There are community theatre productions that entertain, and then there are productions that completely redefine what audiences expect from local theatre. Millennial Productions’ The Addams Family at the Ron Hurley Theatre is firmly the latter—a polished, ambitious and brilliantly executed production that feels far beyond the traditional community theatre standard.
From the moment the curtain rises, it’s clear that every creative decision has been carefully considered. The inventive set design, clever use of props, intentional costumes and seamless scene transitions create a wonderfully immersive world that perfectly captures the delightfully macabre charm of The Addams Family. It’s spooky, stylish, incredibly funny and bursting with personality.
Perhaps the production’s greatest strength is its casting. Every single performer feels born to play their role, creating an ensemble that works together effortlessly. The chemistry between the cast is undeniable, making Charles Addams’ original iconic family feel as wonderfully dysfunctional—and lovable—as ever.
The musical itself is packed with infectious numbers, and under Taylor Atley’s direction and Kaitlin Evans musical direction, every song lands beautifully. Standout musical moments include Wednesday’s (Angelina Bourke), powerhouse ballad “Pulled”, delivered with heart, humour and soaring vocals, while “Full Disclosure” becomes one of the evening’s biggest comedic highlights, with impeccable timing and laugh-out-loud chaos.
The choreography by Lauren Benstead is equally impressive, finding the perfect balance between theatrical spectacle and storytelling. Every routine feels purposeful, enhancing each scene while embracing the quirky, gothic energy of the show. It’s creative, energetic and consistently entertaining.
Leading the family is Tristan Vanyai as Gomez Addams, delivering a charismatic, passionate and endlessly likeable performance. His comedic timing is exceptional, while his devotion to both his family and Morticia gives the character genuine warmth beneath the humour.
Opposite him, Ruby Thompson is simply captivating as Morticia Addams. Elegant, commanding and effortlessly glamorous, she perfectly captures Morticia’s dry wit and mysterious allure, while sharing wonderful chemistry with Gomez throughout.
As Wednesday Addams, Angelina Bourke delivers one of the standout performances of the production. Balancing Wednesday’s iconic deadpan nature with surprising vulnerability, Bourke commands the stage, particularly during the sensational performance of “Pulled,” showcasing both exceptional vocals and emotional depth whilst torturing her brother, Pugsley.
Jamieson brings endless energy and mischief to Pugsley Addams. Their playful performance perfectly embodies the youngest Addams sibling, creating plenty of hilarious moments while adding genuine heart to the family dynamic, showcasing the sibling love despite the chaos.
As Uncle Fester, Caleb Holman is an absolute scene-stealer. Equal parts narrator, matchmaker and eccentric uncle, Holman embraces every wonderfully bizarre moment with infectious enthusiasm, drawing consistent laughter from the audience.
Towering over the family is Aden Lowry as Lurch, whose understated physical comedy proves that sometimes the biggest laughs come from saying very little. Every appearance is memorable, and Lowry makes the most of every moment.
Mik Bobart is delightfully unhinged as Grandma, delivering rapid-fire jokes, quirky one-liners and wonderfully chaotic energy that keeps audiences laughing throughout, especially with modern references as well.
The Beineke family provide the perfect contrast to the wonderfully weird Addams clan. Hunter Ireland brings sincerity and charm and cringe dance moves to Lucas, making his romance with Wednesday completely believable.
Zach Price delivers a hilarious performance as the uptight Mal Beineke, with his gradual unraveling becoming one of the show’s comedic highlights.
Meanwhile, Carly Wilson shines as Alice Beineke. Her transformation throughout the evening is both hilarious and heartfelt, culminating in one of the production’s funniest sequences.
The Ancestors deserve enormous praise. Rather than simply filling the stage, each member creates their own distinct character, complete with unique physicality, personality and backstory reflecting the era—and often humorous circumstances—of their demise. Emily Rohwder, Sian Van Blerk, Aidan Cobb, Daniel Lelic (who also brilliantly portrays the iconic Thing), Peter Wood, Ellen Axford, Caitlyn Brindley, Emily Fuller, Ally Hickey and Lucinda Isbel form an outstanding ensemble, providing rich vocals, energetic choreography and constant visual storytelling that adds another layer of magic to the production.
One of the show’s greatest strengths is its humour. While staying true to the gothic charm audiences know and love, the production cleverly weaves in modern references that keep the comedy fresh and relatable without ever feeling forced. Every joke lands thanks to the cast’s impeccable comic timing, making this an evening filled with genuine laugh-out-loud moments.
Ultimately, Millennial Productions has created something incredibly special. It’s kooky, creepy, heartfelt and endlessly entertaining—everything audiences could hope for from The Addams Family. More importantly, it’s a shining example of just how extraordinary community theatre can be when passion, talent and creativity come together.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the Addams family or discovering them for the first time, this production is not to be missed.
TICKETS
Millennial Productions’ The Addams Family is now playing at the Ron Hurley Theatre in Seven Hills until 11 July.
All Production Photography by By B’rit Creative.
The Fame Reporter 