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Elf the Musical review – Buddy’s back with some syrupy showtunes

Dominion theatre, London Choreographed candy cane twirling and funny moments from the Will Ferrell film don’t save this show from being a bland corporate Christmas experience

S on of a nutcracker, what did they do to Elf? Back for a second stint in the West End, this musical version of the effervescent Will Ferrell film is an often flat night out. Despite some appealing performances and a tight candy-cane-twirling ensemble, it comes close to the blandly corporate Christmas experience it sets out to satirise and doesn’t muster a lot more joy than the kind of department store grotto in its story.

You know the plot: Buddy has been raised as an elf after crawling into Santa’s sack as a baby and winding up at the North Pole. He heads to New York to track down his father Walter, a hard-boiled publisher of children’s books, and brings disaster and cheer with him, while also finding love.

The tale is narrated not by Papa Elf (Bob Newhart’s character in the movie) but by Santa himself, from a Dr Seuss-like perch. The eccentric spirit of that set design by Tim Goodchild is not matched by composer Matthew Sklar and lyricist Chad Beguelin’s songs, mostly vanilla diversions and syrupy ballads, whose humour never matches the original screenplay. A brassy number sung by disgruntled Father Christmas impersonators and a snazzy finale choreographed by Liam Steel are notable exceptions.

If the storytelling never feels fleet-footed, there are some amusing moments, mostly taken straight from the movie. As Buddy, who loves warm hugs more than Frozen’s Olaf, Simon Lipkin is funniest when desperately trying to get Walter’s attention. Lipkin’s Buddy bonds well with his newfound brother (played at this performance by Logan Clark) and with Walter’s wife, Emily (Rebecca Lock). But it never really seems like he is liberating their lives and the show feels safe and reluctant to go off-kilter.

You wish Philip Wm McKinley’s production made more of Georgina Castle’s voice though she has a good solo as the jaded Jovie who falls for Buddy. In the movie, James Caan played the publisher father with a grimace and a death stare. When Walter arrives, a Eugene O’Neill gag declares “the Iceman cometh” but the far-too-twinkly Strictly winner Tom Chambers – who tap dances well here – never dips below lukewarm in the role. There’s a melee of pop culture gags in Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan’s book, with hyperlocal New York jokes alongside particularly British references – as strange as finding Ferrell’s Elf in the current Asda advert .

With a hero devoted to bringing Christmas cheer by “singing loud for all to hear” this musical could have been a sweet festive treat but is altogether too stodgy.

At the Dominion theatre, London , until 7 January

• Will Ferrell

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Elf The Musical review: Pure feel-good joy with just enough Christmas schmaltz

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As with A Christmas Carol , it is the cynicism, not the Christmas spirit, that makes Elf so watchable.

True, this musical version of Will Ferrell ’s 2003 movie is like a cheap bauble compared to Dickens’s eternal, classy classic. But aren’t many seasonal shows?

The back story sees Santa find a stowaway in his sack, who is then raised by elves at the North Pole. We join the ridiculous life journey of Simon Lipkin’s Buddy when he is a big-boned six-foot something travelling by mini iceberg in search of his biological father in New York.

Balancing the schmaltz is the city’s disdain for all things Christmassy, which gives audiences at least something credible to latch on to.

‘Even little children think that Santa’s overrated, I kinda get the feeling that New York is jaded,’ cries Buddy in a second-act big number with a chorus line of disillusioned fake Santas, the big elf’s naïveté now all but melted.

And if Buddy’s publisher father Walter ( Tom Chambers ) turns out to be a Scrooge-like workaholic, his boss is even, well, scroogier.

There is yet more antidote to fatal sentimentality thanks to the knowing score by Matthew Sklar (music) and Chad Beguelin (lyrics), while the feel-good subplot about whether or not Santa actually exists is tackled head-on for doubting children.

Yet more than all this, what keeps Philip McKinley’s New York production – which first arrived on this very stage in 2015 as fresh as newly fallen snow – is British star Lipkin.

This well-known yet underrated musical theatre regular (also the star of the most recent Nativity movie) is just terrific in the decidedly un-elfin title role. Well supported by Georgina Castle’s New York ice queen Jovie, who somewhat inexplicably falls for this lummox’s guileless charm, the immensely likeable Lipkin moves with a grace and agility that belies his size.

He is so good in fact, you don’t miss Ferrell at all.

Elf The Musical is playing at the Dominion Theatre, London

MORE : Secret discounts and seat hacks: How to get cheap theatre tickets

MORE : The best Christmas trees in London to help get you in the festive mood

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Elf the Musical

• Theatre, Musicals
• 4 out of 5 stars
• Recommended

Time Out says

The stage adaptation of the beloved Will Ferrell film bounds joyously back into town

This review is from 2022. ‘Elf’ returns for Christmas 2023. 

‘Elf the Musical’ rolls back into the West End with the same blunt-force charm as Buddy, its star. The last time this production was at the Dominion Theatre, in 2015, it was the venue’s fastest-selling show in nearly a century. It’d be a huuuge surprise if it’s not a success this time either.

Apart from a few tweaks and a couple of excised characters, the story largely follows the smash-hit 2003 Will Ferrell movie vehicle that’s now a perennial Christmas favourite. Titular hero Buddy’s Teflon-coated cheer can’t disguise the fact that he’s suspiciously tall for an elf. When Santa Claus breaks the news to him that he is, in fact, a human, Buddy sets out from the North Pole to find his real father in New York City.   

The influences on the film and this show are legion, particularly ’80s fish-out-of-water classics like ‘Big’. Buddy arrives to find a fraught New York, full of Christmas as a sales pitch, but not with its spirit. His father, Walter Hobbes, is a harried, snappy publisher of kids’ books with no time for the young son he actually knows he has. (Buddy was the result of a college romance, whose mother died without ever telling Walter.) From initially stumbling onto the shop floor of department store Macy’s, to inveigling his way into Walter’s office and then his home, Buddy’s open-handed, child-like joy shows everyone he meets the true meaning of Christmas.

This show lives or dies depending on its Buddy. Thankfully, Simon Lipkin knocks it out of the park. There are shades of Will Ferrell in his performance, but he brings an innocence that feels distinct. He tempers what could easily be an annoyingly consistent optimism with some killer line deliveries. He never descends into saccharine. Meanwhile, as Walter, Tom Chambers is grumpy and overworked rather than a full Scrooge. It lends a welcome trace of reality to the show’s otherwise cartoon altitude. Elsewhere, in a show largely focused on male relationships, Rebecca Lock and Georgina Castle still make their characters spark as Walter’s wife, Emily, and Buddy’s would-be girlfriend, Jovie, respectively.  And Kim Ismay, as Walter's assistant, Deb, pretty much steals every scene she's in.   

Philip Wm McKinley’s production is a fast-paced, Tim Burton-esque visual feast, full of exaggerated angles, art deco stylings and slick projections. There are throwaway references to modern tech – and some jarringly attempts to crowbar in some British-isms – but this is really a fantasia. It whirls you up in a Technicolor dream of Christmas, with Liam Steel’s choreography rarely giving you time for breath. Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin’s script is quippy and witty, while Chad Beguelin’s knowing lyrics stay on the right side of affectionate rather than arch. There are a couple of subplot cul-de-sacs and a few dodgy moments (particularly the initial presentation of a Chinese restaurant). But propelled by Matthew Sklar’s score – which hits all the right joyful/bittersweet notes – this is a slickly irresistible and fizzily enjoyable confection of a show. You may find yourself feeling festive even before Santa makes his final act appearance.

RECOMMENDED: More  Christmas shows  in London 

Find more festive fun with our guide to  Christmas in London

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ELF: THE MUSICAL | REVIEW

ELF is the funny and charming tale of Buddy, who mistakenly crawled into Santa’s bag as a baby and was raised as an elf! Way too tall and not so great at his job, Buddy is the North Pole’s biggest misfit… and knows he’ll never belong. When Santa tells him the truth, Buddy heads to New York to find his birth father (who turns out to be quite high on the Naughty List). After causing some merry mayhem in Manhattan, Buddy finally discovers the gift of family and falls in love. And when Santa’s sleigh crashes in Central Park, it’s Buddy who finds a way to save Christmas forever!

I think we're all familiar with the story of Buddy the Elf. Elf is the tale of Buddy, who discovers he's in fact a human; not an elf , like he's grown up believing. At this revelation, he sets out to meet his dad in New York city and makes the arduous trip from his current home, the North Pole. Buddy and his dad aren't quite what the other was expecting and our Christmas story of reconnecting, family and love begins. 

With this show in particular, the success relies solely on how the audience members connect to Buddy the Elf. While I love Will Ferrell's portrayal of Buddy, I thought Simon Lipkin's was even better . Lipkin's version isn't quite as overdramatic, but he captures the essence of Buddy perfectly . The innocence, the humour, the wit - Lipkin has it all . It's very rare that a singular actor carries a show, but he does just that . Buddy is, no doubt, the heart of the show - and rightly so . I particularly loved Buddy's ways of getting his dad's attention; those moments certainly received the most laughs from me!

