Elf the Musical Jr.

The Charming Theatre Company prides itself (and rightly so) on letting everyone take part in their productions. This meant that Elf the Musical Jr. had two principal casts and so it felt appropriate to watch both performances. I was so glad that I did.

Firstly, I need to confess that I had never seen Elf the movie and therefore didn’t know the story at all. It was a revelation! I absolutely loved it and was more than happy to watch it twice.

It truly felt like experiencing two different productions. Although the storyline remained the same, Team Tinsel and the Senior Team interpreted their roles with distinct differences. Team Tinsel injected a lively sense of humour into their performances, keeping the audience amused throughout, while the Senior Team concentrated more on the dramatic moments, bringing out the emotional depth of the characters. This contrast in approach made watching both performances especially engaging and highlighted the unique qualities each team brought to the show. The cast exuded a confidence that belied their ages, and the talent was in abundance. The songs were beautiful and excellently executed. Both Buddy’s (Molly and Lyla) gave bubbly and perfect characterisations of the confused but undeterred Elf and there were lots of oohs and aahs for their performances. Their songs were well sung and faultless.

The Walter’s (Erin and Lilli-ann) were very different but extremely well cast as they both had the right mannerisms and delivery. The pairs playing Emily (Sophie and Isla) and Micheal (Harriet and Carla) gave equally beautifully renditions of ‘I’ll Believe in him’ and brought a tear to my eye. And although Isla gave a more mature performance, Sophie did very well. The audience who watched a performance on Saturday said that Koen (who played a third Micheal) had an excellent singing voice.

Lois and Charlotte portrayed Jovie beautifully and delivered outstanding solo performances, especially in 'Never Fall in Love with an Elf,' which was filled with genuine emotion.

The Santa’s (Isabelle and Caitlin) were brilliant and engaged well with the audiences. And the Charlie’s (Tobias and Zoe) were both very good. The supporting cast of Seniors—Willow, Freya, Zoe, Lucy, Maisie, Sophia, Jo, and Tobias—delivered commendable performances that contributed positively to the overall quality of the production.

However, it was the 48 young cast members who truly made this production successful; each had numerous responsibilities and fully embraced their assigned roles.  The smaller members (and I mean small) were captivating and so well-rehearsed that there wasn’t a gap or unexpected pause with their entrances or actions, other than the united gasps from the audience, when the tiny ones came on as elves. They were adorable and so good.

The set design was simple yet highly effective, with props being moved quietly to avoid distraction. The projected graphics were impressive, and the Christmas scenes effectively created the right atmosphere. The music was well balanced and complemented the cast without overpowering them, making it enjoyable for everyone. It was evident that the performers enjoyed singing their songs, and the audience had a chance to join in at the end, which added to the fun.

A bonus was Nicola’s School of Dance senior dancers who opened the show with a performance to ‘Baby it’s cold outside’, setting the Christmas mood. It was a beautiful start to the performances.  It was a wonderful start to Christmas and a lovely way to spend a wet and windy Sunday afternoon. Thank you all.

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