Walking into a rehearsal for NC Standing Ovation’s newest production, The Addams Family, the cast rigorously practices to prepare for opening night.  

With performances on March 24, 25, and 26, the cast rehearsed 12 hours a week since January to ensure the show runs smoothly. The musical tells the story of a grown-up Wednesday Addams’ attempt to marry Lucas Beineke, causing a rift between the kookier Addams family and the traditionally normal Beineke family.

The musical also serves as the last production for seniors before graduation. “It feels really bittersweet,” senior Sarah Kate Unkefer said. “It’s really nice though because I’m with a lot of the people that I’ve gotten to know over the four years, and it feels also nice because we’re ending with a really great show that I’m really proud of.”

In addition to casting seniors in lead roles, Oz granted main characters to lowerclassmen as well, showcasing the talent of NC Standing Ovation’s next generation. Freshman Hope Kutsche performs as Grandma Addams, a key player in much of the musical’s plot.

“It’s really cool and I’m really excited! It’s a lot of fun to be able to be in a show with all of my upperclassmen friends, especially because they’re leaving soon,” Kutsche says.

As with any production, the ensemble cast found it difficult to stay on task for the duration of their rehearsals, but worked hard regardless.

“You have some days when you’re really on it, and there are some days when you’re just distracted by your life that are not so good. But that happens with performances too, so I guess you just kinda have to roll with it and see what the day brings you,” senior Darby Franks, who plays Morticia Addams, said.

Despite these unexpected delays, Franks attests to the production’s appeal: “It’s a really hilarious show and it’s got a lot of catchy songs and our whole cast is really talented. There are a lot of seniors and this is their last show a North Cobb including me, so you know we’ll put a lot of heart into it. “