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They’re creepy and they’re kooky. The Addams family invades campus

The Broadway hit has Northwestern roots
addams family
This month, 24 student performers bring Morticia, Gomez, Wednesday, and the rest of the iconic family to life in a production that celebrates both the musical’s legacy and Northwestern’s role in its development. Photo by Justin Barbin

"The Addams Family – A New Musical Comedy” opens Friday, Nov. 14 and runs through Sunday, Nov. 23 at the Barber Theater.

As it goes with many hit Broadway shows –– whether through the cast or creative team –– all roads seem to lead back to Evanston. Before “The Addams Family” became a Broadway success with more than 1,000 productions worldwide, its creator, Andrew Lippa began shaping his musical vision here at Northwestern.

Lippa’s connection to the university runs deep. His first collaboration with Northwestern dates back to 2006, when The American Music Theater Project, led by then artistic director Stuart Oken, produced his musical “Asphalt Beach.” That partnership proved pivotal. Oken would later produce “The Addams Family” on Broadway. And just two years ago, he mentored students in the theater department.

This month, 24 student performers bring Morticia, Gomez, Wednesday, and the rest of the iconic family to life in a production that celebrates both the musical’s legacy and Northwestern’s role in its development.

“Whether you know them from comics, the 1960s TV show, the films, or Netflix’s ‘Wednesday,’” we all have a personal connection to this creepy and kooky family,” said director Christopher Llewyn Ramirez , with a nod to the show’s timeless appeal.

Oken will join H. Kevin Miserocchi, executive director of the Tee and Charles Addams Foundation for a special post-show conversation after the show on Friday, Nov. 21. Miserocchi is expected to share insights into the legacy of Charles Addams, the creator of “The Addams Family,” and the enduring charm of his macabre creations.

Tickets are going fast, so purchase now at the Wirtz Center box office or online.