Elf on Broadway Review: Grey Henson Is on the Nice List
The holiday season on Broadway gets a sparkling gift with Grey Henson's delightful portrayal of Buddy in 'Elf: The Musical' at the St. James Theatre. The Tony-nominated actor (known for 'Mean Girls') brings fresh energy and infectious enthusiasm to the role made famous by Will Ferrell in the 2003 film.
Henson masterfully balances the character's childlike wonder with genuine emotional depth, creating a Buddy who's both endearingly naive and surprisingly nuanced. His performance particularly shines in musical numbers like 'World's Greatest Dad' and 'Sparklejollytwinklejingley,' where his strong vocals and natural comedic timing create moments of pure theatrical joy.
The production, directed by Casey Nicholaw, surrounds Henson with dazzling choreography and spectacular holiday sets that transform the St. James Theatre into a winter wonderland. The supporting cast complements Henson's performance perfectly, creating an ensemble that captures the magic of the original film while adding Broadway pizzazz.
What sets this adaptation apart is Henson's ability to make the role his own without attempting to replicate Ferrell's iconic performance. His Buddy exudes warmth and authenticity, making the character's journey from the North Pole to New York City feel fresh and engaging for both newcomers and fans of the film.
While some movie-to-stage adaptations struggle to justify their existence, this production of 'Elf,' anchored by Henson's stellar performance, proves there's still plenty of Christmas magic to be found in this heartwarming story. It's a holiday treat that reminds us why we go to the theater: to believe in something magical, if only for a few hours.
