it was a community celebration around the timeless magic of theatre.
