Fun & Festive!
The
spirit of the season arrived in splendid holiday style at Halifax’s Neptune
Theatre last week, with the Canadian stage premier of the contemporary
Christmas classic Elf.
From
the opening notes to the closing chorus, lead Mark Uhre (well-cast as the
perky, quirky and beloved Buddy the Elf) takes a sure hold of centre stage (and
the animated, all-ages audience) and never lets go. And though it might seem a stretch
to fill Will Farrell’s swirly shoes, the young actor succeeds at making the role
his very own. Lavishly outlandish - and often deliciously outrageous – Uhre’s supple
Gumbyesque physique is perfect for the part, twisting and turning across the floor
for the entire two-hour performance. If his prowess doesn’t push you to believe,
then his powerful voice will.
Uhre
is not alone in the action, however, as solid supporting spots from Marty Burt
(as Walter Hobbs), Liz Gilroy (as Emily Hobbs) and Blair Irwin (as Buddy’s love
interest Jovie) accentuate the already positive.
The
ensemble is also engaging – strong, soaring vocals and creative choreography
bring the simple stage design to life, putting the focus back where it belongs;
on the performances.
Speaking
thereof, the cast’s many pint-sized players are cute and quaint in their bite-sized
roles. In particular, Elijah Mackenzie Smith holds his own as Buddy’s brother
Michael Hobbs.
Mention
should also be made of the superb six-piece sonic ensemble, fronted by musical
director Patrick Burwell, which at times sounded more like a full Broadway-style
orchestra, filling the space with stirring and spirited melodies.
And
while the score might still seem unfamiliar to some – the film is less than a
decade old – it is only a matter of time before the songs embed themselves into
the collective Christmas consciousness.
A
fun and festive outing for the family and for children of all ages!
Elf at Neptune Theatre
in Halifax until January 6
www.neptunetheatre.com 