Kim Ismay as Deb and Georgina Castle as Jovie were particular scene stealers . Castle's voice is astonishingly good, while Ismay's one liners are unmatched. The relationship between Emily (Lock) and Michael (Clark) as mother and son was simply beautiful . The chemistry the pair had onstage was the most believable of the night.

I also particularly enjoyed the idea that Walter wasn't a Scrooge, but rather just an overworked father, who was just trying to give his family the best life; which Tom Chambers portrayed expertly.  

With the Dominion stage being so large, the sets needed to be showstopping and all kinds of whimsical - and I'm happy to report that they were ! From Macy's department store, to the North Pole, to the Rockefeller Center; the sets and staging were simply breath-taking . As expected, they were so much fun and a read explosion of red and green. 

I hadn't heard any of the soundtrack before my visit, but I'm finding myself humming to a few songs from last night! Standout numbers for me were Sparklejollytwinklekingley and The Story of Buddy . Another favourite was I'll Believe in You (sung by Lock and Clark), which was both heart wrenching and relatable.

While there's many positives of the production, there were a few niggles I had throughout . Some of the leading cast members kept losing their American accents, which became quite distracting. And there were a few scenes which felt quite clunky and didn't fit with the general feel of the show. One such number was Nobody Cares About Santa. This jazzy number set in a Chinese restaurant felt completely out of place.

However, the ending of the show is one of the most magical moments of theatre I've ever experienced . When the theatre fills with snow and the Christmas spirit returns to New York ( no scene spoilers here! ), I felt choked up and finally felt that the Christmas season was upon us .

Whether young or old, Buddy or Grinch, ELF is the perfect way to celebrate the Christmas season with your family. While it isn't perfect, it captures the heart of the festive period and is a feel-good, cheesy masterpiece. 

You can book tickets to see ELF: the Musical at the Dominion Theatre, London until January 2023, here .

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Elf! The musical review — a functional family Christmas treat

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★★★☆☆ Back when Elf first opened here in 2015, there was an outcry about how expensive the tickets were for this family musical. In 2022, I suppose, we are more inured to the idea that the best seats for big West End shows can somehow go for £195. That’s a crazy amount for any show, let alone one that only offers an amiable-enough knock-off of a sharper, funnier film from 2003. Still, functional family seasonal treats on this scale don’t grow on Christmas trees.

And, within its terms, Philip William McKinley’s production does a good job. It’s professional, propulsive, well played. If Simon Lipkin as Buddy the Elf is almost too close physically to Will Ferrell, star of the film, he is a skilful clown

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ON TOUR FOR THE 2024 HOLIDAY SEASON

2024 Tour Schedule

"a splashy, peppy, sugar-sprinkled holiday entertainment”" - the new york times, elf is happy enough for families, savvy enough for city kids and plenty smart for adults” - variety, “even the biggest cotton-headed-ninny-muggins will leave the theatre with a warm festive glow” - entertainment weekly, “fun for kids, edgy enough for adults and endearing for all” - tampa tribune.

ELF The Musical is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. This modern day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner ELF.

The New York Times says that ELF is “SPLASHY, PEPPY, SUGAR-SPRINKLED HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT!” USA Today calls ELF , “ENDEARINGLY GOOFY!” Variety proclaims, “ ELF is happy enough for families, savvy enough for city kids and plenty smart for adults!”

Based on the beloved 2003 New Line Cinema hit, ELF features songs by Tony Award® nominees Matthew Sklar (The Prom, The Wedding Singer) and Chad Beguelin (Aladdin, The Prom, The Wedding Singer) , with a book by Tony Award® winners Thomas Meehan (Annie, Hairspray, The Producers) and Bob Martin (The Drowsy Chaperone) .

Casting to be announced soon!

Creative team, coming soon.

is a fabulous entity who is excited you’re here spreading holiday cheer, and they are thankful to Buddy for helping lift their Christmas spirit. Cody is a huge supporter of buttering toast butter side up but appreciates all who butters their toast butter side down. When Cody isn’t frolicking, they can be found exhorting creativity and thriving emotionally. National tours: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Wonka). Other credits: Beauty and the Beast (Lumiere), and How a Moose Named Alaska Saved the Titanic: Part Two (Alaska). Alma mater: Boston Conservatory. Cody would like to thank Stephanie Bull Prehoda for writing this biography. Headshot: @miaisabellaphotography #BullSistersThreePlusCody @PopGoesTheCultureShock , codyrgarcia.com

joyfully returns to this beloved Christmas musical, with several years in international and North American tours: West Side Story , Elf , 42nd Street , the new musical, Elf on the Shelf , along with several regional productions including Mary Poppins , Kinky Boots , and Newsies . Happiest of Holidays!

B.F.A. from The University of Memphis, Musical Theatre and Minor in Dance. Credits: Emma A New Musical, Working the Musical, Trouble in Mind. Regional: Hairspray , Theatre Memphis; Jelly’s Last Jam , Hatiloo Theatre; Bright Star, Murder on the Orient Express and Kinky Boots (Lola), Charleston Stages; The Color Purple , The Revival Theatre Production; Sister Act , Interlakes Theatre. He enjoys performing any chance he gets and loves to inspire others to never give up. Thank you to Carla (Mother) and Terriney (Sister) for everything. To see more of him: Instagram @Jxlonzo Tiktok @jaytotheque30

is thrilled to be touring with Elf this holiday season! Favorite credits: A Christmas Story (Swing, ensemble 2021 nat’l tour) Regional: Matilda (Bruce), A Christmas Story (Randy), Oliver (Oliver), Beauty and the Beast (Chip). Many thanks to The Wrightway (Rance Wright, Joe Barros, Alison Franck), Slow Burn Theatre Company, Amy Tanner, RealDance, Stewart Whitley Casting, NETworks Production Company, Zoom Talent, CESD, and my family. Follow me on IG: @jaxonjamestheofficial

is so pleased to be back in Christmastown for a fourth time! Other National tours: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Mrs. Bucket), Flashdance the Musical (Ms. Wilde). Regional: Title of Show (Heidi), Legally Blonde (Brooke), Escape to Margaritaville (Rachel), Footloose (Vi Moore), Brigadoon (Meg), Great American Trailer Park Musical (Linoleum) and others. BFA from Western Michigan University. IG @unsophisticaitlin www.caitlinlestersams.com

is beyond excited to be making his touring debut with Elf! Regional: The 25th Annual…Spelling Bee , Seussical , A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder , Sunset Boulevard . This summer he sailed around Europe with Disney Cruise Line! Love to his incredible fiancé, Michael.

is thrilled to be playing Deb on this tour! Favorite roles include Chicago (Matron Mama Morton), National Tour; Avenue Q (Gary Coleman) and The Color Purple (Sofia). Most recent: Shrek (Dragon), Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre. Thankful to be back onstage with an amazing cast and for another opportunity to spread the joy of theatre.

SAG/AFTRA, originally from Michigan has performed all over the US and Canada. Credits: Little Night Music (Carl Magnus), Legally Blonde (Prof Callahan), National tour Dirty Dancing (Dr. Houseman), JCSS (Pilate), Mamma Mia! (Bill Austin), Les Mis and Friends (Javert). TV: Big Bang Theory, Mad Men, Young and Restless, Ellen Show, Friends With Better Lives, and Property Bros. Chris has also been in many national commercials and has been on the cover and centerfold of Men's Health magazine. Would like to thank his family and Elf! Thanks and God Bless! IMDb: Christopher Robert Smith @chrissmithtraining

National tour debut! Black. Fem. Artist and Storyteller hailing from NYC. Off Broadway: Hercules (Melpomene), B-Boy Blues the Play (Michi), Chronicle X (Knowledge), Lost in the Disco (Angelina), Midnight Mugshot (Principal Gordon). Virtual: WILMAR (Ugbad /Hamdi), Getting There (Tanaysha). Television: Only Murders in the Building (Hulu), Let the Right One In (Showtime), Skully and the Mole Crack the Case (NBC Peacock Kids), Teaching While Black . Film: B-Boy Blues (BET+) , Unlocked, Istikhaara, New York, Help Yourself. “A woman’s gifts will make room for her”- Hattie McDaniel. GOD Thank you, for without you I am nothing. IG: @officialtieishathomas

National tour debut! Favorite credits: Singin’ in the Rain (Kathy Selden), Dames at Sea (Ruby), West Side Story (Velma), Head Over Heels, The Little Mermaid at The Gateway; Beauty and the Beast at The ZACH. SMU graduate! Thank you Stewart/Whitley, Hell’s Kitchen Agency, and the creative team of Elf! Love to her supportive family and Jacob. IG: @shanconboy shannonconboy.com.

