KABIR GANDHI IS HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
STORY BY Keith Loria
Kabir Gandhi, who grew up in Duluth and attended Northview High School in Johns Creek and is now appearing in the national tour of Elf The Musical, split his time as a youngster between academics and theatre.
“I would take AP classes, have rehearsal after school and dance after that, so it was a pretty packed schedule,” he said. “I’m very fortunate for where I grew up and the influences in my life—especially Mrs. [Elizabeth] Lake, who was my high school theatre teacher and encouraged me to go that route.”
It was back in fourth grade when it was his mother doing the encouraging, seeing he was bored and suggesting he should audition for a show. He loved it and never looked back.
“My love for it was cultivated early—it’s so special and unique,” Gandhi
Elf North American Tour Company, 2025.
Photo by Evan Zimmerman for Murphymade.
said. “It’s the only thing I can see myself doing, in a very beautiful way.”
A JOYOUS SHOW
After graduating from Indiana University with a degree in musical theatre and a minor in business, Gandhi did some regional shows, performed for Disney Cruise Line and was cast as Kevin G in the national tour of Mean Girls, which he completed this summer.
“As an Indian-American actor, there aren’t a lot of us on stage,” Gandhi said. “It’s fun to show that this is an attainable career path for people of all backgrounds.”
It wasn’t long after Mean Girls ended that Gandhi was booked for his second national tour—this time for Elf.
“We were auditioning for the show this summer—it was like Christmas in July, but actually June, and held rounds in New York City,” he said. “I submitted a self-tape while I was doing Mean Girls and they asked me to come dance in person. A few rounds of dancing, a few rounds of singing and then they made a cast list.”
DREAMS AND BELIEVING
Being such a big fan of the movie, Gandhi was thrilled to be part of such a joyous show, and it was a musical he was well familiar with having done it regionally earlier in his career.
“It’s about Christmas and the holidays, but also about love, family, dreams and believing,” he said, and admits it sometimes feels stranger to be performing in the fall months. “I didn’t grow up celebrating Christmas religiously, but it was always the best time with my family. We had a tree and exchanged presents. The holidays hold a special place in my heart. I love them, and I feel ready for them.”
In Elf, Gandhi is part of the ensemble, singing and dancing throughout the show, including playing a New Yorker, a Macy’s employee, an office worker named Chadwick and a few other roles.
“I won’t spoil the magic, but we’re tap dancing, we have candy canes, we might be jump-roping with tinsel—and so much more,” he said. “We’re just theatre kids who grew up and are bringing Christmas cheer around the country. It’s sweet and resonates with audiences and is really a fun time.”
CHRISTMAS IN ATLANTA
This marks the first time that Gandhi will have performed on the Fox
Kabir Gandhi
stage, and he’s excited to see friends and family members who are coming out to the show. Plus, with the tour being in Atlanta in December, he’s thrilled to be home with his family for the holiday season.
Between the cruise and the two national tours, Gandhi has been on the road for close to two years and he said he feels there’s something special about bringing a Broadway-level quality to towns everywhere.
“I vividly remember seeing Finding Neverland at the Fox when I was younger and thinking, ‘Wait—this is what I want to do,’ so this is a full-circle moment for me,” he said. “Traveling the country for work is truly unique.”
While Gandhi is home, his former elementary school is doing Aladdin, so he plans on seeing the show and talking with some future thespians.
“Since I started doing theatre, my mom—who teaches at the school— has helped with productions,” he said. “I always stop by and see whatever rehearsals they’re doing when I’m in town. I’ll fly in Dec. 15, hopefully catch that show and see my mom’s work. I’ll visit the school where I started performing, and the next day I’ll perform at the Fox.”
And for those who love the movie as much as he does, he promises all the best scenes and memorable lines are included.
“If you love the movie, you’ll love this,” he said. “You get the movie plus beautiful singing and a big spectacle. There’s a lot of magic in this production.”
Elf North American Tour Company, 2025.
Photo by Evan Zimmerman for Murphymade.
