Elf, The Musical

Based on the Christmas “classic” film, Elf basically tells the tale of Buddy the Elf , who actually happens to be human, raised by elves. Upon discovering he isn’t an elf, Buddy says goodbye to the North Pole in search of his roots. So, how does the story translate from big screen to stage?  The one thing I’ll say before I start, is that prior to seeing this, I’d never seen the whole film all the way through.... whether this says something about me, or it says something about the film, I’ll let you decide.

The story begins with Santa (Steve Johnson) telling us the story of Buddy and how his journey pans out - how he’s just not cut out to be an Elf (or at least a toymaking elf), his travels to New York where he falls in love with Jovi, meets his father, his father’s wife and their son - Walter, Emily and Michael Hobbs.

Steve's Santa was warm, unassuming and inviting, drawing us into the story from the start, though Steve’s beard (from Beards R Us, I assume) seemed to cause him a few issues throughout the show- you could tell it wasn’t real - often changing position about his face. Enough about the beard though - it could actually have its own show.

The main role of Buddy was undertaken by James Shields. Those who’ve seen James know exactly what they’re going to get with him - great singing and an honest, solid performance - once again, James delivered in spades. Buddy is the driving force of the show and James took it all in his stride, with his tireless energy and enthusiasm, singing and just the right level of childish bewilderment, Buddy was in capable hands with James.

Once in New York we meet Jovie, Buddy’s love interest, and Buddy's long lost dad and Santa skeptic, Walter Hobbs.The night I saw the production, the role of Jovie was played by Ashleigh Hartin. Ashleigh once again showing her versatility in being able to command any role she undertakes - from the sassiness of a girl who is pretty streetwise, to the vulnerable girl who just feels like she’s fallen in love with the wrong guy/elf (again) - as per, diction perfect and singing beautifully throughout.

James and Ashleigh worked well together, though I did think that the love story “arc” between them both was lacking - but I must say that I think this was more down to the writing/storytelling than the performers.  

Walter Hobbs is weighed down under the pressure of being a hard nosed, high powered businessman - a performance Chris Isherwood took easily in his stride. Chris was more than capably supported by Ceri Hamer as his wife (and Buddy’s step- mom to be) and Michael, their son, played by (on the night I saw it) Charlie Dingle. The roles for all three  were well suited. There were some warm, tender moments throughout- especially in the song “I’ll believe in you”- Charlie will definitely be one to watch out for..

One of the things that came across throughout the whole production, was how much fun everyone was having, whatever the role- including Deb (Hobb’s Secretary), The Manager and Miss Greenway (Walter’s Boss) – played with conviction by Kerry Hartin, Andrew Thompson and Rebekah Dallas.

Chorus-wise, everyone was well drilled in both singing, dancing and ad-libbing about Cheese. Whether it was on knees, in chairs or stomping around New York, the enthusiasm came across well and every song was clear and understood- my favourite number from the show, “Nobody Cares About Santa” was delivered with cynicism and gusto.

I’d like to say that staging was simple, and effective- but that does it an injustice really. I’m not particularly a lover of LED screen use- but this was a case of an LED screen used well, and for the necessary set pieces. Generally scenes were props (some large) set in front of the screen depicting different settings. Where the screen did come into its own was the “Santa flying past the window” scene (without an LED screen, this could have been cumbersome), and the tree outside the Rockefeller, giving a true idea of scale.

As ever with Holly Brown as choreographer, the company were worked hard and well drilled, pushing the cast enough for some to be out of their comfort zone, but not too much to make anyone look out of place.

The orchestra was excellent under Musical Director, Anna Eddowes-Scott’s baton. According to the programme, Anna has a relaxed and firm approach- under Anna’s hands, this obviously rubbed off on the company, as all numbers sounded well rehearsed and polished.

Suzanne Ward as Producer, must be really pleased with her cast and crew for this production- it must have been incredibly difficult to put this production together- not only with not knowing if it would go ahead, whether she’d actually have the people to perform it.

As a footnote- on alternate nights, the roles of Jovie and Michael were played by Sophie Jade Butler and Ethan Shimwell. According to all sources, their performances were accomplished and confident -  these two must be cut from the same cloth as Ashleigh and Charlie.

Thnk you, LADOS, for your hospitality and invite.

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