December 16, 2024
By Eve Copeland

This holiday season, the young thespians of Rise Up Arts Alliance are lighting up the stage with their enchanting rendition of Elf Jr. sponsored by Gay Fad Studios.

Elf Jr. is a heartwarming musical adaption of the beloved Will Ferrell holiday film. The story follows Buddy, a human who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a baby and raised by Santa’s elves. Upon discovering his true identity, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his biological father, who is on Santa’s naughty list.

Along the way, Buddy encounters a world that is skeptical of Christmas magic, but his unyielding holiday spirit and infectious enthusiasm transform the lives of everyone he meets, ultimately bringing his family and the city together in celebration.

Producer Judith Cosgray shared her thoughts on the production, “There is nothing more joyful than watching the students perform this Christmas classic. They have worked for eight weeks learning new music and dialog to bring this story to life. it is so wonderful when we have two casts because it’s like seeing a completely different show. They all bring their own spin and personalities to each character.”

The diverse cast, ranging in age from five to 17, showcases a variety of talented kids. Cosgray expressed immense pride, especially in the youngest members.

“We are so proud of all those little ones, some that are still emergent readers memorized all their lines,” Cosgray said.

In addition to the heartwarming performances, the event promises to be a complete holiday outing.

“We have created a whole experience with the musical, a hot chocolate bar, mocktails, and a few vendors set up for shopping. Come and spend two hours with your family sipping your own hot cocoa creations and sharing a musical story. There is nothing more important than spending time together as a family,” Cosgray added.

All performances will be held at the Lancaster Parks and Recreation Community Center (632 W. Fifth Ave., Lancaster).

Cast A (starring River Scofield as Buddy, Graham Morris as Santa, Amara Baranek as Jovie, Beau Tipton as Walter, Marley Beckett as Emily and Nolan Dimberg as Michael) will perform on Thursday, December 19 at 7 pm, Saturday, December 21 at 2 pm and Sunday, December 22 at 4 pm.

Cast B (starring Jackson Mount as Buddy, Owen Miller as Santa, Vanessa Solt as Jovie, Luke Foley as Walter, Khloe Lowe as Emily and Jayden Ferguson as Michael) will perform on Friday, December 20 at 7 pm, Saturday, December 21 at 7 pm, and Sunday, December 22 at 2 pm.

Tickets are available at the door or online at riseuparts.ludus.com. Online prices are $12 for adults (ages 12 and older), $10 for senior citizens and those who have served in the military, and $8 for children (ages 3-11). Prices at the door will be $3.00 more.

Next up for Rise Up Arts Alliance is the Hunchback of Notre Dame the weekends of January 24 and 31.

In the interest of full disclosure, Buddy from Cast A is part of the Pickerington Online family. We love you River and are extremely proud. Break a leg!