REVIEW
Little Theatre Company
presents
ELF THE MUSICAL
Palace Theatre, Westcliff on Sea
Wed 3rd December 2025 - Sat 6th December 2025
Little Theatre Company
presents
ELF THE MUSICAL
Palace Theatre, Westcliff on Sea
Wed 3rd December 2025 - Sat 6th December 2025
A festive treat from start to finish!
Little Theatre Company kicked off the festive season in sparkling style last night as Elf the Musical opened to a sold out Palace Theatre crowd. Families and theatregoers excitedly filled the auditorium, with many sporting their best Christmas jumpers, creating a lovely festive buzz before the show even started.
For anyone new to the musical, Elf follows Buddy, a human who is accidentally raised as an elf at the North Pole after crawling into Santa's sack of toys as a baby. When he discovers the truth, he embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father and attempt to bring Christmas cheer to a world that’s running dangerously low on festive spirit. Director Julian Cottee (assisted by Ami Roberts) made it clear from the get go that he wanted this production to stay as faithful to the much loved Will Ferrell film as possible – and that vision is absolutely delivered from start to finish. From the comedic timing to the heartfelt moments, the show manages to capture the film’s charm whilst still embracing all the colour and theatrical magic of the stage.
The costumes and set are quite fabulous, transporting us from Santa’s candy-cane workshop in the North Pole to the bustling streets of Manhattan with ease. The choreography, bright and energetic, from Paige Williamson, is especially impressive given that at times all 34 cast members are on the Palace Theatre stage – no easy feat in itself; also the cleverly added choreography and music which covered a few of the longer scene changes was an innovative touch. Every performer brings something special, some doubling up in roles, and the large ensemble numbers burst with festive fun. From Happy All the Time at the top of the show to The Nobody Cares About Santa and A Christmas Song, at the end, every number was filled with enthusiastic energy and one number is even performed wearing rollerblades! A brave choice considering the rake on that Palace Theatre stage.
Of course, the heart of the story of Elf lies with Buddy, and John Staines in this iconic role delivers a truly joyous and watchable performance. This is a role he appears destined to play. His wide-eyed innocence, boundless energy and infectious joy had me and, I’m sure, the entire audience beaming – you simply couldn’t help but smile watching his performance. Staines is rarely off stage and carries this production with ease, giving a performance which is both hilarious, endearing and heartfelt. Katie Russo gives some lovely attitude as Buddy’s love interest, Jovie, and shows off some lovely vocals belting out Never Fall in Love (With an Elf).
Tim Cater brings humour and gentle pathos to the role of Buddy’s dad, Walter Hobbs, striking just the right balance between exasperation and emotional growth. Laura Louis as his long suffering wife, Emily works well opposite him, not least with some lovely sarcastic asides and also displays some nice vocals.
I also enjoyed Lee Keremezo’s performance as the Store Manager who provided some great characterisation and humour in this role.
A special mention to Alex and Max who play Michael Hobbs and The Boy respectively with some fine acting skills.
Musically, the show shines. Most of the songs are catchy, upbeat and delivered with real gusto by the ensemble and leading cast members.
Under the musical direction of Alex Wood, the band sounds fantastic, keeping the pace lively and the Christmas spirit flowing throughout.
From the opening moments right through to the final bow, the energy from the company in this production is infectious. With Christmas just around the corner, Little Theatre Company's Elf the Musical is a perfectly timed magical seasonal treat and is sure to be a huge success for the rest of the run. Tickets are already flying out of the box office faster than Santa’s sleigh.
If smiling’s your favourite don’t be a cotton-headed ninny muggins, grab your tickets now!
Review: Kim Tobin
For anyone new to the musical, Elf follows Buddy, a human who is accidentally raised as an elf at the North Pole after crawling into Santa's sack of toys as a baby. When he discovers the truth, he embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father and attempt to bring Christmas cheer to a world that’s running dangerously low on festive spirit. Director Julian Cottee (assisted by Ami Roberts) made it clear from the get go that he wanted this production to stay as faithful to the much loved Will Ferrell film as possible – and that vision is absolutely delivered from start to finish. From the comedic timing to the heartfelt moments, the show manages to capture the film’s charm whilst still embracing all the colour and theatrical magic of the stage.
