As autumn arrives, a delightfully spooky energy is settling over the school’s theater department as cast and crew prepare for this year’s fall musical, The Addams Family. Under the dedicated direction of Mr. Katz, the ensemble is gearing up to deliver a production packed with dark comedy, catchy tunes, and dynamic choreography.
While larger, dance-heavy productions traditionally dominate the auditorium stage in the spring, Mr. Katz deliberately selected a more scaled-down show for the fall semester. Beyond matching the logistical needs of an autumn production, The Addams Family felt like an undeniable fit for October.
“It’s spooky season, and this is the perfect show to be in the spooky season,” Mr. Katz explained. “When you think of The Addams Family, you think of Halloween.”
Behind the state doors, the energy is high and the timeline is tight. Rehearsals have been moving at a rapid pace, with the cast officially wrapping up Act 1 and actively diving into the challenges of Act 2. For Mr. Katz, watching student performers master complex routines remains the most rewarding part of the creative process.
“The thing that I love is, when I choreograph with them, they get it,” Mr. Katz shared. “When it all gets put together, everything works the way that I planned it to work.”
Executing a production of this caliber is no small feat, especially given the director’s massive workload. Bringing the world of the Addams household to life requires wearing nearly every creative hat imaginable. On any given day, Mr. Katz can be found designing costumes, blocking scenes, teaching choreography, mapping out set builds, and handling producer logistics; all on top of his regular teaching duties at the school.
Of course, a director’s vision only comes alive through the actors stepping into these iconic, eccentric roles. Tackling characters as famous as Gomez, Morticia, and Wednesday Addams requires balancing classic impressions with fresh, personal takes. Bliss Bray, who plays Alice Beineke in the show, noted that balancing academic workloads with intensive after school rehearsals can be tough, but the payoff during run thoughts makes the effort worth it.
“My favorite part about playing my character is that I get to play both a role and be a part of the ensemble,” Bliss said. “Because the Beineke family was double cast, I get to learn two different parts. I love dancing, acting, and singing, so getting to put them all together is the best of both worlds.”
For the performers, the bond built during late-afternoon rehearsals is just as important as perfecting the vocal harmonies. While the actors command the spotlight, a whole separate production is taking place in the shadows of the wings. The stage crew is responsible for transforming a blank stage into the dreary, grand manor of the Addams family, managing complex lighting cues, set changes, and eerie atmospheric effects. Building a mansion out of flats and lumber requires hours of manual labor after school hours, but the crew members are eager to show off their handiwork.
Audiences have plenty of memorable moments to anticipate, including a massive opening sequence and a featured musical number titled “Secrets,” a women-empowerment showcase that stands out as a personal favorite for the director.
“The girls are killing it,” Mr. Katz noted, highlighting the raw vocal talent and energy the cast brings to the song.
Beyond providing laughs, music, and seasonal entertainment, Mr. Katz hopes The Addams Family delivers a meaningful message to everyone in the audience. Beneath the spooky costumes and macabre humor lies a deeply relatable core story about family dynamics, staying true to oneself, and embracing individuality.
“I think the theme of this show is about acceptance, accepting who you are, and really fighting for what you believe in,” Mr. Katz said. “And also, just coming and having a good time in the theater, supporting your friends, having a fun night out,”
Make sure to support the school’s talented actors and tech crew by catching The Addams Family live in the auditorium later this month. Keep an eye on morning announcements for official showtimes, ticket prices, and purchasing details!
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