I saw Elf the Musical at Milton Keynes Theatre this week. It was exactly the dose of magic we all need to kickstart the forthcoming festive season. I have seen countless pantos, Christmas shows, and West End productions and I wasn’t sure how this stage adaptation would measure up to the 2003 film. But from the very first song, it was clear that Elf the Musical brings its own charm, warmth, and humour to Buddy’s story.
Elf follows Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, who discovers in adulthood that he’s not actually an elf at all. He sets off to New York City to find his real father, only to discover that his long-lost dad is a bit of a Scrooge, his stepbrother doesn’t believe in Santa, and the city itself could do with a big dose of Christmas cheer. It’s a story about family, acceptance, and embracing the childlike wonder of the season—an ideal mix for a family musical.
The show has all the sparkle and energy you could hope for. The set design is wonderfully festive, transforming from the cheerful North Pole to the bustling streets of New York in seconds. And the costumes are fabulous! Buddy’s iconic green and yellow elf outfit is as delightful in real life as it is on screen, and the ensemble cast looked fabulous in their elf hats and glittering winter outfits. The whole production feels like a Christmas card come to life.
One of the highlights for me was the music. With songs by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, the score is catchy, upbeat, and full of heart. Numbers like World’s Greatest Dad and A Christmas Song are bound to stick in your head long after the curtain falls. The big group numbers are particularly fun, with lively choreography and a joyful energy that sweeps you up and makes you want to sing along.
The role of Buddy is key, of course, and the actor playing him (sadly, I didn’t catch his name!) did an excellent job. He captured Buddy’s wide-eyed innocence, boundless enthusiasm, and slightly over-the-top cheeriness without it ever feeling forced. Watching him navigate New York City—hugging strangers, mistaking an escalator for a carnival ride, and generally being utterly oblivious—was a delight. His comic timing was spot-on, and he had the whole audience in stitches.
I also have to give a mention to the actor playing Buddy’s dad. He managed to play the “grumpy, work-obsessed father” without being too much of a caricature, and you could really see his character soften as Buddy worked his Christmas magic. Their relationship was genuinely touching, and it gave the show some emotional weight amidst all the festive fun.
The show is very family-friendly, but I noticed plenty of nods and moments that older audience members could enjoy too. It doesn’t shy away from poking a bit of fun at the commercialism of the season, and there’s a gentle humour that appeals to both children and adults. It’s light-hearted, yes, but it’s got heart, too—a nice balance that’s not always easy to strike in a Christmas show.
The atmosphere in Milton Keynes Theatre was fantastic. By the end, the whole theatre was buzzing, with people humming the songs as they headed out into the chilly night. And, really, isn’t that what you want from a Christmas show? To leave with a bit more cheer than when you came in?
If you’re looking for something festive to do this week, I’d highly recommend Elf the Musical. It’s feel-good, funny, and full of Christmas spirit, with enough sparkle to enchant audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of the film or new to Buddy’s story, you’ll leave the theatre feeling warm, festive, and maybe even ready to spread a little Christmas cheer yourself. Elf is only at Milton Keynes Theatre until Sunday, so don’t miss your chance – it’s a real treat for the whole family.
Guest Reviewer
Based on the cherished 2003 New Line Cinema hit, Elf features songs by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin (Disney’s Aladdin On Broadway, The Wedding Singer), with a book by Tony Award winners Thomas Meehan (Annie, The Producers, Hairspray) and Bob Martin (The Drowsy Chaperone).
Buddy, a young orphan mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised unaware that he is actually a human, until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh reality that his father is on the naughty list, and his step-brother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.
This modern day classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner elf. After all, the best way to spread Christmas Cheer is singing loud for all to hear!
Elf The Musical
Elf the Musical at Milton Keynes Theatre
Performance(s): Wed 6 Nov – Sun 10 Nov 2024