The costumes and set are quite fabulous, transporting us from Santa’s candy-cane workshop in the North Pole to the bustling streets of Manhattan with ease. The choreography, bright and energetic, from Paige Williamson, is especially impressive given that at times all 34 cast members are on the Palace Theatre stage – no easy feat in itself; also the cleverly added choreography and music which covered a few of the longer scene changes was an innovative touch. Every performer brings something special, some doubling up in roles, and the large ensemble numbers burst with festive fun. From Happy All the Time at the top of the show to The Nobody Cares About Santa and A Christmas Song, at the end, every number was filled with enthusiastic energy and one number is even performed wearing rollerblades! A brave choice considering the rake on that Palace Theatre stage.
Of course, the heart of the story of Elf lies with Buddy, and John Staines in this iconic role delivers a truly joyous and watchable performance. This is a role he appears destined to play. His wide-eyed innocence, boundless energy and infectious joy had me and, I’m sure, the entire audience beaming – you simply couldn’t help but smile watching his performance. Staines is rarely off stage and carries this production with ease, giving a performance which is both hilarious, endearing and heartfelt. Katie Russo gives some lovely attitude as Buddy’s love interest, Jovie, and shows off some lovely vocals belting out Never Fall in Love (With an Elf).
Tim Cater brings humour and gentle pathos to the role of Buddy’s dad, Walter Hobbs, striking just the right balance between exasperation and emotional growth. Laura Louis as his long suffering wife, Emily works well opposite him, not least with some lovely sarcastic asides and also displays some nice vocals.
I also enjoyed Lee Keremezo’s performance as the Store Manager who provided some great characterisation and humour in this role.
A special mention to Alex and Max who play Michael Hobbs and The Boy respectively with some fine acting skills.
Musically, the show shines. Most of the songs are catchy, upbeat and delivered with real gusto by the ensemble and leading cast members.
Under the musical direction of Alex Wood, the band sounds fantastic, keeping the pace lively and the Christmas spirit flowing throughout.
From the opening moments right through to the final bow, the energy from the company in this production is infectious. With Christmas just around the corner, Little Theatre Company's Elf the Musical is a perfectly timed magical seasonal treat and is sure to be a huge success for the rest of the run. Tickets are already flying out of the box office faster than Santa’s sleigh.
If smiling’s your favourite don’t be a cotton-headed ninny muggins, grab your tickets now!
Review: Kim Tobin
Elf The Musical is coming to Southend this December - just in time to spread some Christmas cheer!
Based on the beloved film, this heartwarming and family-friendly stage spectacular follows Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, as he sets off on a journey to New York City to find his real father and help the world rediscover the true meaning of Christmas.
Bursting with catchy songs, dazzling dance numbers, and laugh-out-loud moments, Elf The Musical is a festive treat for all ages. From vibrant costumes to Santa’s sleigh soaring across the stage, this magical production delivers Christmas joy in every scene.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to Buddy’s adventure, this is one festive celebration you won’t want to miss. Catch the magic live in Southend this December - book your tickets now!
Based on the beloved film, this heartwarming and family-friendly stage spectacular follows Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, as he sets off on a journey to New York City to find his real father and help the world rediscover the true meaning of Christmas.
Bursting with catchy songs, dazzling dance numbers, and laugh-out-loud moments, Elf The Musical is a festive treat for all ages. From vibrant costumes to Santa’s sleigh soaring across the stage, this magical production delivers Christmas joy in every scene.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to Buddy’s adventure, this is one festive celebration you won’t want to miss. Catch the magic live in Southend this December - book your tickets now!
