**** I will start off by saying that I was not in love with the New Line Cinema film “Elf” written by David Berrenbaum. I did enjoy Bob Newhart and his role, and  being in the holiday spirit ( aren’t we all?) made the trip down to the Auditorium to make sure that all of you were made aware of how this live musical ( with a book by Thomas Meehan & Bob Martin, music by Matthew Sklar and lyrics by Chad Beguelin) compares to the film version ( not a musical). I truly enjoyed the production, smoothly directed by Philip Wm. McKinley and with Liam Steel’s exquisite choreography.

The story is simple. Buddy ( an amazing performance from Jack Ducat, who brings the simple character to a stronger position than depicted in the film) is a human, who has been raised by Santa’s elves on the North Pole. All of his life, he has been an elf and now Santa ( Andrew Hendrick) is telling him the true story and sends him off to New York to meet his father, Walter Hobbs (Jeff Brooks), who was unaware of Buddy even being born, let alone, being his long lost child. Santa send him on his way and for the duration of the play, we learn about the ups and downs of an elf adjusting to life in a big city with a family. He falls in love with Jovie ( the adorable Felicia Martis), who is herself looking for a better life, love and the spirit of Christmas. In fact, that is the premise of the story. People lacking the Christmas spirit,

It is a pretty simple story, but as it is told, in this production ( far better than the 2024 tour) it works. The tap dance number is spectacular and the opening dance number “Happy All The Time” is a delight. The dancers truly prove how important a strong ensemble can be as they all become elves and do some amazing moves. ( I am sure they are hurting in the morning).

Buddy’s step-mother, Emily is played by Yara Martin, who has a great vocal range and keeps the family together. Buddy’s half brother is played to perfection by Camden Kwok ( Ryan Duck on alternate performances) and the ensemble pretty much carries the load: Katelyn Lauria, Darius J. Manuel, Connor Barton, Calista Case, Derick Donato, Adam Furgal, Kabir Gandhi, Tanner Gleeson, Patrick Johnson, Vanessa Mitchell, Clark Anton Rulon, Emma Sucato, Keila Sue Wong, Annie Wogisch, Alysia Varstardis and Mikayal Thrasher. This ensemble is terrific.

On the tech side, the costumes and set were designed by Tim Goodchild. The use of computer technology has sure made the road show a lot easier. Ian William Galloway’s videos were spellbinding. The costume changes were quick and efficient, and as one who does Santa, I know that the quick changes were probably handled with a lot of Velcro. Great stuff! The music is not memorable or even hummable with the exception of “The Story Of Buddy”- this is 2 1/2 hours of happiness and  joy. Oh yes, it has a very happy ending as all of New York( and some Chicagoans in the audience) get into the spirit, allowing Santa to continue his scheduled Christmas Eve run. Do you believe in Miracles? Broadway In Chicago has one on the Auditorium stage!

“Elf the Musical” will continue thru – Dec 14th with performances as follows: