5 reasons to see Elf The Musical in the West End this Christmas
Written by Penny for Theatre & Tonic
Son of a Nutcracker!
Elf the Musical is back in London for a fourth Christmas run at the Aldwych Theatre. With twinkling fairy lights, festive décor and candy canes in abundance, walking into the theatre feels as if you are literally stepping into Christmas!
Every year, friends and family are divided over what is the ultimate Christmas film. Passionate cases are presented for Love Actually, The Muppet Christmas Carol, It’s a Wonderful Life and even Die Hard! But it’s hard to argue against the story of Buddy the Elf and his exploits in New York City as a film worthy of a high position on any festive movie league table. And it’s hard to think of a Christmas film more suited to a musical stage adaptation. Read on for our five reasons to see Elf this Christmas.
1. This year, theatre power couple Joel Montague and Carrie Hope Fletcher take on the leading roles of Buddy and his love interest Jovie. Carrie is a wonderfully relatable performer and her solo number, ‘Never Fall in Love (With an Elf)’ is funny, poignant and beautifully delivered. And, of course, her chemistry with Buddy was heartwarming and very real.
But, this show belongs to Buddy, and Joel Montague is perfect in the role. He has a perfect blend of naivety and charm, a wide-eyed innocent sprinkling some sparkle in a city that has forgotten how to shine. Whether he’s charging around creating havoc, leading a big song and dance number, making the most unlikely friends or asking for a hug, he’s always lovable and engaging. His singing is fabulous and his energy completely infectious.
2. The supporting cast is just as good. Aled Jones gives an excellent performance as the absent father – not just for long-lost son Buddy but also for young Michael whose only Christmas wish is to spend a day with his Dad – without ever being in danger of becoming a panto villain. His joyless corporate executive is a long way from the angelic choirboy “walking in the air” but we all hope that joyful little boy is still in there somewhere!
Talking of Michael, we saw talented young actor Samuel Sturge in the role, he has a very bright future ahead of him. His duet with mum Emily (a wonderfully warm Rosanna Hyland) was a highlight of the show.
3. The music has a classic show tune feel that gets your toes tapping, Act Two begins with a group of cynical department store Santas lamenting their impending unemployment in a number called ‘Nobody Cares About Santa’ – suddenly turning into an up tempo dance number. Who doesn’t love a line of dancing Santas, all perfectly in sync with each other?
4. The story has had a bit of an update – Santa now has an ipad rather than lugging around a massive book full of boys and girls’ wishes. But all of the iconic parts of the film are there. The audience is just waiting for lines like “cotton-headed ninny muggins” and “Santa! I know him!” and the show does not disappoint!
5. The ending is truly magical. No spoilers but it’s a joyful finale complete with real snow (OK, a slight spoiler!) and some festive theatrical magic that will turn the most hardened heart into a believer!
So, we think Elf is a perfect start to the festive season and defy anybody to leave the theatre without a huge smile on their face. Spending an evening at Elf the Musical is definitely right up there with singing for the best way to spread Christmas cheer!
Elf the Musical plays at the Aldwych Theatre until Saturday 3rd January. Find out more and book here.
