Buddy the Elf is on a journey that will take him through the seven levels of the candy cane forest and the sea of swirly-twirly gum drops on his way to New York City — with a detour to Biloxi on the way.
One of Santa’s most famous helpers is bringing his special brand of Christmas cheer to the Coast this season. Inspired by the beloved holiday movie, “Elf the Musical” will be at Beau Rivage Resort and Casino from Dec. 12-28.
Jeb Rand, executive producer and director with Rand Productions, describes the production as “a true snow globe-come-to-life experience” and “a Christmas card from Beau Rivage to the Gulf Coast region.”
“’Elf the Musical’ is a box-office record-breaker that combines vintage comic style and high-energy contemporary music,” Rand says. “Based on the hit movie ‘Elf,’ this Broadway musical is a fun-filled holiday production for the whole family.”
Like the holiday blockbuster starring Will Ferrell, the show follows Buddy, an orphan turned elf who ventures to New York City to find his birth father. Throughout his hilarious journey, he is determined to help his new family — and the whole of New York — rediscover their Christmas spirit.
While the show generally remains faithful to the film, audiences will enjoy musical and dance numbers that are exclusive to the production.
“More than 1,000 singers and dancers auditioned in New York City for 24 spots in the cast, according to Rand. All performers in the ensemble are professional theatre veterans.
Parker Viator, playing the lead role of Buddy, is a Hattiesburg native and pleased to be spreading Christmas cheer at the Beau, a venue he visited as a child. His recent credits include roles in “Cinderella” and “A Chorus Line” at Flat Rock Playhouse, as well as lead vocalist with SeaWorld Entertainment.
Playing alongside Viator as Jovie, Buddy’s love interest and the lead female character, is Lindsay Bohon — a NYC-based triple-threat who holds a bachelor’s in musical theater from James Madison University. Her professional background includes performing as a dancer and singer for Carnival Cruise Lines.
Rand, the musical’s producer and director, is internationally renowned and has an entertainment career spanning more than 30 years. Since 1996, he has created, directed and produced acclaimed shows in 16 countries. He spent eight years in New York City at Radio City Music Hall with the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the Rockettes, among other high-profile productions.
Mary Cracchiolo, director of communications for the Beau Rivage, promises ‘Elf’ audiences “a night of fun and laughter guaranteed to get every member of the family in the holiday spirit.” Beyond the show, the Biloxi casino resort will deck its halls with towering nutcrackers, a 25-foot Christmas tree and Santa’s sleigh.
“Each holiday season, Beau Rivage transforms into a winter wonderland with breathtaking holiday décor, festive events and live entertainment,” Cracchiolo says. “The Christmas production show is a holiday tradition at the Beau and something for the entire family to enjoy.”
IF YOU GO
“Elf the Musical” at Beau Rivage
Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, 875 Beach Blvd., Biloxi
Dec 12 –28, 2024 performances (dark Dec. 13, 16 and 23). Schedule and tickets www.beaurivage.com
Tickets prices are $25, $30, $35 and $40, plus tax and service charge. Packages of four tickets start at $60, plus tax and facility fee by clicking “Unlock” and entering code: ELF. Tickets and packages may be purchased at www.beaurivage.com or by calling (888) 566-7469.
Hotel packages start at $149 and include accommodations for one night and two show tickets when mentioning offer code: HOLIDAY. For Elf the Musical hotel and ticket packages, call (800) 964-7036.