“Elf: The Musical” is now playing at New Stage Theatre in Jackson. The musical premiered on Broadway in 2010 and is inspired by the 2003 comedy film, “Elf” which celebrated its 20th anniversary last month.
Over 20 actors were on stage and a dozen crew members backstage came together over an 18 day rehearsal process to bring this Christmas classic to life.
The show was directed by Peppy Biddy who previously directed shows such as “A Christmas Carol”, “A Little Shop of Horrors” and “Clue” among others. Biddy described the show as one of their bigger musicals New Stage has ever produced especially when it comes to special effects and production design.
“There are eight to ten moving pieces of scenery that are choreographed to the music and on a timer, so there are literally a lot of moving parts,” said Biddy. “It was quite a challenge, but one I think we achieved based on the audience reaction we’ve had.”
Jack Baugh of New York travels to act in community theaters across the nation. He made his New Stage debut in “Lend Me a Soprano” earlier this year and will feel the curly shoes of Will Ferrell to play Buddy.
“There’s a little of Will Ferrell in me from watching the movie, but there’s only one Will Ferrell and I didn’t want to copy him,” said Baugh. “I wanted to do my own thing. Honestly, a lot of the silliness you see on stage is really my personality. It is really not a reach for me to be over the top and crazy.”
Veteran New Stage Actor Chris Roebuck plays Santa Claus and was not only inspired by Ed Asner’s take on the character in the film but others such as Paul Giamatti in “Fred Claus” and Edmund Glenn’s Oscar-winning performance in “Miracle on 34th Street”.
“I love this movie ever since it came out, so being a part of telling this story is great,” said Roebuck. “Also, I love being able to play one of the greatest people in the world, Santa Claus. It really is an honor to play this guy.”
On the December 2 showing, families had the chance to meet Santa and Buddy after the performance. Kids received Elf hats, milk and cookies.
One of those in attendance was Twyneseia Grays of Port Gibson who left the theatre filled with Christmas spirit.
“I really liked the show,” said Grays. “It was filled with Christmas cheer and nostalgia. It reminds me of being a little child. It really got me in the mood for Christmas, because it’s coming up so fast and I’m super excited!”
The show opened on November 30 and will runthrough December 21 on select nights. For tickets and information, visit here or call the box office at 601-948-3533.
