Elf the Musical

After a miserable week weather wise, I was in need of some Christmas cheer, and that is exactly what LMTC served up in abundance with their latest offering, Elf, the musical. I must say, to walk up to the theatre and see the ‘Sold Out’ sign, warms the heart, especially in these testing times for many people. 

For me, Christmas can now officially start, as I’ve seen the LMTC November production and heard Mariah, again thanks to the LMTC, as Christmas music was playing in the auditorium prior to the start of the production and got everyone in the mood for the story of Buddy the Elf. 

Director, Cev Barker had obviously put in a lot of work into his production as every detail had been thought out. The lights of green and red on the house curtains as we entered, were a very nice touch. Pete Lane, Musical Director, managed to get a great sound and some lovely harmonies from the ensemble and principals. Where would an LMTC production be without the genius choreography from Dani Sampson. You can always count on Dani to create, original and dazzling routines for this talented company. I must mention the dancing talents of Maggie McGuinness who was captivating every time she appeared.

David Cooper, fresh from his performance as Peron in Evita, showed as again what a versatile actor he is in his role of Walter Hobbs, Buddy’s Father who is on the naughty list (gasp). David played the role with just the right amount of dismissiveness toward Buddy, that you actually felt sorry for the over worked father. Nicola Long played Walter’s long suffering wife Emily, and worked well with David and displayed fine vocals. The LMTC’s newest star, Ben McNally, played Michael Hobbs and held is own amongst this cast full of experienced adults. I can’t wait to see what this young man does next. 

Lisa Kendall, put in an excellent turn as Debs, the secretary. Her performance was a comedy masterclass, and said what I have wanted to say to a certain weight loss company for sometime. Dan Wilkinson, shared his fine vocal talent with us as the Manager of Macy’s department store. Dan is a truly wonderful performer who always gives it 100%. Joe Boswell was very impressive as the villain of the piece, Mr Greenway. Just enough nastiness, without becoming panto, and yet again treated us to a wonderful vocal performance. The ensemble in this production was very good, with a  special shout out to Tamsin Kendall and Lee Caddick as the Elf’s in Santa's workshop who maybe need the number for Relate! 

Ruth Lockwood, as Jovie, looked stunning and gave a great performance as Buddy’s eventual wife. The journwy which Jovie goes on from the Christmas grinch, to believing in the miracle that is Christmas. 

However, the standout here, is the wonderful James Preston as Buddy. From his first entrance to his final exit, his energy is infectious, his characterisation on point and vocal talent that would not be out of place in the west end! An exceptional performance. 

As always with the LMTC, your hospitality is second to none. John and I had a sparklejollytwicklejingley time. Here’s to Legally Blonde. Snaps.  

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