The performance on Thursday 4th December at 2.30pm will be a relaxed performance
The Thursday 4th December Matinee and Evening Performances will be a signed performance
The Thursday 4th December Matinee and Evening Performances will be a signed performance
CURTAIN CALL
with John Staines and Katie Russo who play the roles of Buddy and Jovie in
Elf the Musical plus Director, Julian Cottee
with John Staines and Katie Russo who play the roles of Buddy and Jovie in
Elf the Musical plus Director, Julian Cottee
John, 29, from Hullbridge plays Buddy the Elf
How did you feel when you found out you’d been cast as Buddy?
My first reaction was pure shock. You’d like to think you have done enough to get the part, but I didn’t expect it. The shock then turned into excitement, as I couldn’t wait to get started. I just felt and still feel honoured to be playing such an iconic part.
What first drew you to audition for Elf the Musical -- are you a huge fan of the film, or was it the irresistible chance to wear sparkly costumes and sing about Christmas?
Elf is my favourite Christmas movie. I can pretty much recite it scene by scene. I got the chance to see the Musical in London years ago and was a little disappointed with some of the character choices made by the actor who played Buddy. I thought the music was great and I liked how they kept some of the well known scenes and dialogue from the film, but I felt really disheartened watching Buddy. As someone who loves and admires the character, I remember thinking (at the time) I’d love to give this role a go, and try and show everyone how I think it should be done. As soon as LTC announced they would be putting on this production, I was so determined to audition for the part.
How would you describe your version of Buddy? Have you added any little twists or quirks that make the role your own?
I would say my version of Buddy is pretty much true to the film. The audiences are going to come and expect Will Ferrell, so that’s what we want to give them! However, the movie is not a musical so I’ve had fun in trying to figure out how Buddy would sing and dance. I guess you can say that’s where I have added my own quirk to the role.
My first reaction was pure shock. You’d like to think you have done enough to get the part, but I didn’t expect it. The shock then turned into excitement, as I couldn’t wait to get started. I just felt and still feel honoured to be playing such an iconic part.
What first drew you to audition for Elf the Musical -- are you a huge fan of the film, or was it the irresistible chance to wear sparkly costumes and sing about Christmas?
Elf is my favourite Christmas movie. I can pretty much recite it scene by scene. I got the chance to see the Musical in London years ago and was a little disappointed with some of the character choices made by the actor who played Buddy. I thought the music was great and I liked how they kept some of the well known scenes and dialogue from the film, but I felt really disheartened watching Buddy. As someone who loves and admires the character, I remember thinking (at the time) I’d love to give this role a go, and try and show everyone how I think it should be done. As soon as LTC announced they would be putting on this production, I was so determined to audition for the part.
How would you describe your version of Buddy? Have you added any little twists or quirks that make the role your own?
I would say my version of Buddy is pretty much true to the film. The audiences are going to come and expect Will Ferrell, so that’s what we want to give them! However, the movie is not a musical so I’ve had fun in trying to figure out how Buddy would sing and dance. I guess you can say that’s where I have added my own quirk to the role.
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This show is bursting with festive cheer — how are you getting into the Christmas spirit during rehearsals?
I am someone who just loves Christmas. I’m happy to play festive bangers throughout the year, so I had no problem in singing about Christmas when we started rehearsing in the height of summer! I’ve been watching lots of clips and scenes from the movie at any given opportunity, which has helped get into the spirit. I also think it’s hard not to feel somewhat Christmasy, when you’re performing with characters like Santa and referencing the North Pole and presents etc. For my wife and I, Christmas kicks off in November so you best believe our tree and decorations are already up with Heart X-Mas blasting through the house and on the way to rehearsals. What’s been the most challenging part so far? Personally the biggest challenge for me has been the pressure I feel taking on this huge role. It’s all self inflicted, because the production team, my fellow cast members, family and friends have all been nothing but supportive. I know I’m very tough on myself when it comes to performing, which isn’t helping with the pressure. The film is a much loved classic to lots of families, and I’m blown away by the amount of people who have bought a ticket and are coming to support local theatre. I just want to deliver the best performance possible and with that comes the weight of the show. I’m probably on stage about 80% of the show as well, so it has been very challenging trying to remember all the lines, lyrics and choreography. Luckily my morning commute into London has been spent by watching rehearsal videos, listening to the soundtrack and reading the script. |
The final challenge to add to the tree, would have to be the rollerblading in Act One. Before June 2025, I had never rollerbladed in my life. I thought it would be similar to ice skating, as that’s the illusion we are trying to create. How wrong was I? I’m no Torvill or Dean, but I found rollerblading lot harder than what I thought it would be. I do have a line in the show that refers to Buddy as a Hazzard on ice. The character fully admits he is not a good skater, so I guess I have that to fall on to. I just want to give a huge shout out to Ewan, Steph, Sam, Tracey and Leanne for the many trips down to Rollacity and for look always being there to catch me when I fall!
