Milwaukee families are in for a festive treat this season as Elf The Musical makes its way to the Marcus Performing Arts Center.
Based on the 2003 film starring Will Ferrell, this Broadway hit brings the same warmth and humor to the stage with larger-than-life characters, toe-tapping tunes, and plenty of holiday cheer.
Running from November 26 through December 1, the production tells the story of Buddy, a human raised at the North Pole who embarks on a journey to New York City to reconnect with his birth father. Buddy’s childlike optimism and determination to spread Christmas joy make for a heartwarming adventure that’s fun for audiences of all ages.
Critics have praised the show’s high-energy performances and lively score. With music by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, and a book by Tony winners Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin, Elf The Musicalpromises a night of family-friendly entertainment.
The New York Times calls it “splashy, peppy, sugar-sprinkled holiday entertainment,” while USA Today describes it as “endearingly goofy.”
Directed by Sam Scalamoni and featuring choreography by Connor Gallagher, the production combines sharp comedy with holiday magic. Parents can expect plenty of laughs, catchy songs, and a message that reminds everyone about the importance of family and Christmas spirit.
Performances will take place at Uihlein Hall, with eight shows scheduled, including matinees on November 29 and November 30. For families requiring additional accessibility, a sign language-interpreted performance is available on November 30 at 2:00 p.m.
Elf The Musical Performance Schedule:
- Tuesday, November 26 – 7:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, November 27 – 7:30 p.m.
- Friday, November 29 – 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday, November 30 – 2:00 p.m. (Sign Language Interpretation) & 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, December 1 – 1:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes (with a 15-minute intermission) Location: Uihlein Hall, Marcus Performing Arts Center, 929 N Water St, Milwaukee.
Looking for more holiday fun? Check out our Milwaukee Holiday Guide for 2024 to discover other festive events around town, or cozy up with the kids and enjoy one of these G-Rated Christmas Movies for the perfect holiday movie night.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.