Elf the Musical brings the festivities to Salford

AS we’re well into the festive season, Elf the Musical has descended upon The Lowry theatre in Salford along with lots of Christmas cheer, and you’d be a Grinch if it didn’t get you into the Christmas spirit.

Based on the 2003 favourite Christmas film, the story follows an ‘elf’ called Buddy who is actually a human, where he sets out to discover more about his human life and to bring back the spirit of Christmas.

With romance along the way, Buddy stars alongside Atomic Kitten singer, Liz McClarnon, who becomes his first human love after he meets her in a ‘Macy’s’ department store. Ben Forster takes on the role of Buddy; an ambitious role to follow in the footsteps of Will Ferrell in the hit movie.

Despite the large boots to fill, Forster takes on and executes the role perfectly- resulting him being the star of the show. His naivety throughout the performance is comical.

Liz McClarnon also plays a convincing Jovie with the same initial stubbornness towards Christmas as Zooey Deschanel who plays the character in the film; warming to the festivities when she realises the true meaning behind Christmas.

Another star performance came from the youngster, Lochlan White, who plays the role of Buddy’s half-brother, Michael. His confidence in his performing is sublime, and his American accent for an actor of such a young age is faultless.

And of course, Elf the Musical wouldn’t be complete without snow, Santa and his sleigh. As snow fell from the theatre’s ceiling in a dark room, Santa emerged on a n awe-inspiring sleigh that flew through the audience, with a comical note on the back that encouraged a raucous cheer: “next stop, Salford!”

Just beautiful. Feeling VERY festive now. The brilliantly amazing @thebenforster in the magical Elf The Musical. ❄️??

— Lynne (@Lyndiloo) November 24, 2017

Elf the Musical’s quality production and set design coupled with excellent dance choreography and live orchestra transports you to Buddy’s exciting Christmas world. This is a guaranteed trip to the theatre, which will make you wish everyday were Christmas Eve.