Anwar Thomas as Macy’s Manager (top left) and Jeffrey Shankle as Buddy (top right) and Ensemble. Photo by Jeri Tidwell Photography.
With bright lights, bouncy tunes and an abundance of Yuletide cheer, “Elf The Musical” will get you into the holiday spirit!
When was the last time you hummed along to a show tune like “Sparklejollytwinklejingley,” one of the highlights from “Elf The Musical,” the holiday offering at Toby’s Dinner Theatre in Columbia? Can’t remember? Never? Indeed, the songs (music and lyric by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin) were made for an audience to hum along, and you will especially enjoy the words to that aforementioned sparkly tune that lives up to its descriptive title. The Broadway musical is based on the popular 2003 film starring Will Ferrell, with a book adapted by Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan from the movie.
…family-friendly comedy that showcases a hilarious performance by triple threat, Jeffrey Shankle and his hilarious performance as Buddy…The entire cast is terrific…
If you’re looking for that long-forgotten Christmas spirit and need a good reminder, check out Toby’s, known for good food, fancy cocktails like the Cotton-Headed-Ninny-Muggins (frozen hot chocolate with Bailey’s topped with whipped cream), and talent galore. “Elf The Musical” is a family-friendly comedy that showcases a hilarious performance by triple threat, Jeffrey Shankle, as Buddy, the lovable elf at the center throughout.
The show, too, is filled with good cheer, everything a holiday musical could offer. It’s bright and colorful with generous comic bits. Buddy was over-the-top at times, but his antics remain honest and touching—some brought tears along with the belly laughs. How could you not love an actor so full of belief in his character? The audience stood and cheered (and seemingly believed) in the magic of Christmas, especially in the knock-out song, “Nobody Cares About Santa.” There was also a moving rendition of “Nobody Cares (Santa Reprise)” by Jordan B. Stocksdale as Santa.
A nod goes to Shane Lowry for the creative scenic and properties design. I loved sitting under multiple strings of hanging lights that greeted us as we entered the dinner theater. Another nod to Lynn Joslin for the lighting design and to Mark Smedley for sound. Nonetheless, Shankle’s Buddy was the true magic in the show.
In a “Quick 5” interview in this publication, Jeffrey Shankle credited Toby Orenstein for his many character portrayals. “She alway pushed me to be my best, to dig deeper, and find more truth, and to always ‘tell the story,’’’ he told this reporter.
The story is simple and familiar. An infant was found in Santa’s bag and is raised by his elves who teach Buddy their trade of making toys. Sometime in his 30s, Santa tells Buddy he is human. Buddy then travels to Manhattan to meet his biological father, Walter Hobbs. David Bosley-Reynolds plays the nasty, clueless corporate boss at a publishing house with grit and grumpiness that first brought boos from the audience and then, later, cheers when he realizes the importance of family over work.
Walter’s young son, Michael (Noah Frieman), wowed with his vocal rendition of “I Believe in You,” a duet with his stage mom, Emily Hobbs, beautifully played by veteran Toby’s star, Janine Sunday (also credited as Co-Costume Coordinator with Sarah King). The entire cast is terrific, but still a few are even more so.
Vince Gover stood out in his comedic roles as Chadwick and a Fake Santa, and Anwar Thomas as the Macy’s Manager caught my eye with his superb dance technique. MaryKate Brouillet once again sings with passionate projection as Buddy’s girlfriend, Jovie, who sings “Never Fall In Love (With an Elf).” Still it was David James (our server with a smile) who proved once again that a Helen Hayes nomination is deserved for his Scrooge-like portrayal of Mr. Greenway, the CEO who almost ruins his employees’ holiday.
Since music is such a huge part of this production, I would be remiss not to congratulate Conductor (and at the keyboard), Ross Scott Rawlings, yet another treasure at Toby’s. Mark Minnick adds his skillful direction and choreography. Here’s a guy who keeps the cast moving with purpose and zest. Bravo to the live orchestra that keep the dancers on their toes!
My only complaint? Robert Biedermann (who welcomes the audience and warms up the crowd in a pre-show gig) announced the entire run is sold-out. Subscriptions for the 2026 season are now on sale but selling fast. The best bet is to call for cancellations. It would be a shame to miss this holiday gift.
Running Time: Two hours and 30 minute with a 20-minute intermission.
”Elf The Musical” runs through January 4, 2026 at Toby’s Dinner Theatre, 5900 Symphony Woods Road, Columbia, MD 21044. For more information and to purchase tickets, call the Box Office 410-730-8311 to see if there are any cancellations. Monday-Saturday: 10 am-8 pm; Sunday: 10 am-7 pm.
