Elf is one of our favourite films, but does the company live up to its promise of New and Exciting Theatre?
Elf tells the tale of a baby raised as…you guessed it…a North Pole elf. He eventually realises he’s human and sets off to find his birth father in New York. Hijinks ensue as Buddy adjusts to city life, falls in love with a colleague and tries to restore Christmas spirit.
The shows opens on a familiar festive figure. Stephen Tearle embodies the Christmas spirit of jolly old St Nick, and a Santa meet-and-greet in the interval is a lovely touch. Tearle’s Santa is warm and engaging, and resplendent in beautiful robes, realistic beard and wig. Any grotto worth their salt (or sugar, an elf’s favourite!) would be glad to have him.
I’m a Santa snob – it’s so easy to get the big guy wrong and ruin the magic – but here it’s so very right. Stephen is also Creative Director, Chairman and Costume Designer for the company, and his attention to detail shines.
Finlay Butler’s Buddy has some big (pointy) shoes to fill, with so many people knowing Will Ferrell’s 2003 role so well. His entrance on a skateboard is an early indication of his playful, youthful demeanour.
I actually preferred this portrayal to clips of Buddy I’ve seen of some of the professional touring productions of Elf. Some Buddys don’t capture the childlike innocence and wonder, and play him more tongue in cheek, which really misses the point. Butler’s Buddy though hits the sweet spot, and he’s careful not to parody Ferrell’s performance.
Love interest Jovie (Maia Stroud) is more surly that her film counterpart, but transitions well into the lighter side when she finds the Christmas magic. A good singer too, particularly during Never Fall in Love (With an Elf)
Perri Ann Barley as mum (or ‘mom’ here , to suit the setting!) Emily Hobbs is a delight. She maintains a convincing American accent, and sings well throughout – especially in duet I’ll Believe in You.
James O’ Neill as Walter Hobbs has a great story arc; first appearing as a workaholic before realising the important of putting family first. O’ Neill demonstrates this well, and we’re eager to see him soften and get off that naughty list! Son Michael (Zachary Stoney in our performance) is well cast and confident in front of this full house. He could go far.
Scatty secretary Deb (Ali Butler-Hind) reminds this reviewer of Alice Tinker from The Vicar of Dibley, with a ditzy energy and zany costume to match.
The huge ensemble of children really give it their all, the enthusiasm is infectious and they are clearly having bags (or Santa sacks?) of fun! The adults too are all keen and committed to delivering festive fun.
The set is largely projected. In previous reviews we’ve commented on over-use of projection – in pricey professional productions we sometimes expect more set for the spend. However, here it works wonderfully well, and is an effective way to flit between New York and The North Pole. Extra set elements add depth, with fairy lights galore, a glittering sleigh and a stunning Christmas tree.
A live band is a treat for a small production, where others might rely on backing tracks. This is no fault of the company, but quite a few of the songs are forgettable in Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin’s score. There’s only a few you might come away singing but the cast deliver them all with boundless energy and enthusiasm nonetheless.
Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan’s script is very American too, with gags about particular States and franchises like Taco Bell that don’t always hit with this Yorkshire crowd. Perhaps a few local updates a la panto? Licensing rules may prevent making changes though.
The Joseph Rowntree Theatre is ideal for Elf. Even from the back of the stalls we had a perfect view in this cosy, community space. We all know how expensive Christmas is, and pantos and touring shows can cost a pretty penny. NE Theatre are budget-friendly, plus you’re supporting local arts and helping good causes (don’t forget your raffle tickets and programmes!)
NE Theatre has a real emphasis on giving people a chance and in really looking after their team. There’s a sense of family, and in everyone have a great time together. Whilst technically an amateur production, there’s plenty of talent here and the show made me smile (and to quote Buddy – smiling’s my favourite!)
I’d suggest booking a ticket but, true to form, NE Theatre have sold out yet another run – a testament to the company’s hard work and loyal following.
Been a Cotton-headed Ninimuggins and forgot to book? Call 01904 501935 in case of cancellations, and be sure to catch their other shows including Carousel and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in 2025.
Find out more at https://www.facebook.com/NMusicals/
Not a show to snooze on…
Disclaimer: Tickets were kindly provided for this performance, however all opinions are honest and are our own.
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