Performances of Elf: The Musical, the Pacific Conservatory Theatre’s (PCPA) latest production, will run through Saturday, Dec. 23, at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria. Adapted from the popular 2003 film, this local iteration of the stage musical includes songs by composer Matthew Sklar and lyricist Chad Beguelin.
The show’s cast is led by George Walker (pictured, left), who portrays Buddy, a human raised as an elf who leaves the North Pole as an adult to embark on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, Walter, played by Andrew Philpot (right).
The creative team behind PCPA’s holiday production includes music director Paul Marszalkowski, scenic designer Jason Bolen, costume designer Jacqueline Heimel, lighting designer Jennifer “Z” Zornow, assistant lighting designer Krys Newbury, sound designer Tony Angelini, properties director Tim Hogan, and stage manager Jack D. Myles.
PCPA Resident Artist and Casting Director Keenon Hooks serves as both the show’s director and choreographer. In press materials, Hooks described Elf: The Musical as a winter escape, while comparing it to one way he used to cope with the absence of snow at Christmas during his upbringing.
“When I was a kid, I used to love decorating for Christmas,” said Hooks, who added that he especially admired setting up his grandparents’ snow globes. “Growing up in Southern California, we weren’t used to the real-life idea of a white Christmas. So I would live vicariously through these magical spheres.
“It is quite beautiful how something so small and simple can help you escape and visit places you have yet to see and experience in person. Theater also gives us that gift,” Hooks continued. “It allows us to let go of reality for a moment and enjoy the world of the play we are about to witness. Elf: The Musical is no exception.”
For more info on the show, visit pcpa.org. The Marian Theatre is located at 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria.
