Unwrap the magic of Christmas with Elf the Musical
Elf the Musical at Mayflower Theatre, Southampton, 4th – 7th December
The holiday season sparkles brighter with the excitement of stepping into the Mayflower Theatre, where the magic of Elf the Musical comes to life! As I make my way through the festively adorned foyer, the air hums with anticipation and laughter, and you can almost hear Buddy’s infectious cheer echoing through the halls. This heartwarming and hilarious tale promises an evening of joy, where the beloved story leaps off the stage, bringing everyone, young and old, a dose of festive wonder.
For anyone who is unfamiliar with the story – based on the beloved 2003 film, this festive musical tells the story of Buddy, a cheerful and spirited elf who discovers he’s actually a human. Determined to find his true identity, he journeys to New York City in search of his father, and a sense of belonging. Along the way, expect plenty of laughs, heartwarming moments, and a generous sprinkle of holiday magic!
The excitement in the theatre begins even before the show starts. Giant snowballs soar through the air, eliciting bursts of laughter and playful shouts, with whispers of a pending snowball fight. The atmosphere is electric, alive with the sparkle of joy reflected in the eyes of every child, and even the adults! Whispers of anticipation ripple through the crowd, and I feel my heart swell with the true magic of Christmas. As the cast takes the stage, the magic washes over us instantly. The true spirit of the season shines brightly, and we are transported to the enchanting world of the North Pole, where the story begins in a dazzling display of festive cheer.
There’s no denying that the show’s heart and soul lie in Buddy, the lovable, exuberant elf, played by Jordan Conway. With boundless energy and a level of character commitment that is nothing short of remarkable, Conway commands the stage from the moment he appears. His hilarious antics and exaggerated humour evoke squeals of delight and endless laughter from the audience. From start to finish, he exudes charisma, seamlessly capturing Buddy’s innocent charm and endearing naivety as he embarks on his journey of self-discovery. Conway’s magnetic performance keeps the audience rooting for Buddy every step of the way, making him the undeniable star of the show.
Opposite Buddy is Jovie, his love interest, portrayed by the talented Kelly Banlaki. Jovie is the classic cynic, a woman who’s seen enough to doubt the magic of happily-ever-after but secretly yearns to believe. Kelly masterfully balances Jovie’s tough exterior with glimpses of vulnerability, making her transformation into someone willing to embrace the magic of Christmas both believable and heartwarming. The chemistry between Jovie and Buddy is sweet and playful, culminating in moments that remind us all of the joy that can come from taking a leap of faith.
Santa, played by Philip Day, embodies the jolly, larger-than-life figure we all know and love from childhood. With a twinkle in his eye, he dances and sings his way into our hearts, filling the stage with festive cheer. More than just a bringer of presents, Santa serves as Buddy’s guiding light, offering wisdom and encouragement with a touch of magic. Philip Day’s portrayal adds an extra layer of heart to the show, reminding us all of the timeless wonder and joy that Santa represents.
Barry Bloxham delivers a compelling performance as Walter Hobbs, Buddy’s estranged father and a workaholic consumed by his career. Barry’s strong stage presence perfectly captures Walter’s gruff, no-nonsense demeanour, embodying a man who has lost sight of what truly matters. Yet, as the story unfolds, Walter’s gradual softening feels authentic and moving, earning the audience’s empathy as he rediscovers the importance of family and the spirit of the season. His redemption arc is a highlight of the show, leaving us all cheering for his heartfelt reconciliation.
Charlotte Dolton and Indy shine as Emily and Michael Hobbs, the loving mother and son duo determined to bring Walter back into the fold. Their scenes are heartfelt and inspiring, illustrating the power of love and family commitment. Charlotte’s nurturing warmth and Indy’s youthful earnestness add depth to the story, making their efforts to bridge the familial divide deeply touching. Their performances remind us that family is at the heart of the holidays.
The ensemble cast is a whirlwind of festive energy, lighting up the stage with bold, colourful dance numbers and effortlessly delivered humour. Their enthusiasm is infectious, drawing the audience into their joyful celebration. Every move, every note, and every smile radiates holiday cheer, creating a vibrant atmosphere that ensures everyone in the theatre feels part of the festivities. It’s clear the performers are having as much fun on stage as we are in the audience, and this mutual joy makes for an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Start your festive season with a burst of joy and magic by booking your tickets to Elf the Musical! This heartwarming and hilarious production is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. Get ready to sing loud for all to hear (although perhaps save it for after the performance), because the spirit of Christmas is alive and thriving at the Mayflower Theatre. Don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones, this is a festive treat you won’t want to skip!