What was your first-ever show with Little Theatre Company? How did you first get involved with the group?
My first-ever show with LTC was Sweeney Todd, back in October 2022. I was in the ensemble and I had the best experience. It’s one of my favourite shows in general, but everyone made me feel so welcome. It’s really funny looking back at it now, as I remember being in awe of Julian Cotte (Sweeney Todd) and Ami Roberts’ (Mrs Lovett) performance in that show. Never did I think I would be directed by them both one day! I was previously part of Southend Operatic (SODS) for 4/5 years where I got to play some amazing roles, such as Buck Barrow in Bonnie & Clyde and Mark Cohen in Rent. I had a few friends join LTC from SODS after the pandemic, but I wasn’t sure if I was ready to dive back into the world of am-dram. When looking at LTC’s show line up, I decided to join my friends and I haven’t looked back since!
How do you think Little Theatre Company’s production will differ from the West End version currently playing?
Tough question - I don’t actually plan on seeing the West End’s version. I’m sure it’s great, but judging on London’s previous adaptations I would say LTC’s version is going to be more faithful to the movie. We also have so much love and heart that drives our show. I’m not saying the West-End version doesn’t have that, but none of us are being paid to put this show on - we are simply doing it for pure joy and passion. Every person in the cast, crew, production team, wardrobe, marketing and committee have poured their soul into LTC’s production. We have all devoted many hours into putting on the most Christmassy show possible. I feel so privileged and humbled to be sharing the stage with so many talented and genuine people, as well as honour each performance to everyone behind the scenes. I know that was very cheesy and corny to say, but it is a cheesy show.
What’s been your favourite moment in rehearsals so far?
I have enjoyed so many moments throughout this rehearsal process, it’s so hard to pick a favourite. I guess one that sticks to mind would be rehearsing the number “Nobody Cares About Santa”. There are 7 of us in the number and we spent 2 rehearsals singing through the music with our MD, Alex Wood - and a further 2 rehearsals on choreography with Paige Williamson. Once we had finished the number the PT did not post it on our Facebook group, as they wanted to keep it a surprise. We then performed it for the first time in front of everyone and was so proud after hearing and seeing the reaction from everyone. I hope this number goes down well with the audiences.
I’m not sure if I mentioned how much I love the movie, but it’s also been a real joy to watch the other principles bring their characters to life. I feel like I have grown up with these characters, as they have become part of my Christmas traditional viewing each year. So I have to give a fellow shout out to Guy, Tim, Laura, Ethan, Alex, Lee, Tracey, Vancha and Katie for smashing their roles and making this Elf fan very happy.
My first-ever show with LTC was Sweeney Todd, back in October 2022. I was in the ensemble and I had the best experience. It’s one of my favourite shows in general, but everyone made me feel so welcome. It’s really funny looking back at it now, as I remember being in awe of Julian Cotte (Sweeney Todd) and Ami Roberts’ (Mrs Lovett) performance in that show. Never did I think I would be directed by them both one day! I was previously part of Southend Operatic (SODS) for 4/5 years where I got to play some amazing roles, such as Buck Barrow in Bonnie & Clyde and Mark Cohen in Rent. I had a few friends join LTC from SODS after the pandemic, but I wasn’t sure if I was ready to dive back into the world of am-dram. When looking at LTC’s show line up, I decided to join my friends and I haven’t looked back since!