Favorite credits: Titus Andronicus (Lucius/Demetrius), Rose Playhouse London; Comfort (Peter), Lincoln Center; and Caddywhompus (Alex), Fringe NYC. He received a BFA in Theatre from the University of Memphis. For Kelly. Smile. Skip. Laugh. www.davidcouter.com

is thrilled to join the company of Elf! Will recently understudied as Christian Bechdel in Paramount theater’s Fun Home in Aurora, IL., and played Christopher Robbin in Winnie the Pooh at the Mercury Theater in Chicago, IL. He studies musical theater at Ovation Academy for the Performing Arts in Oak Park, IL. When he’s not on stage, he’s hanging out with his friends, playing baseball, basketball or soccer, or drawing in one of his many sketchbooks. He’d like to thank his agents at DDO Chicago and his Ovation family for their love and support!

National tour: Peter Pan starring Cathy Rigby (Michael Darling). Regional: Mamma Mia! (Lisa, Dance Captain), Smokey Joe’s Café (DeLee), Legally Blonde (Margot), …Spelling Bee (Logainne), A Chorus Line . BFA in Musical Theatre Dance: CCPA. Instagram: @thejodavis_

is so excited to be joining Elf this year! A graduate of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NYC. National tours: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory , Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville, A Charlie Brown Christmas Live. Regional: The Little Mermaid , Gateway Playhouse; Mamma Mia! , Ivoryton Playhouse; Guys and Dolls , ABT. Off-Broadway: My Princess Diana . He would like to thank his family, UIA Talent Agency & JHA Management. Enjoy the show! @nicoo_d

is so thrilled to be back on the road with Elf The Musical! National tour: Waitress . NYC: Bright & Brave, a new musical (Elliot), Dixon Place. Regional: Newsies (Davey), Grease (Roger), The Fantasticks (Matt), Spamalot (Sir Robin), Into the Woods (Baker) Floyd Collins (Homer, dir. Adam Guettel). A proud Boston Conservatory graduate! Many thanks to Stewart/Whitley and the Elf team for believing in me. Love to my family, friends, and Mom who have always supported me. @justin_glass

National tour debut! Regional: A Chorus Line , City Springs Theatre & Gallery Players; Elf , Arts Center of Coastal Carolina; La Cage Aux Folles and Mamma Mia , Little Theatre On The Square. Graduate of Marymount Manhattan Musical Theatre. Endless thanks to Mom, Dad, Stewart/Whitley, and Brian at Hell's Kitchen Agency. @evanhussey

(he/him) is thrilled to be making his national tour debut with Elf! Favorite credits include Kinky Boots (Angel Swing), The Engeman Theatre; Newsies (Elmer), Westchester Broadway Theatre; and Crazy For You (Sam/Cowboy Trio), The Sharon Playhouse. Thanks to his family and friends for all their love support! For Grandma and Lauren @tj_kubler

National tour debut! Favorite credits: Pippin (Catherine), A Chorus Line (Diana), Aida (Ensemble, u/s Amneris). Proud alum of Texas State University’s BFA Musical Theatre program. Special thanks to Stewart/Whitley, ATB, and the creative team of Elf ! Much love to Mom, Dad, Nick, family, and friends. Happy Holidays! @julianalamia . www.julianalamia.com

National tour debut! Recent International/Regional: Footloose (Travis), Norwegian Cruise Lines; Elements , Norwegian Cruise Lines; A Chorus Line (Bobby), Laguna Playhouse; West Side Story (Big Deal); ShBoom (Denny), Surflight. BFA - CAP21/Molloy University. Sending all his love to dad, mom, Dori, & Piper. @r_mulvaney

is thrilled to be joining the Elf family! National tour: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Mr. Bucket). Regional: Newsies (Elmer), Jerome Robbins’ Broadway (Motel), Joseph and the…Dreamcoat (Dan), Beauty and the Beast (Ensemble). NY Dance: Broadway Dance Lab, Trainor Dance, and Steps Repertory Ensemble. Columbia University graduate. Thanks to Stewart/Whitley and the entire Elf team! All the love to Mom, Dad, Matt, Joe, Kira, and Lila-Rose! @dpahl10

National tour debut! Favorite credits: Rock of Ages (Waitress 1), Saturday Night Fever (Stephanie), An American in Paris, West Side Story, and Beauty and the Beast (Disney Dream. opening cast). Oakland University. Special thanks to Stewart/Whitley, Hell’s Kitchen agency, and the creative team of Elf ! Much love to The Stys fam and Justin! IG: @eastys

Thrilled to be spreading Christmas cheer! National tour: Summer: The Donna Summer Musical . Off-Broadway: No Strings . Regional Theatre: A Chorus Line (New London Barn Playhouse). B.A. from Loyola Marymount University. Endless gratitude to the Elf creative team for this opportunity. All my love to mom, dad, and Austin! www.emileetheno.com | @emileetheno

“But the children love the books!” National tour: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Ensemble, u/s Mrs. Teavee, u/s Mrs. Gloop), Rodger & Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Gabrielle, u/s Marie). Thank you to the entire Elf team and NETworks family! Love to LDC Artists and momager, Nate Patten. For my family always! @nicolezelka / nicolezelka.com

National tour debut! Most recent credit: The Little Mermaid (Ursula), Gateway Playhouse. Other credits: A Chorus Line (Val), Weathervane Theater; Wedding Singer (Holly), Mamma Mia (Lisa), Clearspace Theater; and Elf (Ensemble), Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Thanks to the creative team for giving this fantastic opportunity, and a big thanks to mom, dad, Tommy, and toots.

Book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin

Thomas Meehan won the 2003 Tony Award® winner for co-writing the book for Hairspray after having won the 2001 Tony Award for co-writing the book of The Producers . He received his first Tony Award in 1977 for writing the book of Annie , which was his first Broadway show, and he has written books for the musicals I Remember Mama , Ain’t Broadway Grand , Annie Warbucks and the American version of Bombay Dreams . His work includes Annie, Chaplin, Elf the Musical, Young Frankenstein, for which he co-wrote the book with Mel Brooks, and Cry-Baby , co-written with Mark O’Donnell.

Bob Martin has been working as a writer, performer, and producer in television, film, and theatre in Canada and the US for more than three decades. Bob is co-creator of the musicals The Drowsy Chaperone , Elf the Musical , and The Prom , which are beloved by critics and audiences alike. The Prom was adapted into a Netflix film with an all-star cast. Recent theatre projects include Hey Look Me Over! (Encores!), Half Time (Chicago, Paper Mill), The Sting (Paper Mill). His theatrical endeavors in development include Night at the Museum , The Princess Bride , Smash , and a sequel to The Drowsy Chaperone . Mr. Martin was the co-creator of Slings & Arrows, which multiple publications continue to name as one of the best television shows of all time. His television projects also include Michael: Tuesdays and Thursdays (CBC), Michael: Everyday (CBC), and Sensitive Skin (HBO), with more in development.

Music by Matthew Sklar

Two-time Tony, Emmy Award-nominated composer of The Prom (Tony nom. for Best Original Score, winner of the Dramatists Guild Frederick Loewe Award), Elf the Musical , and The Wedding Singer (Tony nom. for Best Original Score). Film/TV: The Prom (Golden Globe nom. for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy), Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas (Emmy nom. for Outstanding Music Direction), Sesame Street, Wonder Pets! and PBS’s American Masters . Honors also include the ASCAP Foundation Richard Rodgers New Horizons Award, the Gilman/ Gonzalez-Falla Theatre Award, and the Jonathan Larson Performing Arts Foundation.

Lyrics by Chad Beguelin

Chad Beguelin is a six-time Tony Award-nominee whose works include Disney’s Aladdin (Tony noms. for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk noms. for Outstanding Lyrics and Best Book), The Prom (Tony noms. For Best Book and Best Original Score and Drama Desk noms. for Best Book and Outstanding Lyrics), and The Wedding Singer (Tony noms. for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk nom for Outstanding Lyrics). He also wrote the lyrics for Elf the Musical . Chad is the recipient of the Edward Kleban Award for Outstanding Lyric Writing, the Jonathan Larson Performing Arts Foundation Award, the Gilman & Gonzalez-Falla Musical Theater Award, and the ASCAP Foundation Richard Rodgers New Horizons Award. Chad is a graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts Graduate Dramatic Writing Program. Much love to his husband Tom.

Directed by Sam Scalamoni

Sam Scalamoni is proud of the critically acclaimed Elf the Musical which has toured the U.S. since 2012 with successful runs at The Kennedy Center and The Theatre at Madison Square Garden! In 2022 he directed the world premiere of the award-winning musical A Thousand Faces , based on the life of film legend Lon Chaney. In development he has; Unbelievable , based on baseball legend Jackie Mitchell and a miniseries based on the same story titled Lookout. Sam developed and directed the new musical, The Elf on the Shelf; A Christmas Musical , the premiere of the holiday musical Noel with book by best-selling author of the Artemis Fowl series, Eoin Colfer and Disney’s Beauty and the Beast for the Ogunquit Playhouse and North Carolina Theatre. Sam is the Associate Director of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast which he also supervised on Broadway and mounted multiple companies worldwide, most recently in Tokyo. He directed Les Misérables winning the SALT Award for Best Director of a Musical and Best Musical of the Year and Agatha Christie’s An Unexpected Guest , winning the Broadway World Award for Best Director of a Play both at Cortland Repertory Theatre. His Nickelodeon’s Storytime Live! broke box office records at Radio City Music Hall. For Tricia, Spencer and Mia.

