Christmas comes early this year at the Dominion Theatre. And it’s quite spectacular.
Elf is a musical based on the famous 2003 American comedy. Since its premiere, Elf has become a Christmas favourite.
The story is about a guy named Buddy (Simon Lipkin), raised by elves at the North Pole. He then discovers he isn't an elf, and travels, on a cold December, to New York, to find his real-life dad (Tom Chambers), a publisher of children's books.
The plot may not be very original, and the songs not so memorable, but there is plenty to enjoy in this production, directed by Philip Wm McKinley and with a playful book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin: an all singing and dancing cast, flying sleigh, high growing candy canes, clever jokes and punchlines, hilarious elves shuffling around the stage, and much more.
Tim Goodchild has obviously put a lot of thought into creating a set that ranges from Christmas Town in the North Pole to the toy department of Macy's from the Empire State Building to the ice rink at the Rockefeller Centre.
Simon Lipkin who plays the main character Buddy is incredibly likeable – full of energy but maintaining the antics and fun throughout. His character is full of good cheer, love, innocence, and cheekiness.
He is very well supported by Kim Ismay as the bubbly Deb, by Rebecca Lock as Emily Hobbs and by a generally underused Georgina Castle as Jovie, who sings beautifully "Never Fall in Love (with an Elf)" in Act II.
Elf is a funny and entertaining musical, and will be an emotionally satisfying experience for the entire family and for everyone who loves the spirit of the holidays.
It runs until 7 January. Tickets from £24 here.
Photo: Mark Senior