How do you think Little Theatre Company’s production will differ from the West End version currently playing?
Tough question - I don’t actually plan on seeing the West End’s version. I’m sure it’s great, but judging on London’s previous adaptations I would say LTC’s version is going to be more faithful to the movie. We also have so much love and heart that drives our show. I’m not saying the West-End version doesn’t have that, but none of us are being paid to put this show on - we are simply doing it for pure joy and passion. Every person in the cast, crew, production team, wardrobe, marketing and committee have poured their soul into LTC’s production. We have all devoted many hours into putting on the most Christmassy show possible. I feel so privileged and humbled to be sharing the stage with so many talented and genuine people, as well as honour each performance to everyone behind the scenes. I know that was very cheesy and corny to say, but it is a cheesy show.
What’s been your favourite moment in rehearsals so far?
I have enjoyed so many moments throughout this rehearsal process, it’s so hard to pick a favourite. I guess one that sticks to mind would be rehearsing the number “Nobody Cares About Santa”. There are 7 of us in the number and we spent 2 rehearsals singing through the music with our MD, Alex Wood - and a further 2 rehearsals on choreography with Paige Williamson. Once we had finished the number the PT did not post it on our Facebook group, as they wanted to keep it a surprise. We then performed it for the first time in front of everyone and was so proud after hearing and seeing the reaction from everyone. I hope this number goes down well with the audiences.
I’m not sure if I mentioned how much I love the movie, but it’s also been a real joy to watch the other principles bring their characters to life. I feel like I have grown up with these characters, as they have become part of my Christmas traditional viewing each year. So I have to give a fellow shout out to Guy, Tim, Laura, Ethan, Alex, Lee, Tracey, Vancha and Katie for smashing their roles and making this Elf fan very happy.
Finally, what’s one message you hope the audience takes away from the show?
I think there are many messages that the audience can take away from watching Elf. Firstly - I’m hoping anyone who watches the show comes away feeling the Christmas spirit, because in today’s world I think it’s easy to succumb to doom and gloom. I think the show teaches you the importance of family and being your true self, as well as being able to find joy in the little things and believing in the unbelievable. I’m hoping that Buddy’s sincere optimism inspires anyone to overcome any cynicism in their life, and celebrates the mantra of it’s never too late to change.
I think there are many messages that the audience can take away from watching Elf. Firstly - I’m hoping anyone who watches the show comes away feeling the Christmas spirit, because in today’s world I think it’s easy to succumb to doom and gloom. I think the show teaches you the importance of family and being your true self, as well as being able to find joy in the little things and believing in the unbelievable. I’m hoping that Buddy’s sincere optimism inspires anyone to overcome any cynicism in their life, and celebrates the mantra of it’s never too late to change.
Katie, 26, from Canvey Island plays Jovie
How did you feel when you found out you’d been cast as Jovie?
I was buzzing! The audition process is always so intense and everyone always really brings everything they've got, so it's always an incredible feeling when you're successful. I had some tough competition so I couldn't really believe it when I got the part. I was just so excited to get started, and work alongside the rest of the incredible cast. Definitely had to keep checking the cast list to make sure I wasn't seeing things!
What first drew you to audition for Elf the Musical -- are you a huge fan of the film, or was it the irresistible chance to wear sparkly costumes and sing about Christmas?
I am a huge fan of the film, it's certainly a yearly staple for me and my family, and I am a huge Christmas person so the thought of being a part of starting people's Christmas celebrations off in the best way was lovely. I also knew that LTC would create an absolute spectacle of a show with this, they always do, but I knew this would be something special. Having listened to the soundtrack and learning not only about the amazing lead characters, but also the great opportunities for the ensemble, I knew I couldn't miss it.
I was buzzing! The audition process is always so intense and everyone always really brings everything they've got, so it's always an incredible feeling when you're successful. I had some tough competition so I couldn't really believe it when I got the part. I was just so excited to get started, and work alongside the rest of the incredible cast. Definitely had to keep checking the cast list to make sure I wasn't seeing things!
