MSU Summer Theatre presents ‘Elf the Musical’
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Minot State University Summer Theatre will wrap up its 2023 season with the production of "Elf the Musical," based on the popular Christmas movie, from July 24-28 and July 30-Aug. 1.
This fun family musical follows the adventures of Buddy the Elf, who sets out from the North Pole to find his dad in New York City. When Buddy discovers that his dad is on the naughty list, he resolves to help everyone find their joyful spirit.
In fact, cast member Abigail Groves posits that's one of the main reasons people should attend a Christmas musical in the middle of summer - to find and celebrate the best of Christmas spirit in the summer.
"You're in for a sparkle, jolly, twinkle time," she said.
"It's a little bit comical to see people running around in the middle of summer, 'shivering' while sweating bullets," said Jakob Innes, who portrays Buddy the Elf.
But Director Emily Wirkus said the themes aren't solely for Christmas.
"There's such a great message about focusing on what's most important to you, and sometimes that takes growth and change - whether that be growing up or in some ways growing down and nurturing your inner child. Elf is such a great reminder to celebrate joy in your life, whatever that uniquely means to you, and holding the ones you love near. The biggest joy for me in this process has been watching a character like Buddy - someone most would categorize as a bit too much and perhaps a bit childish - uniquely touch the lives of people who have lost their spark somewhere along the road of life. Buddy shows us through his journey that the best way to spread that joy is by being unabashedly yourself, and lifting people up. Something I think we remember most at Christmas but is a great way to live life all around," Wirkus said.
Patrons are invited to celebrate Christmas in July at Summer Theatre, with Christmas lights by Pretty Lights and a meet and greet with Santa. Doors open at 8 p.m., and shows start at 8:30 p.m.
For tickets, call 858-3228 or order online at minotstateu.edu/theatre. Ticket prices are adults, $16; senior, high school students, active military, MSU faculty, staff and summer school students, $11; children aged 12 and younger, $8. Deluxe seating is $25-$35.