Choreography by Connor Gallagher

Broadway: Beetlejuice , The Robber Bridegroom (Roundabout Theatre Company, Astaire Award, Calloway nominee). Connor most recently directed a reimagined Beauty and the Beast for Disney Creative Entertainment (Brass Ring Award). Recent works include Found (Philadelphia Theatre Company), Elf the Musical (Kennedy Center), The Twelve (The Denver Center), Tangled (world premiere); and productions at The Public Theater, Shakespeare Theatre Company, American Conservatory Theater, Two River Theatre, Westport Country Playhouse, The Goodspeed Opera House, TheatreWorks, and Northern Stage. Spent a year on Broadway as a dancing rug. connorgallagher.com

Scenic Design by Christine Peters

Credits: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory tour, Tootsie tour, Elf the Musical tour, 1st Date , Mickey & Minnie’s Doorway to Magic . Broadway (associate designer): King Kong Alive on Broadway , Miss Saigon , 1984 , Paramour , Les Misérables , Testament of Mary , Jekyll & Hyde , The Book of Mormon , Newsies The Musical , The Addams Family , Elf the Musical , Bonnie and Clyde , The House of Blue Leaves , Elling , Enron , Mary Stuart , The American Plan , Cyrano de Bergerac , Chita Rivera . National tours (associate designer): Newsies , Dirty Dancing , Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Wizard of Oz , The Phantom of the Opera , Jekyll and Hyde , Mary Poppins , Les Misérables , Beauty and the Beast .

Costume Design by Gregg Barnes

Broadway: Some Like It Hot (Upcoming), Pretty Woman, Mean Girls (Tony nom.), Tuck Everlasting (Tony nom.), Something Rotten! (Tony nom.), Aladdin, Kinky Boots (Tony nom., Olivier Award), Follies (Tony Award, Drama Desk Award), Elf the Musical, Legally Blonde (Tony nom.), The Drowsy Chaperone (Tony Award, Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Award, Olivier nom.), Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Flower Drum Song (Tony nom.), Side Show. Other: Dreamgirls (Olivier nomination), Sinatra (Radio City), Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Pageant (Olivier Nomination), The Kathy and Mo Show. TDF Young Master Award.

Lighting Design by Paul Miller

Broadway: Ruben & Clay’s Christmas Show, Amazing Grace, The Illusionists, Legally Blonde, Freshly Squeezed, Laughing Room Only . National tours: The Illusionists, Elf the Musical, The Producers, Hairspray, Nunsense . Many commercial Off-Broadway productions and City Center Encores! Regional: The Old Globe, Stratford Shakespeare Festival (Ontario), DC Shakespeare, Chicago Shakespeare, Idaho Shakespeare, Great Lakes Theatre Co, Asolo Rep, American Conservatory Theatre, Cleveland Playhouse, Pasadena Playhouse, The Goodspeed Opera House, Pittsburgh CLO, and Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theatre, among others. Ballet: The New Jersey Ballet, Eglevsky Ballet, Grand Rapids Ballet. Television: Live from Lincoln Center, Netflix, Showtime, Comedy Central. International: Productions WHO’S WHO in São Paulo, Toronto, London, Vienna, Milan (Teatro alla Scala), Manila, Johannesburg, Beijing, Slovenia, Canada, and Mexico. Paul has been the Lighting Director for the internationally televised New Year’s Eve Celebration from New York’s Times Square for the last 20 years. He is originally from Chicago and trained at The Theatre School at DePaul University.

Sound Design by Shannon Slaton

Shannon Slaton has designed many national tours including Shrek ; Once on this Island ; The Producers ; Kiss Me, Kate ; Noise/Funk ; The Full Monty ; Contact ; A Chorus Line ; Tap Dogs ; Sweeney Todd ; The Wizard of Oz ; The Drowsy Chaperone ; and The Wedding Singer . He was production sound for The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway and national tour, and advance sound for Wicked . Shows he has mixed on Broadway include Springsteen on Broadway, Man of La Mancha, Bombay Dreams, A Christmas Carol, Sweet Charity, Jersey Boys, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, The Drowsy Chaperone, Spring Awakening, Fela!, Anything Goes, Annie, Legally Blonde, and Cabaret.

Hair Design by Bernie Ardia

Bernie Ardia is a California native with a 40-year career starting in print and television. He has designed for over 75 productions including: Cameron Mackintosh’s Les Misérables and Oliver , Kiss of the Spider Woman with Chita Rivera , Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express (Las Vegas), Cinderella with Eartha Kitt ; and Hairspray (recreating Paul Huntley’s designs). He is also the author of Barbra Streisand in New York City , and presenting the upcoming At Sea with Patrick Dennis, My Madcap Mexican Adventure with the Author of Auntie Mame (pub. Ratteling Good Yarns).

Orchestrations by Doug Besterman

Three-time Tony Award-winner. Broadway: Anastasia, A Bronx Tale, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, It Shoulda Been You, Bullets Over Broadway (Tony nom.), Rocky, On a Clear Day..., Sister Act, How to Succeed... (Tony nom.), Elf the Musical, Young Frankenstein (Drama Desk nom.), Tarzan, Dracula, Thoroughly Modern Millie (2002 Tony/Drama Desk Awards), The Producers (2001 Tony/Drama Desk Awards), Seussical, The Music Man (Drama Desk/Tony noms.), Fosse (1999 Tony), Big (Drama Desk nom.), Damn Yankees (Drama Desk nom.). Off-Broadway: Carrie, Weird Romance . Regional: The Honeymooners, The Sting . TV/Film: Schmigadoon, Mary Poppins Returns, Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, Chicago, Mulan .

Music Supervisor: Nate Patten

Nate Patten was the music director for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory on Broadway as well as music supervisor for the Australian company. Other Broadway: Company (with Patti LuPone), The Prom, Ain’t Too Proud, Be More Chill, Beautiful, School of Rock, Catch Me If You Can. Kennedy Center: Elf the Musical . Off Broadway: Silence! The Musical (also in L.A.), The Toxic Avenger . Tours: Flashdance, We Will Rock You, Beauty and the Beast, The Wedding Singer, The Wizard of Oz . Nate is also the host of a popular podcast called Patten Disregard featuring interviews with Broadway celebrities. @natepatten

Music Coordinator: John Mezzio

John Mezzio has conducted national tours including State Fair starring John Davidson, Victor Victoria starring Toni Tennille, and Cinderella starring Eartha Kitt and Deborah Gibson. Additionally, Mr. Mezzio was Associate Conductor for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express at the Las Vegas Hilton. National tours: Oklahoma!, The Producers, Spring Awakening, Memphis, Beauty and the Beast , and Elf the Musical .

Casting by Wojcik Casting Team

Duncan Stewart CSA and Benton Whitley CSA. Broadway/NY: Hadestown (Artios Award), Chicago , Paradise Square , Rock of Ages , The Lightning Thief , ...the Great Comet of 1812 , Elf the Musical, On the Town, Pippin, La Cage aux Folles, Radio City Christmas Spectacular . TV/Film: Netflix, 20th Century Fox, NBC, Lionsgate, Disney Channel. West End/UK: Hadestown, Thriller Live, Menier Chocolate Factory . Tours: Hadestown, Hairspray, Waitress, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Finding Neverland, Into the Woods, We Will Rock You . Regional: ART, Berkeley Rep, Alley, Bay Street, For the Record, TUTS, Hollywood Bowl, McCarter, Signature, RCCL . @stewartwhitley , stewartwhitley.com

Exclusive Tour Direction by RoadCo Entertainment

RoadCo Entertainment is a producing and distribution agency specializing in live entertainment experiences. A collaboration between Sony Music Entertainment and BSL Enterprises, RoadCo represents a broad roster of live events based on popular brands and pre-existing intellectual properties, as well as all-new immersive, interactive attractions for viewers of all ages.

Tour Marketing & Press: Allied Global Marketing

Allied Global Marketing is an integrated marketing agency working with the world’s largest entertainment, sports, consumer, and lifestyle brands, including 75+ Broadway shows over more than two decades. Current tours: Ain’t Too Proud, Beetlejuice, The Book of Mormon, Hadestown, The Hip Hop Nutcracker, Mean Girls, Pretty Woman, Tootsie . Upcoming tours: Funny Girl, Mrs. Doubtfire .

Interactive Marketing: Think Tank Marketing

Producer: networks presentations.