What first drew you to audition for Elf the Musical -- are you a huge fan of the film, or was it the irresistible chance to wear sparkly costumes and sing about Christmas?
I am a huge fan of the film, it's certainly a yearly staple for me and my family, and I am a huge Christmas person so the thought of being a part of starting people's Christmas celebrations off in the best way was lovely. I also knew that LTC would create an absolute spectacle of a show with this, they always do, but I knew this would be something special. Having listened to the soundtrack and learning not only about the amazing lead characters, but also the great opportunities for the ensemble, I knew I couldn't miss it.
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How would you describe your version of Jovie? Have you added any little twists or quirks that make the role your own?
Jovie is a really interesting character, she massively has her wits about her and uses her dry humour and standoffishness to ensure no one gets too close. But as the story goes on the audience gets to see her soften and grow and become this really layered, rounded character - it's been so fun to portray. I think for me it's been about finding the sweet spot - making her recognisable for those who love the film, but also different enough to be engaging and new. And I'm not sure if it counts as a quirk, but I've been told her resting face, especially compared to Buddy's constant joy, is particularly scathing! |
This show is bursting with festive cheer — how are you getting into the Christmas spirit during rehearsals?
Starting prepping for a Christmas show back in July was definitely interesting, and some people have been wearing Christmas socks and t-shirts since the start of rehearsals! Generally, there's just such a good buzz in the room, everyone is turning up with a smile and high-energy, and the production team have just fostered such a lovely atmosphere in the room every time. Everyone is just there to work together and it feels like one big family which definitely helps keep the high spirits!
Starting prepping for a Christmas show back in July was definitely interesting, and some people have been wearing Christmas socks and t-shirts since the start of rehearsals! Generally, there's just such a good buzz in the room, everyone is turning up with a smile and high-energy, and the production team have just fostered such a lovely atmosphere in the room every time. Everyone is just there to work together and it feels like one big family which definitely helps keep the high spirits!
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What’s been the most challenging part so far?
If I'm going to get deep and personal, honestly for me it's been the moments of imposter syndrome. There have definitely been moments where I've doubted myself and my abilities; Jovie is a big part that people recognise and I want to make sure I'm bringing everything I can to it. Everyone has been so supportive throughout the whole process though, which has massively helped. If you want a less emotional answer, I would say rollerblading on a raked stage while singing is a pretty big challenge too! What was your first-ever show with Little Theatre Company? How did you first get involved with the group? My first show with LTC was Sweeney Todd back in 2022. I first auditioned for the company way back before University, and then again when a friend of a friend suggested I join, and I never looked back! I honestly cannot imagine my life without this club and these people; how a group of people can all be so lovely AND so talented I'll never know. I don't think I'll ever get tired of performing with them. How do you think Little Theatre Company’s production will differ from the West End version currently playing? I think our production will have more heart. I think when you have people who have history and shared experiences creating something like this, you can really see the love that gets poured into it from everyone. I think that's true of any LTC show, but especially a show like Elf, and I think that makes a difference for the audience - it feels more special and personal, going to see a show at your local theatre with your family, and feeling like everyone up on stage is a family too. |
What’s been your favourite moment in rehearsals so far?
Every rehearsal has been such good vibes, it's hard to choose! Hearing the vocals come together on some of the big group numbers has been really special. There's a particular number at the top of act 2 that everyone was particularly excited to see come alive, so watching that for the first time was a definite highlight! But really just the laughs we're all having and the joy that's in the rehearsal space, getting to know people better that I might not have worked super closely with before, it's all just lovely.
Finally, what’s one message you hope the audience takes away from the show?
Ultimately, this show is about finding joy in life, and spreading it as far as you can. I really hope the audience can take away the message that there is joy to be found everywhere, by everybody, and that their Christmas season is started off right by allowing us to share all the joy of this show and this wonderful company with them.
