Review | The Addams Family | The Lowry | 12 August 2025

Image Credit: Pamela Raith

You’d be hard pushed to find someone unfamiliar with The Addams Family in some shape or form. Since their first appearance in Charles Addams’ cartoons back in the 1930s, this famous gothic family has gathered a cult following through both television and film, before hitting Broadway back in 2010. Now on its third UK tour, The Addams Family returns to Salford this week.

With adored screen portrayals from the likes of Anjelica Huston, Jenna Ortega, and Christopher Lloyd forever etched in fans’ brains, stepping into these iconic roles could be daunting, and almost impossible to pull off well. However, this (absolutely stacked) cast rises to the challenge and knocks it out of the park. The book, whilst not groundbreaking in its narrative, is genuinely funny. Had it been slightly shorter, the show would have felt more cohesive.

Alexandra Burke leads the cast as Morticia Addams, delivering her trademark powerhouse vocals effortlessly. Although known for her icy demeanour, a slice more camp would have elevated her character even more. Maria Garrett completely steals the show as Wednesday. Her rendition of Pulled is genuinely spine-tingling, not only for her incredible vocals but for the way she fully embodies the character, capturing Wednesday’s rebellious spirit perfectly. Although not on stage nearly enough, Lesley Joseph and Clive Rowe steal each and very scene they’re in as Grandma Addams and Uncle Fester. With perfect comic timing, they bring humour, warmth, and heart to the show.

Andrew Lippa’s score doesn’t disappoint, working seamlessly alongside the comedy itself. The music never falls into the common trap of sounding repetitive, with an eclectic array of musical genres. You get the punchy pop-rock in ‘Crazier Than You’, the more traditional Broadway pizzazz in ‘When You’re an Addams’, and even Latin vibes in ‘Tango de Amor.’  There really is something in there for everyone.

While The Addams Family isn’t a musical that aims to reinvent theatre, it never pretends to be. Packed with catchy tunes, charm and plenty of laughs, The Addams Family promises a fun night out at the theatre. The Addams Family is on at The Lowry until Saturday, 16 August 2025.

Click here for booking details

Note: My ticket was gifted. Irrespective of whether a ticket is gifted or bought, I always ensure that my reviews are fair and based on my honest opinion alone.