Networks Presentations is an industry-leading producer of touring theatrical productions, committed to delivering quality entertainment to audiences worldwide for more than 25 years. Current and upcoming productions include 1776, Anastasia, Blue Man Group, Beetlejuice, The Book of Mormon, Elf the Musical, Fiddler on the Roof, Hairspray, Les Misérables, Peter Pan, and To Kill a Mockingbird . networkstours.com

Executive Producer: Trinity Wheeler

Broadway: 1776 (dirs. Diane Paulus and Jeffrey Page), Les Misérables . National tours: The Sound of Music (dir. Jack O’Brien), Finding Neverland, Once on This Island, Waitress, The SpongeBob Musical, Chicago, Dirty Dancing, Elf the Musical, The Producers, The Wedding Singer, Oklahoma!, Funny Girl, The Wizard of Oz, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, The Phantom of the Opera, Mary Poppins, Young Frankenstein starring Roger Bart , and Rent starring Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp . Current projects: Les Misérables, Hairspray, 1776, Peter Pan (dir. Lonny Price). Host of Rhapsody Radio (Apple Podcasts, Spotify). Love to Alan, Colin, Richard, Sawyer, Huck, Curry and Alfie. @trinityonbroadway

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Theater | Review: ‘Elf: The Musical’ at Drury Lane…

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Theater | review: ‘elf: the musical’ at drury lane theatre: the cast does its best with a misguided coal lump of a musical.

On paper, “Elf” — the 2003 comedy starring Will Ferrell and written by David Berenbaum — seems like a great candidate for a screen-to-stage adaptation. After all, protagonist Buddy, a grown man who was raised by elves on the North Pole, holds the mantra, “the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” In the climactic scene, Christmas is saved by singing holiday songs to power Santa’s sleigh. Why not make it into a musical?

That’s what happened in 2010, when an adaptation with a book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin, music by Matthew Sklar and lyrics by Chad Beguelin opened on Broadway. The musical has since toured North America, transferred to London’s West End and made the rounds at the major suburban Chicago theaters. This holiday season, a production directed and choreographed by Lynne Kurdziel Formato plays at Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook Terrace.

The main problem with the musical adaptation is that it loses a key part of the film’s comedic setup. Much of the movie’s humor stems from its fish-out-of-water premise: Buddy, though lovable, comes across as deeply weird in the unfamiliar setting of New York City, where he travels to find his human father. Buddy chews used gum that he finds on the subway railings. He drenches his spaghetti with breakfast syrup. He buys lingerie for his dad because it’s advertised as the perfect gift for “someone special.”

Sometimes, just sometimes, Buddy’s childlike enthusiasm works its magic on others, and they begin to sing or dance along with him — whether they’re disgruntled workers in a mail room or jaded New Yorkers in Central Park.

However, when this story becomes a piece of musical theater, characters break into song and dance at regular intervals anyway — even Buddy’s publishing executive father, Walter Hobbs (Sean Fortunato), who is (gasp!) on the naughty list. That’s how musicals work. In this sense, Buddy (Ben Dow), despite his quirks, fits right in to this world.

For example, where he secretly gives a tinselly makeover to a department store’s Christmas display in the film, the musical has Buddy effortlessly winning over the employees — overworked, presumably earning minimum wage and distinctly not in the holiday spirit — to help him decorate, with a goofy song and dance break to boot. It’s just too easy.

The songs don’t add much to the show, either. The tunes aren’t particularly memorable, and a few lyrics have not aged well, including a joke about bipolar disorder. Kurdziel Formato’s choreography offers some entertaining moments but falls short of the spectacle that Drury Lane audiences saw from her in the early 2020 production of “An American in Paris” (a dance-heavier show, in all fairness).

Nevertheless, this cast makes the most of the material. Dow is a gentler, more soft-spoken Buddy than Ferrell — no tackling Christmas trees or lobbing snowball missiles here — and puts his own spin on iconic lines from the film. The musical includes some new jokes aimed at the adults in the audience; for example, Buddy unwittingly makes suggestive remarks while flirting with his crush, Jovie (Lydia Burke).

Burke, by the way, has a lovely voice that is sorely underused with only one solo number. None of the female characters have a lot to do in the show, which is a shame because the cast includes prolific Chicago actors Marya Grandy as Walter’s assistant, Deb, and Melody A. Betts as his wife, Emily. However, Betts does share some sweet moments with Gabriel Solis (at the performance I saw) as their 12-year-old son, Michael.

A.D. Weaver is a comedic standout as Santa, who narrates the story from his armchair with a mug of “single melt cocoa,” taking a well-earned break from his exhaustingly cheerful elves after another busy Christmas Eve. Lorenzo Parnell also provides some laughs in the smaller role of the manager at Macy’s. Fortunato, who last appeared at Drury Lane as Miss Trunchbull in “Matilda,” doesn’t get to show off his comedic chops here but does a fine job with Walter’s Scrooge-like transformation from workaholic to family man.

I’m happy to admit that I love the original film as much as the next millennial who grew up on “Elf,” although these days I usually turn it off about two thirds of the way through, when the funniest parts of Buddy adjusting to life in New York are over. That’s why the musical version lost me early on — it’s simply not very funny. While I fault the adaptation rather than this particular cast or director, it’s still disappointing. I’m not the first and won’t be the last to write this, but some hit films just don’t translate into good musicals.

Review: “Elf: The Musical” (2 stars)

When: Through Jan. 8

Where: Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace

Running time: 2 hours, 35 minutes

Tickets: $75-$85 at 630-530-0111 or DruryLaneTheatre.com

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Elf the Musical Review Round Up, Dominion Theatre London 2022

We take a look at what the reviewers thought of Elf the Musical starring Simon Lipkin, Georgina Castle and Tom Chambers which is now playing at the Dominion Theatre, London.

Elf the Musical is now playing at The Dominion Theatre, London until 7 January 2023. Here’s what critics thought of this production which stars Simon Lipkin as Buddy the Elf.

BOOK ELF THE MUSICAL TICKETS HERE

The stage adaptation of the beloved Will Ferrell film bounds joyously back into town

‘Elf the Musical’ rolls back into the West End with the same blunt-force charm as Buddy, its star. The last time this production was at the Dominion Theatre, in 2015, it was the venue’s fastest-selling show in nearly a century. It’d be a huuuge surprise if it’s not a success this time either.

This show lives or dies depending on its Buddy. Thankfully, Simon Lipkin knocks it out of the park.

Tom Wicker – Time Out 4 Stars

Pure feel-good joy with just enough Christmas schmaltz!

what keeps Philip McKinley’s New York production – which first arrived on this very stage in 2015 as fresh as newly fallen snow – is British star Lipkin.

This well-known yet underrated musical theatre regular (also the star of the most recent Nativity movie) is just terrific in the decidedly un-elfin title role. Well supported by Georgina Castle’s New York ice queen Jovie, who somewhat inexplicably falls for this lummox’s guileless charm, the immensely likeable Lipkin moves with a grace and agility that belies his size.

He is so good in fact, you don’t miss Ferrell at all.

John Nathan – Metro 4 Stars

Who needs Will Ferrell? This show is a real cracker!

The 2003 film Elf is an established seasonal favourite and, inevitably, audiences will have Will Ferrell lodged in their heads when they think of Santa’s hapless ‘little’ helper Buddy.

Thankfully, Simon Lipkin in Elf The Musical overcomes any comparisons (and a dreadful wig) to make a convincing lead.

Philip McKinley’s classy revival — the scenes in Macy’s look particularly gorgeous in Tim Goodchild’s design — has some rousing song-and-dance numbers (the book is by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin, with songs by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, choreography by Liam Steel).

Veronica Lee – Daily Mail 3 Stars

This musical adaptation of the Will Ferrell movie is infectiously upbeat and a riot of colour, comedy and Christmas magic.

Paul Vale – The Stage 3 Stars

Buddy’s back with some syrupy showtunes.

Despite some appealing performances and a tight candy-cane-twirling ensemble, it comes close to the blandly corporate Christmas experience it sets out to satirise and doesn’t muster a lot more joy than the kind of department store grotto in its story.

Chris Wiegand – The Guardian 2 Stars

This is an Elf warning: Elf the Musical isn’t very good. It jettisons most of what is sly and subtle about the sublime 2003 Christmas film on which it’s based, in favour of sappy sentiment and bland songs.

Nick Curtis – Evening Standard 2 Stars

Douglas Mayo has had a life long love affair with musical theatre. He has authored several books on publicity and marketing for amateur theatre groups. He is in the process of developing a musical based on his original story concept.

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Infectiously upbeat musical adaptation of the Will Ferrell movie

This musical adaptation of the 2003 movie first swept into the West End from Broadway in 2015 . The film that spawned it, staring Will Ferrell, remains hugely popular on both sides of the Atlantic, and this revival of the show, directed by Philip Wm McKinley, delivers its Christmas cheer with the vehemence of a Broadway belt.

The book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin differs greatly from the movie, paring down the plot to a brash update of Miracle on 34th Street. Candy canes are waved, families reconnect, and the cynical inhabitants of New York City are persuaded to believe in Santa once again. The catalyst is Buddy, a human adopted by elves but cast adrift from the North Pole to search for his real father. It’s best to take the show as a stand-alone piece, packed with infectious musical numbers and, thanks to choreographer Liam Steel, plenty of lively dance routines. Matthew Sklar’s punchy score is an unrelenting musical sugar rush. It could benefit from a few gentler, more introspective numbers – everything here is full-throttle.

