Elf the Musical

Elf The Musical is a delightful production that brings a touch of Christmas magic to the stage, even in late Autumn. From the moment the overture began, the audience was transported into a world of Christmas cheer.

The story begins in the North Pole with a twinkly eyed Santa Claus (Darren Rhodes) narrating the story of Buddy the Elf.  We quickly move to a colourful rainbow of smiling elves dancing and singing about being ‘Happy all the Time’. This scene in particular set the standard for costuming in this show – a riot of colour and appropriate elven styles! The set was simply a video wall, displaying appropriate scenic images. In my view, the addition of two or three false prosc’s would have added tremendously to the stage setting, filling in the large amount of open space downstage. Props, however, were in abundance and, very often in multiple quantities, for example, the lovely inflatable candy canes in “Sparklejollytwinklejingley”! Credit must go to Props Supervisors Julie McAndrew and Jo McConville for the competent sourcing and show-handling of the myriad of unusual props. Whilst on matters technical, lighting design by Kieran Hotchkiss was excellent, offering just the right amount of flashy, waggly effects whilst, at the same time, always allowing us to see the characters.

The role of Buddy was played to an exceptionally high standard by Tony Livingston – instantly becoming a favourite with the children (and the adults!) in the audience. Tony’s energy both in singing and movement was quite exhausting to watch. Ann-Marie Miller was a wonderful Jovie. Her portrayal of the Christmas hating leading lady was first class and displayed many emotions, particularly in the number, “Never Fall In Love”. 

Charlie Sinclair once again showed what an experienced performer he is with his interpretation of Buddy’s Dad, Walter Hobbs. From disbelief that he has fathered an ‘Elf’ to growing to love Buddy was a joy to watch, even after Buddy, in an attempt to make snow, inadvertently shredded the only copy of Hobbs’ vital script! Lorraine Tufft played Walter’s long-suffering wife, Emily, and her duets with Michael, superbly played by Ewan Maguire, were a delight to the ear. One of the sad things about double casting is I only get to see one of the casts, but I have no doubt that the alternating Michael Hobbs, played by Findlay Spence, would have reached the same high standards of performance as was seen from Ewan tonight!

As Mr Hobbs’ secretary, Fiona Brodie’s wonderful stage presence brought every ounce of humour into the part – particularly appreciated by the full house tonight (capacity houses replicated, by the way, for every performance this week!). Clark Graham as Mr Greenway the cranky “big boss” of the Company comes on stage demanding things are done his way, now! No one knows better than him - Clark showed this with a commanding stage presence.

Minor principal cameo roles were well handled by the cast and all added in no small way to the success of tonight’s production.

Direction by Carol Sinclair and Musical Direction by new MD, Sam Howley, were both creative in their own way, making sure that although not strictly billed as a children’s show, there was enough life and colour in the production to make sure that attention by the younger audience members did not lapse. Lorna Lewis’ choreography was a joy to behold. So many styles were included from traditional to tap – plus dancing a whole scene on their knees!

Well done KAOS for choosing and presenting another excellent show!

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