Gossip

Addams Family musical eyes long-awaited West End debut?

The page-to-stage show defied critics on Broadway five years ago

Editorial Staff
London London's West End
Artwork for the original Broadway production

We hear word that the musical version of The Addams Family, which premiered on Broadway in 2010, may finally be setting sail for London.

The show, which opened to poor reviews but proved a box office hit, is based on the family of characters created by cartoonist Charles Addams, including parents Morticia and Gomez, children Wednesday and Pugsley, Uncle Fester, Cousin Itt and butler Lurch.

It was rumoured to be coming to the West End as far back as 2011, but the transfer never materialised. Subsequent productions have been mounted in the UK, including at last year's Edinburgh Fringe. Amateur rights have been restricted ahead of a professional London production (see update below).

The show features music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa and a book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice. The London venue remains an (apt) mystery, but WhatsOnStage understands that producers hope to open in late 2015/early 2016.

UPDATE: A representative of Theatrical Rights Worldwide contacted WhatsOnStage with the following statement:

"The Addams Family musical authors are considering many exciting opportunities for The Addams Family in the UK territory, including the West End. At present, amateur rights remain fully available as hundreds of organisations prepare for their local productions."