Muskingum News

For generations, the Addams name has conjured images of a delightfully quirky household—one where family dinners might include skeletons as guests and “normal” is a relative term. This spring, that familiar kookiness comes to life on campus as Muskingum University Theatre presents The Addams Family, a musical that celebrates difference, family, and the hilarious chaos that comes with both. 

Directed by Dr. Diane Rao, Professor of Theatre, the production brings wit, heart, and toe-tapping music to Thompson Theatre. At the center of the story is Wednesday Addams—the ultimate princess of darkness—who has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. When she invites him and his parents to dinner, the Addams household is thrown into delightful turmoil. Secrets are kept, expectations are challenged, and the family must navigate change while holding fast to what matters most: love and loyalty. 

As Dr. Rao explains, The Addams Family was chosen with both students and audiences in mind. “We wanted something fun that would appeal to audiences of all ages—from those who remember the original television show to those who grew up with Wednesday,” she says. “The characters are iconic, the music is catchy, and the story reinforces that even though we’re all different, we share the same human spirit.” 

The show is part of what became an intentionally “spooky” season at Muskingum. With A Christmas Carol headlining the fall and the student-written The Milkweed Files opening the year, The Addams Family completes a lineup that celebrates the strange, the imaginative, and the heartfelt. That momentum is no small thing—A Christmas Carol sold out its entire run, underscoring the strength of Muskingum’s theatre program and building excitement for another must-see production. 

Behind the scenes, the musical is also a celebration of Muskingum alumni talent. The show’s design comes from Cassie King ’10, Associate Professor of Theatre and Department Chair, whose creative vision shapes every element of the production—from sets and costumes to lighting and technical execution. She is joined by an experienced artistic team that includes Music Director Sheryl Wise, adjunct professor of Music; regional choreographer LeAnne Bader-Mock; and a live orchestra of 12 professional musicians. 

The scale of the production reflects the collaborative nature of theatre at Muskingum. On stage, the cast includes 10 named roles and an 11-person ensemble, offering meaningful performance opportunities for students across class years. Off stage, more than 30 students and volunteers contribute as stage managers, technicians, designers, and crew members—building sets, running lights and sound, managing costumes, and bringing the production to life night after night. 

Rehearsals began shortly after auditions in December, with students studying their scores over winter break before returning to campus. For many, the experience represents growth, risk-taking, and the culmination of years spent honing their craft. For others—particularly first-year students—it’s a first step into the collaborative, fast-paced world of collegiate theatre. 

Dr. Rao hopes audiences leave feeling both entertained and connected. “No matter which version of Gomez and Morticia you grew up with,” she says, “I hope audiences see that this is still the same kooky family that loves each other through challenges and change. I want people to leave the theatre humming a song and reminded that belonging doesn’t require being the same.” 

Performance Dates & Times 
🎭 Thursday, March 26 — 7:00 p.m. 
🎭 Friday, March 27 — 7:00 p.m. 
🎭 Saturday, March 28 — 7:00 p.m. 
🎭 Sunday, March 29 — 2:00 p.m. 

All performances take place in Thompson Theatre, Caldwell Hall, on the Muskingum University campus. Tickets are available for purchase online. 

Whether you’re drawn by the music, the humor, or the pride of seeing Muskingum students and alumni shine, The Addams Family promises an evening that is spooky, spectacular—and thoroughly Muskie.