Every rehearsal has been such good vibes, it's hard to choose! Hearing the vocals come together on some of the big group numbers has been really special. There's a particular number at the top of act 2 that everyone was particularly excited to see come alive, so watching that for the first time was a definite highlight! But really just the laughs we're all having and the joy that's in the rehearsal space, getting to know people better that I might not have worked super closely with before, it's all just lovely.
Finally, what’s one message you hope the audience takes away from the show?
Ultimately, this show is about finding joy in life, and spreading it as far as you can. I really hope the audience can take away the message that there is joy to be found everywhere, by everybody, and that their Christmas season is started off right by allowing us to share all the joy of this show and this wonderful company with them.
Julian Cottee is the Director of Elf the Musical
What made you want to direct Elf the Musical for Little Theatre Company’s production this year?
I’ve been a member of the society for nearly 15 years and have done stints as assistant director and director of plays but never the main house show and so felt like it was a natural progression. I was going to direct the Addams Family in 2020 but the pandemic and circumstances put a stop to that so I was waiting for the right show. With Elf, I remember seeing it in 2015 and being a little disappointed that it wasn’t a stage adaptation and so felt like this would be a great challenge to not only be my debut but to push myself to direct something that needed, in my view, a different approach to what was done before. Sprinkle in the opportunity to work with an incredible production team and it was a no brainer.
How have rehearsals been going?
Incredibly well. There are always challenges with amateur productions in that none of us do this as a living so we’ve had to juggle holidays, absences and personal circumstances, but we’ve been blessed with an exceptionally hardworking and positive cast right from the off that we’ve navigated those issues without any hurdles or drama. It’s hard not to be positive with this kind of show, but there’s been a real warmth and community spirit with rehearsals with lots of smiles and laughter that it’s been a joy to do.
I’ve been a member of the society for nearly 15 years and have done stints as assistant director and director of plays but never the main house show and so felt like it was a natural progression. I was going to direct the Addams Family in 2020 but the pandemic and circumstances put a stop to that so I was waiting for the right show. With Elf, I remember seeing it in 2015 and being a little disappointed that it wasn’t a stage adaptation and so felt like this would be a great challenge to not only be my debut but to push myself to direct something that needed, in my view, a different approach to what was done before. Sprinkle in the opportunity to work with an incredible production team and it was a no brainer.
How have rehearsals been going?
Incredibly well. There are always challenges with amateur productions in that none of us do this as a living so we’ve had to juggle holidays, absences and personal circumstances, but we’ve been blessed with an exceptionally hardworking and positive cast right from the off that we’ve navigated those issues without any hurdles or drama. It’s hard not to be positive with this kind of show, but there’s been a real warmth and community spirit with rehearsals with lots of smiles and laughter that it’s been a joy to do.
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With Elf being such a well-loved story, how do you balance staying true to the original while putting your own creative stamp on it?
I said from the outset that I wanted to put the film on stage as that’s what I felt was missing from the 2015 West End version and I think audiences come because they adore the film and so want to meet those expectations. Having said that, Elf is not a film that naturally translates to a musical so we’ve been able to be creative in how we set and choreograph the moments everyone expects for example the “Santa, I know him!” lines interspersed with music and dance that isn’t in the film. What can audiences expect from this version that might surprise them compared to the professional West End production? We’ve been very outlandish with our special effects and have tried to inject a lot of magic into scenes where previously there wasn’t. I’ve also pushed for this to be more than a show for children because I’m 36 and so Elf was part of my teenage life and I think a lot of parents also resonate with the film as part of their adolescence and it was funny, really funny. So whilst there are those magic moments for kids, we’ve injected as much humour as possible which adult audiences will find hilarious to make it a full family show. We are at the end of our rehearsal process and are still laughing out loud at gags we’ve been rehearsing for months so I’m excited to hear the laughter from our audiences. |
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Were there any particular songs or scenes you were most excited to bring to life on stage?
