By Jessica Kennedy.
Start your holiday season off with a smile and a song at the Argyle’s Children Theatre production of Harry Connick Jr.’s the Happy Elf! Directed by Kate Keating with dance numbers choreographed by Samantha Gates Weber and songs directed by Cristina Faicco Hall, young and old alike will enjoy this colorful and captivating theatrical experience!
Eubie, brought to life by the talented Richie Dupkin, and his delightful crew of exuberant fellow elves, Hamm and Gilda -played cleverly and comedically by Kevin L. Scarlett and Emily Durand- brought Harry Connick Jr.’s vision of a kid-friendly, jazz inspired holiday show to true fruition! The show follows happy-go-lucky Eubie as he encounters various stumbling blocks on his way to a Merry Christmas and a ride on Santa’s sleigh! Alan Stentiford brilliantly manifests one of those hurdles to happiness as the pessimistic and sardonic Norbert, who challenges Eubie’s attitude of eternal sunshine at every possible turn. Add to that the people of the town Bluesville, a glum and gloomy town where everyone perpetually makes the “naughty list,” and poor Eubie has his work cut out for him! Will he be able to evade Norbert and change the hearts of Bluesville’s toughest cynics in time for a visit from Santa? Come grab a seat and a snack and we will see!
The audience was full of little ones, a sea of sippy cups and booster seats, so the energy in the theater on opening day was electric! The actors did not disappoint, as 10 players embodied a menagerie of elves, angry townspeople, and even jolly old Saint Nick himself (played joyfully and comedically by Evan Schultz)! The transitions from scene to scene were smooth and seamless- blink and you’ll miss Adriana Scheer as Mrs. Claus and then you’ll see her as an elf, a “what” factory worker, or maybe a member of “Gnome-land security.” Scott Earle and Jessica Mae Murphy also impress with their amazing voices, and double duty as elves one moment, and Mr. Mayor and Mrs. Mr. Mayor the next! Add to this the seemingly antagonistic, but secretly heartwarming relationship between Molly and Curtis (the engaging Amanda Geraci and David Reyes), and you have a powerhouse cast that creates a truly magical experience out of pure talent and endless energy!
This adorable show about the indomitable spirit of Christmas is a must see! It will captivate its younger viewers with its colorful costumes and down the aisle dance breaks- likewise, it will warm the hearts of all in attendance as it reminds us what the holiday season is all about. In the words of Eubie himself, “We’re all like a string of Christmas lights. If one light goes out, they all go out. Then everybody’s in the dark.” So take a little light in your life to see this show, and start your holiday season off on a happy note!
This show is running at the Argyle Theater from November 17th- December 30th. Running time is approximately 90 minutes with one 15 minute intermission. Snacks may be purchased at the concession stand, and booster seats are available for younger viewers. There is also an option to meet and greet the cast after the show. Little ones may take pictures with the cast, and get autographs on the last page of their program. For tickets call the box office at (844) 631-5483 or click here.