‘The Addams Family’ wrapping up run with three weekend performances

If you missed the Johnston Dance and Performing Arts (J-DAPA) presentation of “The Addams Family” during last weekend’s two opening shows, there’s still a chance to see the non-profit community arts group’s curtain-closing events this weekend.

J-DAPA will put on its high-energy production tomorrow evening, April 17, with the curtain going up at 7 p.m. Two shows are scheduled for Saturday, April 18, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

“The Addams Family” features an impressive set, costumes, choreography and music. That is a credit to J-DAPA founder and director Donna Tellier, who despite a winter full of rehearsal postponements and other interruptions continues to offer young people with an interest in arts and the theater a chance to perform in a professional setting.

“We’ve done it with family and some super special young people,” Tellier said after opening night last Friday. “All of our people – from the cast to set and tech people – should be proud of what they’ve accomplished to make this show come together as nicely as it has.”

Tellier’s daughter Brieanna oversaw choreography, and daughter Aubrey is responsible for music and sound effects. Her husband Ron – along with D.J. Warren and Rick Zambarano – built the set from scratch.

“This has been one of my favorite shows to direct,” Tellier said. “The cast and crew are not only talented, but very dedicated as well. We’ve had some great laughs these past few months, and I will miss working with each and every one of them.”

When asked what’s next on J-DAPA’s calendar, Tellier said, “Our spring cabaret. It’s called ‘Once Upon a Time,’ and is scheduled for May 2-3. But until then, we still have three more performance of ‘The Addams Family’ this weekend.”