Elf the Musical

Bradford Catholic Players – Elf the Musical

A pre festive outing to Bradford Catholics production of “Elf the Musical” brought a perfect dose of Christmas spirit, with a joyful finale involving snow that delighted an audience of all ages. The director and choreographer Megan Elsegood did a fantastic job of staging the show featuring big, high-energy song-and-dance numbers, including tap dancing. My most favourite scene, as there were many, had to be the opening with the Elves. Well done Megan on creating such a superb number and congratulations to all on their knees on its execution.  

Congratulations to Musical Director Anthony Martin given the strong vocal quality on stage and the superb work of the band off stage had done a fine job before and during performances.

Lead actor, Alex Wright, playing Buddy the Elf, whose infectious charm and comedic timing showed immense energy throughout the show, with a strong singing voice, and ability to capture Buddy's lovable naivety and charm who was hardly off stage played the role as if it had been written for him.

Jovie played by Eliza Carroll gave us the “tough around the edges” character with a sharp wit. She had a strong comedic timing and a powerful voice giving the audience a wonderful solo “Never fall in love with an Elf”, another favourite. Both her and Alex gave the audience some wonderful scenes of their romantic connection growing through a series of dates (ice skating, coffee) and shared moments where Buddy's simple joy helps her find her faith in the season again.

Buddy’s family Walter Hobbs played by Mick Duckworth giving a strong, authoritative presence but also a credible "softer side" for the transformation, Emily Hobbs played by Bethany Brewer, brought a warmth and resilience to the role. Emily's scenes and duets with Michael, played by Jacob Troake were one of the many highlights providing the emotional "heart" of the show, especially the song "There Is a Santa Claus" Jacob Troake brought the character of Michael Hobbs to life, a smarter-than-average, slightly cynical 12-year-old who, unlike his father, quickly embraces Buddy and his belief in Christmas magic. He had an excellent singing voice and acting ability.

Other supporting cast members in the show must also receive praise for their performances as each one of them were superb in bringing their character to the story especially in roles like the Deb, played by Alison Smith, Walter Hobbs unconventional secretary, Greenway played by Terence Stamp, and Abe Brown playing the Manager. Chadwick played by Nathan Hurtault and Matthews played by Matthew Leakey who played the comedic duo, working well together as "character actors" driving the action of the office scenes. Topping and tailing the show was Santa played by Simon Carroll and Mrs Claus played by Sarah Huby who did a wonderful job of making the audience settle in and have that “Christmas Hot Chocolate” feeling.

The set was wonderfully designed with use of projection alongside minimalistic scenery allowing for set changes to be quick and not disrupt the pace of the show. Lighting was very festive, greens and reds and even snow which made the audience gasp. The sound quality was excellent with a good balance. Excellent work by the backstage team.

Bradford Catholics and the whole cast did a great job of working together to give the audience a perfect dose of Christmas. The show was simply stunning!

Well Done to everyone.

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