16th May 2025
H.M.S. Pinafore
Clevedon G & S Society, Prince’s Hall, Clevedon, Somerset
Elf Jr The Musical
Author: Jo Wilson-Hunt for Lewis White
Information
- Date
- 9th December 2022
- Society
- Clevedon Light Opera Club
- Venue
- The Princes Hall, Clevedon
- Type of Production
- Musical
- Director
- Alex Coghlan-Forbes
- Musical Director
- Sue Parker
- Choreographer
- Emma Flaherty
- Producer
- Alex Coghlan-Forbes
On a crisp evening just before Christmas when all the houses are twinkling with pretty trees what’s more perfect than visiting the theatre to see a magical show. Elf Jr the musical is based on the movie, a bundle of schmaltz that we settle to watch over the festive season, and the musical is only an hour in length; but with catchy tunes, heart-warming characters and talented youngsters what more could you ask for.
The pre-set gave us a glimpse of what was in store with the side flat parcels shimmering with pretty bows and the North Pole and Santa’s world set for all to see. Greeted by the happy beautifully attired elves we were transported to a festive and happy place and a smile never left mine or my companions face from start to finish.
Casting was perfect and totally believable even though the cast are very young, Walter, Emily and Rachel were a believable family, dysfunctional due to Walters overpowering work ethic that slowly melt into a happy loving 4 when the zany Buddy drops into their lives making their home complete. The unhappy Jovie was thoroughly bowled over by her hero in tights (Buddy),I especially enjoyed her rendition of Never Fall In Love (With an Elf). It was difficult to believe these youngsters could carry such complex dynamic stories in such a small amount of time but they did with total sincerity. In fact no aspect was too fantastical to believe …….An now what about THE actual Elf in question Buddy. This young man has infectious stage presence, he has an understanding of presentation far beyond his years, but, he doesn’t dominate or overshadow,an excellent gift to have. He sang, danced and messed up his ‘Dads’ perfect world with a twinklejingle of a moment, and captured the heart of the love of his life,a total pleasure to watch.The ensemble also gave the production there all and their smiles will stay with me for a long time.
CLOC’s production and creative team deserve an applause of their own, they created a perfect Christmas parcel of fun. Congratulations it was a totally magical evening Thank You.
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