Every Family is a Cast of Characters

Pride & Prejudice, CHS Theatre-style, was a side-splitting success! Canby audiences loved seeing the theatre students' unique, comedic spin on this beloved Jane Austen story. Many in attendance had read the novel or seen one of the movie versions and sometimes, as CHS Theatre Director Sullivan Mackintosh pointed out, “It can be hard to live up to people's expectations.” The cast and crew, however, delighted audiences and had them laughing in their seats with this joyful adaptation by Jon Jory. 

Wonderfully hilarious was the totally oblivious Parson Collins (Carson Varner '26), and the tactless matriarch Mrs. Bennet (Juliette Mellander '27). In turn, each character seized the opportunity to shine, as their story unfolded next to protagonist Elizabeth Bennet (Catherine Marquez '26).

Of particular note was the live-produced "foley" method of sound effects provided by Leo Newell ('26). He employed tuba, chimes, bells, paper, coconuts, vocals, and more – live and in real time – to add comedic stings throughout the show. Audiences were also enchanted with the beautiful costumes, assembled by a student team led by Sylvia Goodfellow ('27), as well as the period-accurate dances performed during the play's many ball scenes. 

Next on stage, preparations are underway for the Winter Musical presentation of The Addams Family by Andrew Lippa, Marshall Brickman, and Rick Elice. Performances are scheduled for February 19, 20, 26, 27, 28 at 7 p.m.and February 21 at 2 p.m., to be presented in the CHS Fine Arts Center. Promising yet another stellar production, the theatre department encourages you to mark your calendars and plan to attend! 

This particular musical was chosen for its upbeat energy, comedic value, dance/choreography opportunities, and iconic characters, as well as interesting costumes, design, and staging challenges. The Addams Family also presents great name recognition and vast appeal to a variety of audience ages. Likewise, it fits CHS Theatre’s 2025-26 seasonal theme of quirky families and finding love in unexpected circumstances.

The Addams Family embraces the wackiness found in every family, with the musical featuring an original story: Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family – someone her parents have never met. Everything changes for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents.

“I love the music and characters. The whole reason the Addams Family was created in the first place was to show that all families are different and it’s okay to be weird. This show isn’t afraid of what it is,” and it reflects “how all families face similar challenges, regardless of who you are.” – Toby Brown ‘26