WCT’s ‘Elf’ finds a delightful buddy

Timothy Conn, Jcob Cesar and Abby Rassmussen cavort with the ensemble during Waukesha Civic Theatre’s “Elf.”

Timothy Conn, Jcob Cesar and Abby Rassmussen cavort with the ensemble during Waukesha Civic Theatre’s “Elf.”

 
 

By Janet Mitchell 

Published Dec. 9, 2019

Waukesha Civic Theatre’s Christmas offering this year is the musical “Elf.” Based on the movie of the same name, it tells the story of Buddy, a child-like man working as one of Santa’s helpers at the North Pole. Santa reveals to Buddy that he is actually not an elf, but a human with a father living in New York City. Buddy sets off to find his father – a stern, distant businessman who knows nothing of his existence. Buddy has many adventures as he tries to bond with his dad, step-mother and half-brother as well as dating a lovely but cynical Macy’s clerk named Jovie. As you can imagine, a lot happens before Buddy can have his happy ending. 

Timothy Conn plays Buddy to perfection. From his wide-eyed innocence to his constant unawareness of personal space, Conn, as Buddy, is truly a Christmas delight. He also does the most amazing slow-motion fall I’ve ever seen. 

Rose Miller and CJ Goldberg appear in Waukesha Civic Theatre’s “Elf.”

Rose Miller and CJ Goldberg appear in Waukesha Civic Theatre’s “Elf.”

Other show standouts are CJ Goldberg as Buddy’s new brother, Michael. Michael, deprived of any real closeness with his father, immediately accepts Buddy into the family and enjoys new elfish treats, such as spaghetti with syrup for breakfast. Goldberg does a nice job. Lauren Vock plays Jovie and her transformation after Buddy enters her life is heart-warming. She also has a lovely singing voice. 

This PG show may have a light-hearted theme, but is NOT for young children. Buddy, while being different, is frequently called stupid, nuts, insane and told to “take your meds.” Is this what children should emulate? Jovie also refers to herself as a bitch and this becomes more than a passing thing as Buddy tries to pronounce the word too. While I think the reference to a “special hug” that Buddy had never experienced will go over most youngsters’ heads, I really question why these were included.  

 “Elf” runs through Dec. 22. Visit waukeshacivictheatre.org for ticket information. The Margaret Brate Bryant Civic Theatre Building is located at 264 West Main Street.