(BENTON, Ky.) — Visitors to the Benton branch of the Marshall County Public Library can now get a glimpse of Broadway history thanks to a special display in the library’s lobby featuring memorabilia from the original Broadway run of The Addams Family Musical.
The display includes a souvenir program and a Playbill signed by members of the original Broadway cast, including legendary performers Bebe Neuwirth and Nathan Lane. The items provide a unique connection to the New York debut of the musical and offer a rare opportunity for local residents to see authentic Broadway collectibles up close.
The display coincides with the upcoming Marshall County High School production of The Addams Family Musical, which will be held March 26–29 at the Kenneth Shadowen Performing Arts Center. The production will be directed by Tessa Northcutt.
The Broadway items are on loan from Marshall County High School freshman Haley McPherson, who will portray Wednesday Addams in the school’s production. McPherson is an avid collector of Broadway memorabilia and owns an extensive collection of Playbills and theater artifacts.
Much of her collection was gifted by Ron Jacobs, a retired New York educator who has been collecting theater memorabilia since the 1970s. After being introduced through a family friend, Jacobs learned about McPherson’s passion for musical theater and generously shared a large portion of his collection with her. The items include Playbills, official merchandise, and articles documenting some of the most popular Broadway shows from the past 50 years.
“It is incredible to see these pieces of Broadway history,” said McPherson. “I have signatures from some of the biggest stars to ever hit the stage, including my favorite, Kristin Chenoweth.”
Other items from Jacobs’ collection have been donated to universities and museums across the country, including more than 250 pieces now housed at the Oscar Hammerstein Museum.
“I am very honored that Mr. Jacobs has entrusted part of his collection to me,” McPherson said.
The Addams Family Musical memorabilia will remain on display at the Benton branch of the Marshall County Public Library through the end of the month.
Tickets for the Marshall County High School production can be purchased online at:
https://gofan.co/app/school/KY21333
For more information about the display or library programming, contact the Marshall County Public Library.