There is a song at the start of Act 2 which references a scene that actually isn’t in the film where Buddy finds out-of-work fake Santas and they sing a song called ‘Nobody Cares about Santa Claus’. It’s a brilliant Louis Armstrong-esque song with brilliant harmonies, but I wanted to give our 6 men who have formed our team of fake Santas more individual characters and Paige Williamson, our incredible choreographer, has really pushed them to the limit with creative dancing involving bouncy balls. My description won’t do it justice, but it’s a showstopper of a number and that’s just the start of the second act! The other one is the start of Act 1 with our Santa and Mrs Claus doing a great job in preparing you for our festive elves coming on stage and boy do they make an entrance! How did you first get involved with Little Theatre Company, and what keeps you coming back either to perform or direct? I had family that had been in the company and when I returned home from university I missed performing so spoke to them and they gave me the details. I auditioned in 2011 and then did over 20 concurrent shows and had several years as the Business Manager and even a year as Chairman. I had a brief break around the pandemic for personal reasons and returned to the company to have the privilege of playing Sweeney Todd. The truth is with my initial run and return is the thing that keeps me coming back is the people. I have friends of almost 15 years and friends of 1 year and LTC is like a second family to the point where the shows become the background to our relationships with each other. I can’t imagine life without it and it's down to the people and the fun we have and will always be grateful for that. |
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What’s been your funniest moment during rehearsals so far?
There are so many - from having to replace ceiling tiles after a bouncy ball dislodged them (thanks John!) to anything that comes out of Tim Cater’s (Walter Hobbs) mouth. I think the great thing is there are so many smaller characters like Hobbs’ aids played by Sean Hynes and Ewan Dunlop or the Macy’s saleswoman played by Charley Sutton and all of our actors have just milked every last drop of comedy out of it that every rehearsal has been nonstop laughter and I would love to NameDrop every actor and their small parts and what they do, but everyone brings 100% to every part so I can watch each individual in every scene and spot something that will make me laugh out loud.
Finally, what do you hope audiences will feel as they leave the Palace Theatre after seeing Elf the Musical this December?
I’ve always said that theatre is the art of escapism and to somewhat echo John’s sentiments, there’s enough in the world at the moment to depress, to provide anxiety or just to worry about including everyone’s daily struggles and so I just hope that our audiences can just spend a few hours with us getting lost in laughter, smiles and Christmas. That for that brief period of time we made you relax, made you happy and hopefully made you feel grateful for your family and the time you can spend with your loved ones just not worrying and instead having fun. There’s a part of one of the songs that asks people to remember that time when you were younger and you remember opening presents, your mum getting your Xmas pyjamas on and laughing at your dad fighting with the Christmas lights and so as the song says, “let those moments live again”.
There are so many - from having to replace ceiling tiles after a bouncy ball dislodged them (thanks John!) to anything that comes out of Tim Cater’s (Walter Hobbs) mouth. I think the great thing is there are so many smaller characters like Hobbs’ aids played by Sean Hynes and Ewan Dunlop or the Macy’s saleswoman played by Charley Sutton and all of our actors have just milked every last drop of comedy out of it that every rehearsal has been nonstop laughter and I would love to NameDrop every actor and their small parts and what they do, but everyone brings 100% to every part so I can watch each individual in every scene and spot something that will make me laugh out loud.
Finally, what do you hope audiences will feel as they leave the Palace Theatre after seeing Elf the Musical this December?
I’ve always said that theatre is the art of escapism and to somewhat echo John’s sentiments, there’s enough in the world at the moment to depress, to provide anxiety or just to worry about including everyone’s daily struggles and so I just hope that our audiences can just spend a few hours with us getting lost in laughter, smiles and Christmas. That for that brief period of time we made you relax, made you happy and hopefully made you feel grateful for your family and the time you can spend with your loved ones just not worrying and instead having fun. There’s a part of one of the songs that asks people to remember that time when you were younger and you remember opening presents, your mum getting your Xmas pyjamas on and laughing at your dad fighting with the Christmas lights and so as the song says, “let those moments live again”.
Below: the cast in rehearsal Photos: (c)KimTobinPhotography