As Buddy, Simon Lipkin faces a huge challenge to match the wide-eyed innocence of Ferrell’s titular elf – but he pulls it off with skill and dexterity. Lipkin not only masters the verbal ticks and mannerisms that define Buddy, but he is also a richly physical performer, disciplined enough not to play to the gallery. The book doesn’t allow much time for character development, so as charming as Georgina Castle is as Buddy’s love-interest Jovie, her story is frustratingly underwritten.

While Lipkin and Castle are a good fit, Tom Chambers as the curmudgeonly Mr Hobbs seems oddly miscast. Chambers is undeniably capable, but this role doesn’t make the best of his talent as a dancer and leading man. Still, that doesn’t dampen the spirit of a production that boasts a talented ensemble and strong supporting players. Rebecca Lock brings warmth and resilience to the role of Mrs Hobbs, fighting to bring her family together at Christmas. Lock’s scenes with Logan Clark as son Michael (a role shared with Dexter Barry, Alfie Morwood and Frankie Treadaway) form the heart of this show. Both performers have exceptional singing voices and their duet There Is a Santa Claus is a heartwarming showstopper. 

The charm of Tim Goodchild’s set design is sadly diminished by some disappointing video animation, but otherwise, the show is a riot of colour, comedy and Christmas magic. Devotees of the movie might disagree, but as a seasonal family show it hits all the right notes.

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Nicholas Pound as Santa Simon Lipkin as Buddy in Elf The Musical credit Mark Senior

Review: ELF The Musical at Dominion Theatre

"this production of elf: the musical offers a version of the beloved story that spreads christmas cheer for all in london to hear".

This isn’t the musical’s first time in the West End, but the production has been given a spruce up for this year’s run.  Audiences will, of course, already have an inkling of what to expect, because who hasn’t seen the beloved 2003 hit movie starring Will Ferrell, on which this musical is based?

With a book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin, and songs by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, the musical follows Buddy the Elf, played here by Simon Lipkin, as he discovers that he was found as a baby in Santa’s sack, and wasn’t born an elf as he’d always believed.

So, it’s off to Manhattan for Buddy, as he tracks down his birth father, falling in love with Jovie along the way.  Like the movie, so much of the comedy comes from Buddy’s unfamiliarity with the human world, an innocent abroad scenario that’s both hilarious and heart-warming.

Speaking of which, ELF: The Musical comes with a very touching story arc between Buddy’s step-mum, Emily ( Rebecca Lock ) and her son Michael (Logan Clark on press night).  The relationship between the two could melt the hardest of hearts, and their duets, such as ‘There Is A Santa Claus’ are beautifully done.

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Simon Lipkin is bursting with energetic joie de vivre as the ever-innocent buddy.  You can tell Lipkin is having fun with the role, and may even have thrown in the odd ad-lib for extra comic effect.  Lipkin works well with Georgina Castle in the role of Jovie, who creates a version of the character that’s subtly different from the film but is perfect for the stage version.

ELF: The Musical has a surprisingly enjoyable score, with a plenty of big ensemble numbers, such as ‘Sparklejollytwinklejingley’ and ‘Nobody Cares About Santa’, accompanied by Liam Steel’s vivid choreography, they have the audience toe tapping along in unrestrained joy.

The vast Dominion stage is bursting with Christmas cheer, with fantastic set design from Tim Goodchild.  But it’s Philip Wm. McKinley’s considered vision as director that brings all the elements together to create this Christmas treat for all the family, with a surprise finale that brings out the child in all of us.

Audiences who are worried this stage version might be an Asda-price version of the movie, needn’t worry. This production of ELF: The Musical offers a version of the beloved story that spreads Christmas cheer for all in London to hear.

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Greg Stewart

Greg is an award-winning writer with a huge passion for theatre. He has appeared on stage, as well as having directed several plays in his native Scotland. Greg is the founder and editor of Theatre Weekly

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Review of Elf The Musical at the Dominion Theatre

November 18, 2015 Last updated: May 8, 2019 3:16 pm By Chris Omaweng

The role of Buddy is completely inhabited by Ben Forster, the show’s hyperactive tour de force. Not so much likeable as loveable, Forster’s Buddy is endearing even when he is inadvertently wreaking havoc – undeniably, the complete lack of malicious intent almost guarantees his continued approval on the audience’s part throughout. A highly energetic character, he is missed when off-stage, and we’re left with characters that don’t achieve a similarly strong rapport with the audience. I realise this may be very deliberate, and at times probably helps to justify Buddy’s existence at all at certain points in the narrative.

There’s a decent mixture of tunes, played by an impeccable orchestra, led by Stuart Morley, who seems to like the Dominion Theatre : he was musical director for a number of years for We Will Rock You in the same venue. The song ‘I’ll Believe In You’ follows in the footsteps of Billy Elliot the Musical  and Made in Dagenham in lyricizing the words of a poignant and deeply emotionally charged letter – just in case anyone was wondering if it was all jingle bells and glamour. And then there was ‘Nobody Cares About Santa’, where the children of today are derided for not paying nearly as much attention to shopping centre Santas as the children of yesteryear.

Aside from that, though, the songs are not particularly memorable, even if there is something quite  Mary Poppins -esque in Buddy extolling the virtues of making even the most mundane of tasks seem fun – through song. But mostly it is, as The Pajama Game would put it, “all going in one ear, and out the other”. If I’m referencing a lot of other names and shows , it’s only because Elf does so itself, with mentions of The Ice Man Cometh, Billy Crystal and Miracle on 34th Street.

I found it odd that Kimberley Walsh as Jovie could have thousands enraptured in a previous incarnation as a member of the popular music group Girls Aloud, but seemed a little unengaging and detached here. There are, though, stand out performances in both Joe McGann’s Walter and Jennie Dale’s Deb, the former’s ever-confident nature and the latter’s playful and bubbly persona both always welcome.

Elf isn’t for everyone. A few audience members walked out well before the interval, and still others did not return for Act Two. At times the show comes across as not quite big enough to fill the large Dominion stage space. A few musical numbers seemed to be there as fillers to help the show reach its 10.00pm finish. Some of the narrative is too predictable, and other parts of it too implausible. But in the mix of various protagonists and antagonists, it’s pleasing to see it’s more sophisticated than a simplistic ‘good’ meaning ‘very, very good’ and ‘bad’ meaning ‘horrid’.

There are enough jokes and punchlines to entertain the mums and dads – and other big people in the audience clearly obsessed by any and all things Christmas. It doesn’t quite reach the incredible heights that would justify those infamous premium seat prices (you could always write a letter to Santa requesting tickets to Elf…), but it’s very pleasant nonetheless. I would recommend it to those who would like a seasonal show but without the audience participation and near-anarchy of a panto.

Review by Chris Omaweng

ELF is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.

Elf The Musical Dominion Theatre 268-269 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7AQ 24th October 2015 – 2nd January 2016 Monday – Saturday 7.30pm Wednesday & Saturday 2.30pm

It’s bye for now from Buddy…

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'This show is a real cracker' Daily Mail

'The festive favourite is back for a sparklejollytwinklejingley time!' What’s On Stage

'Elf is a Christmas cracker! Full to the brim with Christmas spirit' Katie Breathwick, Classic FM

'This is truly, the Christmas cake of musicals' The Times

'The ultimate feel good Christmas show…with bells on' Simon Beale, Heart Radio

'A charming evening’s entertainment for children of all ages' Evening Standard

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San Diego-raised Broadway vets celebrate 10th anniversary of ‘Aladdin’ musical

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In 1979, San Diego Junior Theatre alumni Casey Nicholaw and Gregg Barnes met for the first time in rehearsals for The Old Globe’s “The Robber Bridegroom” musical. Nicholaw played a teen character named “Goat.” Barnes played a wood plank and a frog.

Nicholaw’s acting career would eventually sputter out and Barnes jokes that he only acted so he had an excuse to wear mascara. Fortunately for the lifelong friends, their considerable other talents have made them the toast of Broadway.

Over the past nearly 46 years, the buddies have amassed a collective five Tony Awards and 23 nominations — Nicholaw for directing and choreography, Barnes for costume design. They’ve also worked together on 12 musicals, including the Broadway productions of “The Drowsy Chaperone,” “Elf,” “Something Rotten!,” “Tuck Everlasting,” “Mean Girls,” “The Prom” and last year’s “Some Like It Hot.”

But the Broadway collaboration that has brought them the most success and some of their greatest satisfaction is “Aladdin,” which celebrated its 10th anniversary on Broadway March 20 and returns to their hometown next week in a national tour at the San Diego Civic Theatre. “Aladdin” now ranks among the top 10 highest-grossing Broadway shows of all time and it’s the 15th longest-running show in Broadway history, according to BroadwayWorld.

“Aladdin” is based on Disney’s 1992 animated film, which was inspired by the 18th-century “Arabian Nights” folktales about a young man who discovers a genie in a magic lamp that grants Aladdin wishes to help him win the heart of a sultan’s daughter. The 2014 Broadway musical features several additional songs, as well as four new human characters who replace the animated parrot Iago and monkey Abu from the film. Nicholaw directed and choreographed the musical and Barnes designed the costumes.

