MORE than 1,000 people came to watch the sold-out performances of The Addams Family musical at the Gryphon School in Sherborne.

The four-night run saw pupils sing and dance in the high-energy musical, whilst talented musicians in the school orchestra provided accompaniment.

A spokesperson for the school described the musical as the “most ambitious and challenging” show yet due to the intricacies of the show’s quirky characters, dark humour, challenging musical score and elaborate set design, which required months of hard work, determination, and collaboration between students and staff.

“The result was a theatrical experience that exceeded expectations on every front,” a spokesperson said.

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One of the stars of the show, Tom H, who played Uncle Fester, used the opportunity to raise some much-needed funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.

He decided to shave his head for the role, raising more than £500.

The impressive set was built from scratch by the school’s art and design department.

Tom H used the opportunity to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support Picture: Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust

Head of art, Mike Fenton-Wilkinson, painted individual portraits of the main student characters to hang in the mansion backdrop.

Head of drama, Zoe Gabbidon said: “From the very beginning, we knew this would be a challenge; we knew it would test our students and staff in every way.

“But the results speak for themselves — this production has been an extraordinary success.

“In addition to the complex musical numbers played by our outstanding orchestra, the students had to embody an array of distinct, larger-than-life characters.

“From the charismatic Gomez played by Bernard O and Morticia Addams played by Maddie R, to the stoic but lovable Uncle Fester played by Tom H and the darkly comic Wednesday played by Isabella M.

“The cast had to master both comedy and pathos in their performances. Coupled with them was our terrific ensemble, who were integral in making this show so fantastic”.

Headteacher Jim Gower said: “I was overwhelmed with a sense of pride, gratitude, and admiration after seeing the show.

“Our incredible cast gave performances that were extraordinary; their talent is truly inspiring.

“Our orchestra played with such passion and precision, and the stage crew, hair and makeup artists, and costume designers worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the show to life.

The show was a sell-out Picture: Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust

“I’d like to thank all the staff who contributed so much, but particularly Zoe Gabbidon, the show’s director, and Val Mizen, our musical director.

“Their leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence have inspired all of us. Congratulations to everyone involved in a production that will be remembered for years to come”.

A school spokesperson added: “As the final performance took place, the cast and crew were met with a standing ovation from the sell-out crowd, a fitting tribute to the hard work, passion, and perseverance that made this production possible.

“The show would not have been possible without the support of fantastic local sponsors.

“Thank you to The Gryphon Foundation, Sherborne Abbey Festival, The Grange, Kaleidoscope Nursery, Oliver’s Coffee House, and Hunters & Timber Millers.”

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