The Arundel Barn Playhouse's THE ADDAMS FAMILY Begins Tonight

"All Together Ooky: A Normal Family"

By Stephen G. Tabor

Do your parents tango and sword fight? Can your uncle electrify lightbulbs just by touch? Does your grandmother peddle potions? You might just be an Addams. Welcome to the darkly delirious world of Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Grandma, Wednesday, Pugsley, and, of course, Lurch. The Addams Family turns the concept of the ideal American family on its head in The Arundel Barn Playhouse production of The Addams Family.

Originally published as single-panel cartoons in 1938, the iconic family created by Charles Addams spawned a television show and cartoon series, three movies, and, of course, a Broadway musical. This time, the bizarre and beloved clan must face the idea that Wednesday, now grown up, wants to marry a "normal" guy and begs her family to act normal, as well.

But is there such thing as a normal family? Addams Family actress Allison Sandler doesn't think so.

"My family is a very eccentric group of people," says Sandler. "From big Thanksgiving dinners at my aunt and uncle's house with snakes, chickens, parrots, and bunnies to my grandfather's love of performing magic tricks for everyone he meets, there is rarely a dull moment with my family."

The Florida native portrays Wednesday Addams in Arundel's production of The Addams Family, and like Wednesday, she is the oldest sibling.

"I have a little sister who loves to push my buttons by stealing my clothes. But even at her most annoying, we are very close," says Sandler. She reflects on how nice it is to have a large family who constantly encourages her, much like her Addams Family counterpart.

"Although we are a very eclectic bunch, both sides of my family are very close and supportive of one another. They are definitely not a 'normal' bunch, but they do provide me with a lot of funny stories to tell my friends!"

So normal or not, join us for a macabre evening with The Addams Family at The Arundel Barn Playhouse. We'll leave the lights off for you!

Performances are Tuesday through Saturday at 8 pm and Wednesday matinees at 2 pm. Additional performances are Sunday evening July 5 at 8 pm and Friday matinee July 10 at 2 pm. For prepaid reservations, group rates, and special offers, call (207) 985-5552 or visit www.arundelbarnplayhouse.com.

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