Laura and Samara spend their days as non-profit unicorns and fill every spare minute exploring the world of musical theatre as BFFs (that’s Broadway Friends Forever). Follow @bffs613 on X, Instagram and Facebook.
To wrap up the spooky season, Lost Baggage Musical Theatre is making Ottawa a bit more creepy and kooky as it brings The Addams Family Musical to Arts Court Theatre. Opening on Halloween night, the musical will give audiences a taste of the dark side intertwined with classic family dynamics and humour. Eager to know more, we talked to Melodi Uygur, who plays Grandma Addams, to learn more about this production.
The show is obviously on brand for spooky season, but what drew you to it and made you want to get involved?
This show is nostalgic for me and reminds me of my childhood. I grew up watching the 90s TV show with wonderful performers such as Ellie Harvie as Morticia, Michael Roberds as Uncle Fester, and Betty Phillips as Grandma. The TV show then got me hooked on the movies from 1991 and 1993, which again had a stellar cast of performers such as Anjelica Huston as Morticia, Raul Julia as Gomez, Christopher Lloyd as Uncle Fester, Christina Ricci as Wednesday, and Carol Kane as Grandma. I just knew I wanted to be involved in a production that attracted so many talented performers to want to be involved in it as well.
Photo by: Sutida May Turcot
Tell us about your character, Grandma Addams, and how you approach it. Has it been more challenging to portray such a well-known character?
Grandma is certainly a bit crass and on the “wild side,” but she also has a softer, gentler, sweeter side to her as well. At 102 years old, she still gets in a little bit of trouble, but knows how to have some fun! She’s adventurous, curious, and hilarious! She has a wicked sense of humour for sure! I approach this character by adding my creativity and personality to the character. I don’t want to repeat what’s already been done. I want to put my spin on it! For example, how do I personally picture Grandma’s voice in my head and how she walks, her mannerisms, body language, facial expressions, and that iconic witch laugh? It’s been challenging as I want to do the character justice, especially because I am following a long list of talented performers who have already portrayed her. At the end of the day though, all I can do is perform my heart out and hope audiences like my portrayal of the character!
The show was wildly successful on Broadway despite not always getting the best reviews. What do you think draws people to this story?
I think what draws people to this story is its values and takeaway messages to the audience. This story teaches you that it’s okay to be a bit “kooky” and strange because ultimately that makes you unique! This story teaches you to surround yourself with people who unconditionally love and support you, and want the best for you. People who make you shine and thrive! Create your own beautiful weird little family, no matter what that looks like! Furthermore, this story at its core just makes people laugh and leave feeling good! No matter how strange the Addams Family may be, they know how to ensure their guests have a good time!
So many of the songs are so catchy and fun. Is there a song or performance you’re looking forward to bringing to life?
I would have to be a bit biased, I suppose, and say that I am looking forward to bringing the opening number to life, which is called “When You’re An Addams.” This song introduces the audience to each Addams family member, as well as all of the Addams Ancestors! It’s catchy and a lot of fun! A great opener for sure! We get to dance the bunny hop, the twist, and lots of other iconic dances as well!
What are you hoping audiences take away from this production?
I know I’ll be repeating myself here, but ultimately, the message that I hope the audience takes away after seeing this production is to embrace and not be afraid to be their weird, beautiful, unique selves!
The Addams Family runs from Oct. 31 to Nov. 3 at Arts Court Theatre. Evening performances run from Thursday to Saturday at 8pm, with 2pm matinees on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 at the door.
