RIS Brings Westfield History to the Stage with The Addams Family Young@Part

Creator Charles Addams was a Westfield native, and students have spent the rehearsal process exploring that local connection while bringing these beloved characters to life.

Director and RIS teacher Jackie Fogel says the experience has been especially meaningful for everyone involved. “It’s been a dream working on this show with our students and the wider community,” Fogel said. “Connecting our kids with local historians made the process even more exciting, and their enthusiasm for the show has grown every step of the way. Westfield is an incredible town, and we’re proud to celebrate its history on stage.”

The production includes 102 students across the cast and crew and has grown into a true community collaboration, supported by teachers, families, and local Addams Family experts, including Addams Fest producer Adrian Pastore.

“It’s nice to see everyone gather and work together to bring this show to life. It’s also nice to see people from different age groups bonding and connecting with each other through the musical. It has brought all of us together working on something fun and meaningful,” said 8th grader and Assistant Director Emma De Vito.

“I’ve had a great experience with The Addams Family Musical. All of the teachers are very welcoming and I’ve made many friends. Play practice is always something I look forward to,” said 7th grader Audrey Goodstat, who plays Wednesday Addams.

“It is such a fun experience. Everyone is so nice. I am really proud to be part of this production,” said 8th grader Louis Saint Denis, who plays Mal.

“The theater department at Roosevelt Intermediate School has always been so welcoming and full of talent. Each year, we see our old friends again and welcome new ones as well! Theater is such a comfortable environment where nobody is scared to be themself. The Addams Family is a classic story with memorable characters. Together, everyone in the cast has brought in the classic story, while adding in their own unique taste. Through dancing, singing, and acting, this musical is funny, dramatic, and fun! It’s perfect for everyone and has undeniable enjoyment! Thank you to everyone involved for making the show just as amazing as it is,” said 8th grader Jackie Bloom, who plays Gomez Addams.

A comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family, The Addams Family features an original story centered on a dilemma that’s every parent’s nightmare. Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a very “normal” family. When she confides in her father, Gomez, and begs him not to tell her mother, he must do something he’s never done before—keep a secret from Morticia. Chaos ensues when the Addams family hosts a dinner for Wednesday’s boyfriend and his parents, changing everything for both families in hilarious and heartfelt ways.

“Our students are incredibly creative and deeply dedicated—not just to this show, but to truly learning and embracing the art of theatre,” Fogel added. “They are amazing young actors and crew members, and it’s an honor to watch their growth along the way.”

Performances take place March 12 at 4:00pm, March 13 at 7:00pm, and March 14 at 7:00pm. Tickets are $15 and available at wpsvpa.booktix.com/dept/RIST. Discounted $10 student tickets (cash only) will be sold at the door for the March 12 matinee. Westfield residents ages 65 and up may request a free ticket through the district’s Golden Pass program by emailing kernst@westfieldnjk12.org.