Elf The Musical

ELF The Musical is based on the film of the same name and tells the story of Buddy who, as a baby, crawled into Santa’s sack, was taken to the North Pole and raised with the elves.    But, as time passes, he realises he doesn’t fit in. Santa explains his origins and that he is human and so Buddy sets off to New York to meet his dad.   This story promises a lot and delivers much more.

The stage was bare and scenery was provided via projection.  This gave the production a cinematic feel as the action moved swiftly between the North Pole to Manhattan and various other locations such as Walter’s office, his apartment and Macy’s department store.  Physical pieces were added where necessary, such as office furniture and the Christmas tree Jovie was decorating, and the trolley for ‘World’s Best Souvlaki’.  Santa’s sleigh was incredible in size and structure adding extra sparkle to the climax of the show.  The use of gift boxes brought on and then turned round to read the message “Merry Christmas” was truly inspired! 

The costumes were amazing – lots of green and red, the elves’ costumes, Santa’s high quality traditional red suit with polished buckle and fancy trim as well as a collection of Santa outfits for the bar scene.    Buddy’s elf suit was in keeping with the story and Jovie’s finale dress was very pretty.    There was good attention to detail with lots of quick changes, office attire and a couple of police uniforms.

The lighting was effective throughout and well controlled. The special effects were brilliant.   I particularly enjoyed the effect of Elf travelling on the ice-berg from the North Pole down to Manhattan.   

This joyful production was engaging and entertaining from start to finish.   David Maclaren, in the title role, completely embodied the absolute joy and innocence of Buddy and he was on top form, tuneful, energetic and full of enthusiasm.    He was well supported by a talented cast of seasoned performers as well as some younger and newer players.     There were so many highlights but for me, one of the funniest was the ice-skating scene where Buddy and Jovie talk but behind them we saw ‘skaters’ of varying levels of ability skating past.  This was totally believable and very funny as was the scene where the highly prized book ends up in the shredder.   It was predictable but so funny when it eventually happened!     Every single member of the cast was involved in their character from the elves in the workshop, the office workers and the Hobbs family.   

It was obvious from the level of professionalism that the performers had great support from the creative and backstage/technical team.    This was an excellent production on all levels and the audience left smiling and looking forward to the next ODS show – I know I am!

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