Take one clever, funny and moderately successful movie, add an experienced and talented cast, stir in some holiday cheer and you have a delightful little family holiday experience.
Elf tells the tale of Buddy the Elf, who’s not really an elf, but a human who accidentally crawled into Santa’s bag as an infant. Buddy must travel to New York City to find his dad and as they say…hijinks ensue. As much as the play is Buddy’s tale of growth and development, it is also the tale of Buddy’s dad, Walter Hobbs, who must overcome his scroogian demeanor and find the true meaning of Christmas, or family…or both.
The cast was solid and professional. It seems like the producers did not mess around and take risks, they picked experienced Broadway (& Off Broadway) talent and it showed. Jordan Gelber plays Buddy, his job is to make you stop comparing him to Will Farrell from the movie, and he does make Buddy his own. He is innocent and bumbling in a sweet way. Leslie Kritzer plays Jovie, Buddy’s “love interest”, she does sweet better than bitchy and she belts out “Never Fall in Love with an Elf”. Valerie Wright stands out as “Deb” Walter’s secretary, and young Michael Sink as “Michael” Walter’s son and Buddy’s half brother makes it look easy, even though he’s not old enough to drive.
The story has plenty of holiday songs and cheer to make you feel like you’ve seen a Christmas show, without being overly preachy. It’s a story of family, acceptance and learning that it’s never too late to change. If you are in the mood for an enjoyable family romp this Holiday season, take the family and see Elf, who knows, it might become a tradition. For tickets and more information visit ElftheMusical.com
