Meet Mal Benieke

Mal Benieke is the husband of Alice Benieke and the father of Lucas Benieke. As an adult, he is stubborn and serious, but he once was carefree and was a follower of The Grateful Dead, but then lost that side of himself.

“At first he is not accepting of the Addams family and of his own family, but as the musical progresses, he learns to loosen up and accept those around him,” said Cayden Lodge.

He will be played by senior Andrew Williams and junior Cayden Lodge.

Williams has performed in two musicals at BPHS. He was in the ensemble in “Guys and Dolls” his freshman year and in “Cinderella” his junior year.

Besides musicals, Williams has also been in two plays at BPHS. He played Grandpa Martin Vanderhoff in “You Can’t Take It With You” his junior year, which happens to be his first acting role ever, and Billy Urquhart in “The Last Christmas Radio Show,” a play written by Mrs. Cortney Williams, this year.

When asked about his feelings on playing Mal, Williams said, “I’ve been typecast as an old man/ dad and I’m embracing it to the fullest.”

As well as participating in shows at BPHS, Williams is also a member of Top 21.

Lodge has been in one other show at BPHS. He was a dancer, herald trumpeter, and ensemble member in “Cinderella” his sophomore year.

“Since last year was my first year, it was a lot to take in. I found it stressful at times but exhilarating at others. I am excited for what this year and this show will bring,” Lodge said.

In addition to partaking in musicals, Lodge is in several bands around Bethel Park where he primarily plays keyboard along with numerous other instruments. He is also a member of concert choir.

Williams and Lodge are both elated to play Mal in the spring.