The two men talked about their long friendship and about “Aladdin” last week in a joint Zoom call. Nicholaw was in Hamburg, Germany, where Disney’s “Hercules” musical (he’s directing, Barnes designed costumes) is now in previews. Barnes was in London, where he’s designing costumes for an upcoming musical adaptation of “The Devil Wears Prada.”

Nicholaw got choked up at one point talking about how much he treasures his friendship with Barnes. “It’s the best feeling in the world to know that you’ve known someone that long.”

Twenty-four years after they met in “The Robber Bridegroom,” Nicholaw and Barnes were hired by director Des McAnuff for a 2003 Frank Sinatra-themed show at Radio City Music Hall (Nicholaw choreographed the piece and Barnes designed costumes).

They enjoyed that collaboration in “Sinatra” so much that they teamed up again for the Old Globe’s 2004 production of “Lucky Duck.” Two years later, Nicholaw made his Broadway directing debut in “The Drowsy Chaperone,” and Barnes’ costumes for the show won him the first of his three Tony awards. (Nicholaw has two Tonys, for co-directing “The Book of Mormon” and choreographing “Some Like It Hot.”)

After “Drowsy,” the pals found every opportunity to work together. Nicholaw said that because he and Barnes grew up in San Diego with similar interests and share the same Southern California pop culture memories — particularly a deep passion for Disneyland — they have developed their own verbal shorthand for developing ideas.

“When we were working on designs for ‘Aladdin,’ Casey would say, ‘you know the last lap of It’s a Small World?” Barnes said, referring to the classic Disneyland ride. From just those 10 words, Barnes said he instantly knew the costume color palette Nicholaw wanted for the musical’s final scene.

Nicholaw and Barnes were working on the 2010 musical “Elf” in a New York rehearsal studio when they stumbled upon an early workshop for “Aladdin” taking place in the same building.

“We walked into the hallway and we could hear this energy coming from the room,” Barnes recalled. “We weren’t part of it yet but I remember thinking whoever gets to work on this, it’s going to be a very big event, never thinking it would be me.”

“Aladdin” had its first tryout in Seattle in 2011, then underwent major rewrites before it tried out again in Toronto. But Nicholaw said the show still wasn’t working after Toronto, so about a third of the script was scrapped, scenes were moved around and songs were rewritten. By the time it finally arrived on Broadway it was in solid shape.

Barnes said the lush and imaginative costumes he designed for “Aladdin,” drew on inspiration from the Orientalist paintings of Victorian England, Hollywood kitsch and the animated Disney film. He also got helpful direction from Nicholaw, who looked through Barnes’ folders of research materials early in the process.

“His eye is so acute. He could look at it and say ‘there’s something here’ or ‘this really intrigues me’ and he gives me so many of the keys to it that are already in his head that I just try to pay attention,” Barnes said.

Ten years in, “Aladdin” is still selling at 95 percent capacity in Manhattan’s 1,700-seat New Amsterdam Theatre. There are also ongoing tours in North America and the U.K., and long-running productions at theaters in Japan and Spain.

Nicholaw credits the success of “Aladdin” to its multigenerational appeal. Much of the audience is adults, who first saw “Aladdin” when they were children and they’re now attending the show as either a date night or to introduce the story to their children or grandchildren. As testament to the show’s appeal to grown-ups, “Aladdin” has the highest alcoholic beverage sales of all Disney Broadway shows.

Nicholaw praised Thomas Schumacher and Anne Quart of Disney Theatrical Group for making the “Aladdin” company, both onstage and backstage, a harmonious and happy ensemble over the years. “They have really treated people well ... it’s such a great experience.”

Asked to describe why the show has outlasted more than a hundred other Broadway shows that have opened (and closed) in the past 10 years, Nicholaw said: “It’s a really good time, a good story, a great score and it’s sort of an aged-up version of the movie.”

Barnes’ thoughts? “It has everything — heart, spectacle and humor, and it appeals to all of our past with our families. Certainly it’s not just for kids.”

When: 7 p.m. Wednesday ; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Thursday ; 7:30 p.m. April 5; 2 and 7:30 p.m. April 6; 1 and 7:30 p.m. April 7

Where: San Diego Civic Theatre, 110 Third Ave., Downtown

Tickets: $34 and up

Online: broadwaysd.com

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ELF THE MUSICAL National Tour is Coming to the Fabulous Fox Theatre in December

ELF is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole.

The 2022 Non-Equity national tour of ELF THE MUSICAL launched November 5 in Paducah, KY, and will visit twelve U.S. cities throughout the holiday season including a stop in St. Louis at the Fabulous Fox Theatre December 20-24. The full tour route and ticket information are available at ElfTheMusicalTour.com .

The tour will be led by Cody Garcia as Buddy, Mark Fishback as Santa, Jerquintez Alonzo Gipson as Store Manager, Jaxon James as Michael, Caitlin Lester-Sams as Emily, Bobby Montaniz as Mr. Greenway, Nakiya Peterkin as Deb, Christopher Robert Smith as Walter, and Tieisha Thomas as Jovie.

The ensemble will feature Shannon Conboy , David Couter , Will Daly , Nico DiPrimio , Justin Glass , Evan Hussey , TJ Kubler , Juliana Lamia , Ryan Mulvaney , Emily Ann Stys , Emilee Theno , Nicole Zelka , and Cait Zuckerman . Swings will include Jo Davis and Daniel Pahl .

Tickets for ELF THE MUSICAL at the Fabulous Fox are on sale now at MetroTix.com or by calling 314-534-1111. Ticket prices start at $25. Prices are subject to change; please refer to FabulousFox.com for current pricing. ELF THE MUSICAL is part of the U.S. Bank Broadway Series.

Performances of ELF THE MUSICAL at the Fabulous Fox run December 20-24. Show times are Tuesday through Friday evening at 7:30 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday afternoon at 1:00 p.m.

ELF is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa's bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy's enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa's permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. This modern-day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner ELF.

ELF opened on Broadway on November 14, 2010, at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre, returning to Broadway in 2012. The First National Tour launched in 2012 with tours running each holiday season through 2018. ELF returns to touring in the 2022 holiday season following a three-year hiatus.

Based on the beloved 2003 New Line Cinema hit, ELF features songs by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar (The Prom, The Wedding Singer) and Chad Beguelin (Aladdin, The Prom, The Wedding Singer), with a book by Tony Award winners Thomas Meehan (Annie, The Producers, Hairspray) and Bob Martin (The Drowsy Chaperone). The production will feature direction by Sam Scalamoni and choreography by Connor Gallagher .

Additional information is available at ElfTheMusicalTour.com .

Cody Garcia

(Buddy) is a fabulous entity who is excited you're here spreading holiday cheer, and they are thankful to Buddy for helping lift their Christmas spirit. Cody is a huge supporter of buttering toast butter side up but appreciates all who butters their toast butter side down. When Cody isn't frolicking, they can be found exhorting creativity and thriving emotionally. National tours: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Wonka). Other credits: Beauty and the Beast (Lumiere), and How a Moose Named Alaska Saved the Titanic: Part Two (Alaska). Alma mater: Boston Conservatory. Cody would like to thank Stephanie Bull Prehoda for writing this biography. Headshot: @miaisabellaphotography #BullSistersThreePlusCody @popgoesthecultureshock www.codyrgarcia.com

Mark Fishback

( Santa) joyfully returns to this beloved Christmas musical, with several years in international and North American tours: West Side Story, Elf, 42nd Street, the new musical, Elf on the Shelf, along with several regional productions including Mary Poppins, Kinky Boots, and Newsies. Happiest of Holidays!

Jerquintez Alonzo Gipson

(Store Manager). B.F.A. from The University of Memphis, Musical Theatre and Minor in Dance. Credits: Emma A New Musical, Working the Musical, Trouble in Mind. Regional: Hairspray, Theatre Memphis; Jelly's Last Jam, Hatiloo Theatre; Bright Star, Murder on the Orient Express and Kinky Boots (Lola), Charleston Stages; The Color Purple, The Revival Theatre Production; Sister Act, Interlakes Theatre. He enjoys performing any chance he gets and loves to inspire others to never give up. Thank you to Carla (Mother) and Terriney (Sister) for everything. To see more of him: Instagram @Jxlonzo Tiktok @jaytotheque30

Jaxon James

( Michael Hobbs ) is thrilled to be touring with Elf this holiday season! Favorite credits: A Christmas Story (Swing, ensemble 2021 nat'l tour) Regional: Matilda (Bruce), A Christmas Story (Randy), Oliver (Oliver), Beauty and the Beast (Chip). Many thanks to The Wrightway (Rance Wright, Joe Barros , Alison Franck ), Slow Burn Theatre Company, Amy Tanner, RealDance, Stewart Whitley Casting, NETworks Production Company, Zoom Talent, CESD, and my family. Follow me on IG: @jaxonjamestheofficial

Caitlin Lester-Sams

(Emily) is so pleased to be back in Christmastown for a fourth time! Other National tours: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Mrs. Bucket), Flashdance the Musical (Ms. Wilde). Regional: Title of Show (Heidi), Legally Blonde (Brooke), Escape to Margaritaville (Rachel), Footloose (Vi Moore), Brigadoon (Meg), Great American Trailer Park Musical (Linoleum) and others. BFA from Western Michigan University. IG @unsophisticaitlin www.caitlinlestersams.com

Bobby Montaniz

(Mr. Greenway) is beyond excited to be making his touring debut with Elf! Regional: The 25th Annual...Spelling Bee, Seussical, A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder, Sunset Boulevard. This summer he sailed around Europe with Disney Cruise Line! Love to his incredible fiancé, Michael.

