Royal Oak Tribune

‘Elf The Musical’ marks 28th show for Stagecraft­ers director

- By Anne Erickson

Royal Oak’s Stagecraft­ers is celebratin­g the holidays with a presentati­on of the charming Christmas classic “Elf The Musical” at the Baldwin Theatre Nov. 25 through Dec. 18.

Based on the popular 2003 film, “Elf,” “Elf The Musical” tells the tale of Buddy, who was orphaned as a child and raised as an elf at the North Pole. When he finds out that he’s really a human, Buddy goes to New York City to find his real father and human family. However, Buddy discovers that his dad is on the naughty list. Even worse, he also finds out that his half-brother doesn’t believe in Santa. So, Buddy sets out to help his family remember the true meaning of Christmas.

For director Debbie Landis-Sigler, “Elf The Musical” marks her 28th show, including mainstage, youth theatre and second stage. She says this particular show really brings out that festive, holiday spirit, which makes it a perfect fit for the season.

“‘Elf The Musical’ is a great show for the holidays, and it’s a fun way to celebrate and just be happy,” she says. “I think the story is endearing, and the music is fun. Anyone can enjoy this show, so it’s great for family and holiday fun.”

The role of Buddy is being played by Geoff Wrobel. Landis-Sigler says he’s a great fit for the demanding role.

“Geoff is a perfect Buddy, bringing high energy to the part along with his great vocal skills and positive attitude,” she said.

Above all, Landis-Sigler hopes “Elf The Musical” leaves audience members with a positive, uplifting feeling as they exit the theater.

“Stagecraft­ers is a great place to come together to create good theater and be part of a theater family. It allows those of us that play there to give back to a community that we love,” Landis-Sigler says. “Live theater is nothing without the audience. They are the reason we do this. Feeling and seeing their immediate response is what motivates us as actors and directors. For this show, we are there to make them smile and hopefully give them a warm and happy feeling that they can take with them as they deal with the everyday stress we all have.”

For “Elf The Musical,” Stagecraft­ers is partnering with Metro Detroit Youth Clubs to collect canned food items for the Metro Detroit Youth Clubs Food Drive. They’ll also be collecting Christmas presents for children ages 6-18.

Tickets are $35 for performanc­es on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and $25 on Thursdays. A $3 ticket fee is applied to each ticket. Tickets can be purchased at stagecraft­ers.org or by calling 248-541-6430.

 ?? PHOTO COURTESY OF STAGECRAFT­ERS ?? Stagecraft­ers will present “Elf The Musical” at the Baldwin Theatre Nov. 25 through Dec. 18.
PHOTO COURTESY OF STAGECRAFT­ERS Stagecraft­ers will present “Elf The Musical” at the Baldwin Theatre Nov. 25 through Dec. 18.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United States