Nakiya Peterkin

(Deb) is thrilled to be playing Deb on this tour! Favorite roles include Chicago (Matron Mama Morton), National Tour; Avenue Q (Gary Coleman) and The Color Purple (Sofia). Most recent: Shrek (Dragon), Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre. Thankful to be back onstage with an amazing cast and for another opportunity to spread the joy of theatre.

Christopher Robert Smith

(Walter Hobbs), SAG/AFTRA, originally from Michigan has performed all over the US and Canada. Credits: Little Night Music (Carl Magnus), Legally Blonde (Prof Callahan), National tour Dirty Dancing (Dr. Houseman), JCSS (Pilate), Mamma Mia! (Bill Austin), Les Mis and Friends (Javert). TV: Big Bang Theory, Mad Men, Young and Restless, Ellen Show, Friends With Better Lives, and Property Bros. Chris has also been in many national commercials and has been on the cover and centerfold of Men's Health magazine. Would like to thank his family and Elf! Thanks and God Bless! IMDb: Christopher Robert Smith @chrissmithtraining

Tieisha Thomas

(Jovie). National tour debut! Black. Fem. Artist and Storyteller hailing from NYC. Off Broadway: Hercules (Melpomene), B-Boy Blues the Play (Michi), Chronicle X (Knowledge), Lost in the Disco (Angelina), Midnight Mugshot (Principal Gordon). Virtual: Wilmar (Ugbad /Hamdi), Getting There (Tanaysha). TV: NBC Peacock Kids, HULU, Showtime, Teaching While Black. Film: B-Boy Blues (BET+) , Unlocked, Istikhaara, New York, Help Yourself. "Your gifts will make room for YOU"- Hattie McDaniel IG: @officialtieishathomas

Shannon Conboy

(Ensemble). National tour debut! Favorite credits: Singin' in the Rain (Kathy Selden), Dames at Sea (Ruby), West Side Story (Velma), Head Over Heels, The Little Mermaid at The Gateway; Beauty and the Beast at The ZACH. SMU graduate! Thank you Stewart/Whitley, Hell's Kitchen Agency, and the creative team of Elf! Love to her supportive family and Jacob. IG: @shanconboy shannonconboy.com .

David Couter

(Ensemble). Favorite credits: Titus Andronicus (Lucius/Demetrius), Rose Playhouse London; Comfort (Peter), Lincoln Center; and Caddywhompus (Alex), Fringe NYC. He received a BFA in Theatre from the University of Memphis. For Kelly. Smile. Skip. Laugh. www.davidcouter.com

(Ensemble) is thrilled to join the company of Elf! Will recently understudied as Christian Bechdel in Paramount theater's Fun Home in Aurora, IL., and played Christopher Robbin in Winnie the Pooh at the Mercury Theater in Chicago, IL. He studies musical theater at Ovation Academy for the Performing Arts in Oak Park, IL. When he's not on stage, he's hanging out with his friends, playing baseball, basketball or soccer, or drawing in one of his many sketchbooks. He'd like to thank his agents at DDO Chicago and his Ovation family for their love and support!

Jo Davis (Swing, Dance Captain). National tour: Peter Pan starring Cathy Rigby (Michael Darling). Regional: Mamma Mia! (Lisa, Dance Captain), Smokey Joe's Café (DeLee), Legally Blonde (Margot), ...Spelling Bee (Logainne), A Chorus Line. BFA in Musical Theatre Dance: CCPA. Instagram: @thejodavis_

Nico DiPrimio

(Ensemble) is so excited to be joining Elf this year! A graduate of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NYC. National tours: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Jimmy Buffett 's Escape to Margaritaville, A Charlie Brown Christmas Live. Regional: The Little Mermaid, Gateway Playhouse; Mamma Mia!, Ivoryton Playhouse; Guys and Dolls, ABT. Off-Broadway: My Princess Diana. He would like to thank his family, UIA Talent Agency & JHA Management. Enjoy the show! @nicoo_d

Justin Glass

(Ensemble) is so thrilled to be back on the road with Elf The Musical! National tour: Waitress. NYC: Bright & Brave, a new musical (Elliot), Dixon Place. Regional: Newsies (Davey), Grease (Roger), The Fantasticks (Matt), Spamalot (Sir Robin), Into the Woods (Baker) Floyd Collins (Homer, dir. Adam Guettel ). A proud Boston Conservatory graduate! Many thanks to Stewart/Whitley and the Elf team for believing in me. Love to my family, friends, and Mom who have always supported me. @justin_glass

Evan Hussey

(Ensemble). National tour debut! Regional: A Chorus Line, City Springs Theatre & Gallery Players; Elf, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina; La Cage Aux Folles and Mamma Mia, Little Theatre On The Square. Graduate of Marymount Manhattan Musical Theatre. Endless thanks to Mom, Dad, Stewart/Whitley, and Brian at Hell's Kitchen Agency. @evanhussey

(Ensemble) (he/him) is thrilled to be making his national tour debut with Elf! Favorite credits include Kinky Boots (Angel Swing), The Engeman Theatre; Newsies (Elmer), Westchester Broadway Theatre; and Crazy For You (Sam/Cowboy Trio), The Sharon Playhouse. Thanks to his family and friends for all their love support! For Grandma and Lauren <3 IG: @tj_kubler

Juliana Lamia

(Ensemble). National tour debut! Favorite credits: Pippin (Catherine), A Chorus Line (Diana), Aida (Ensemble, u/s Amneris). Proud alum of Texas State University's BFA Musical Theatre program. Special thanks to Stewart/Whitley, ATB, and the creative team of Elf! Much love to Mom, Dad, Nick, family, and friends. Happy Holidays! @julianalamia. www.julianalamia.com

Ryan Mulvaney

(Ensemble). National tour debut! Recent International/Regional: Footloose (Travis), Norwegian Cruise Lines; Elements, Norwegian Cruise Lines; A Chorus Line (Bobby), Laguna Playhouse; West Side Story (Big Deal); ShBoom (Denny), Surflight. BFA - CAP21/Molloy University. Sending all his love to dad, mom, Dori, & Piper. @r_mulvaney

Daniel Pahl

(Swing, Assistant Dance Captain) is thrilled to be joining the Elf family! National tour: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Mr. Bucket). Regional: Newsies (Elmer), Jerome Robbins ' Broadway (Motel), Joseph and the...Dreamcoat (Dan), Beauty and the Beast (Ensemble). NY Dance: Broadway Dance Lab, Trainor Dance, and Steps Repertory Ensemble. Columbia University graduate. Thanks to Stewart/Whitley and the entire Elf team! All the love to Mom, Dad, Matt, Joe, Kira, and Lila-Rose! @dpahl10

Emily Ann Stys

(Ensemble). National tour debut! Favorite credits: Rock of Ages (Waitress 1), Saturday Night Fever (Stephanie), An American in Paris, West Side Story, and Beauty and the Beast (Disney Dream. opening cast). Oakland University. Special thanks to Stewart/Whitley, Hell's Kitchen agency, and the creative team of Elf! Much love to The Stys fam and Justin! IG: @eastys

Emilee Theno

(Ensemble). Thrilled to be spreading Christmas cheer! National tour: Summer: The Donna Summer Musical. Off-Broadway: No Strings. Regional Theatre: A Chorus Line (New London Barn Playhouse). B.A. from Loyola Marymount University. Endless gratitude to the Elf creative team for this opportunity. All my love to mom, dad, and Austin! www.emileetheno.com | @emileetheno

Nicole Zelka

(Ensemble). "But the children love the books!" National tour: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Ensemble, u/s Mrs. Teavee, u/s Mrs. Gloop), Rodger & Hammerstein's Cinderella (Gabrielle, u/s Marie). Thank you to the entire Elf team and NETworks family! Love to LDC Artists and momager, Nate Patten . For my family always! @nicolezelka / nicolezelka.com

Cait Zuckerman

(Ensemble) . National tour debut! Most recent credit: The Little Mermaid (Ursula), Gateway Playhouse. Other credits: A Chorus Line (Val), Weathervane Theater; Wedding Singer (Holly), Mamma Mia (Lisa), Clearspace Theater; and Elf (Ensemble), Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Thanks to the creative team for giving this fantastic opportunity, and a big thanks to mom, dad, Tommy, and toots.

Photo Credit: Joan Marcus

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