Temple Live Entertainment North America and Crossroads Live North America present
Book by
Music by Lyrics by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin Matthew Sklar Chad Beguelin
Based on the New Line Cinema film written by David Berrenbaum
Starring
Jack Ducat Felicia Martis Jeff Brooks
Yara Martin Ryan Duck Camden Kwok
Andrew Hendrick Katelyn Lauria Darius J. Manuel
With
Connor Barton Calista Case Derick Donato Adam Furgal Kabir Gandhi Tanner Gleeson
Patrick Johnson Vanessa Mitchell Clark Anton Rulon Emma Sucato Mikayla Thrasher Alysia Vastardis Annie Wogisch Keila Sue Wong
Scenic & Costume Design
Lighting Design Sound Design Video Design Adapted from the Original by Patrick Woodruffe
Gareth Owen Ian William Galloway Tim Goodchild & Mesmer Studios
Orchestrations
Dance Arrangements
Vocal Arrangements US Music Supverisor Doug Besterman David Chase Phil Reno Nate Patten
Hair & Wig Design
Casting
Music Coordinator Production Consultant Sam Cox for ARC Talitha Fehr Stuart Tucker
Samuel James Wigs Ltd Jarrett Reiche
Music Director Production Stage Manager Company Manager Charlie Yokom Jess Levine Kathy Crawford-Hawkins
Tour Management Production Manager General Manager Executive Producer
Crossroads Live Gregg Damanti Andrew Terlizzi Kori Prior North America
Tour Booking Direction
Tour Marketing & Press
Social Media Bond Theatrical Allied Global Marketing Think Tank
Direction Recreated by
Choreography Recreated by Dave Solomon Richard J. Hinds
Musical Supervisor, Additonal Arrangements & Orchestrations Alan Williams
Choreography by Liam Steel
Directed by Philip Wm. McKinley
CAST
Santa Claus ............................................................................................... ANDREW HENDRICK
Mrs. Claus ..................................................................................................... ALYSIA VASTARDIS
Buddy JACK DUCAT
Charlie KABIR GANDHI
Tiara ..........................................................................................................................CALISTA CASE
Hot Dog Vendor ........................................................................................ DARIUS J. MANUEL
Walter Hobbs JEFF BROOKS
Sam KEILA SUE WONG
Matthews ....................................................................................................... TANNER GLEESON
Chadwick ............................................................................................................... KABIR GANDHI
Emily Hobbs YARA MARTIN
Michael Hobbs RYAN DUCK, CAMDEN KWOK
Deb ..................................................................................................................... KATELYN LAURIA
Saleswoman ................................................................................................ ALYSIA VASTARDIS
Store Manager DARIUS J. MANUEL
Jovie FELICIA MARTIS
Fake Santa ........................................................................................................... ADAM FURGAL
Little Boy ................................................................................. RYAN DUCK, CAMDEN KWOK
Policemen KABIR GANDHI, TANNER GLEESON
Mr. Greenway ANDREW HENDRICK
Charlotte Dennon ................................................................................... MIKAYLA THRASHER
Ensemble ................................ CONNOR BARTON, CALISTA CASE, DERICK DONATO, ADAM FURGAL, KABIR GANDHI, TANNER GLEESON, PATRICK JOHNSON, VANESSA MITCHELL, EMMA SUCATO, MIKAYLA THRASHER, ALYSIA VASTARDIS, KEILA SUE WONG
UNDERSTUDIES
Understudies are in alphabetical order and never substitute for the listed performers unless a specific announcement is made at the time of the appearance.
For Santa/Mr. Greenway—CONNOR BARTON, DARIUS J. MANUEL; for Buddy—TANNER GLEESON, PATRICK JOHNSON; for Store Manager/Hot Dog Vendor—KABIR GANDHI, PATRICK JOHNSON; for Walter—ADAM FURGAL, ANDREW HENDRICK; for Emily—KATELYN LAURIA, MIKAYLA THRASHER; for Deb—VANESSA MITCHELL, EMMA SUCATO; for Jovie—CALISTA CASE, ALYSIA VASTARDIS.
SWINGS
DERICK DONATO, VANESSA MITCHELL, CLARK ANTON RULON, ANNIE WOGISCH
Dance Captain—ANNIE WOGISCH
Assistant Dance Captain—CLARK ANTON RULON
The use of any recording device, either audio or video, and the taking of photographs, either with or without flash, is strictly prohibited. Please turn off all electronic devices such as cellular phones, beepers and watches
CONNOR BARTON
CALISTA CASE
DERICK DONATO
ADAM FURGAL
KABIR GANDHI
MIKAYLA THRASHER
VASTARDIS ANNIE WOGISCH KEILA SUE WONG
TANNER GLEESON PATRICK JOHNSON
VANESSA MITCHELL
CLARK ANTON RULON EMMA SUCATO
JACK DUCAT
FELICIA MARTIS
JEFF BROOKS
YARA MARTIN
RYAN DUCK
CAMDEN KWOK
ANDREW HENDRICK
KATELYN LAURIA
DARIUS J. MANUEL
Overture
WHO’S WHO in the CAST
JACK DUCAT (Buddy) is beyond excited to be making his national tour debut! Select regional: Texas Shakespeare Festival, Eclipse Theatre, San Antonio Broadway Theatre and Short North Stage. Jack would like to thank his family, Grey Henson and HCKR. B.F.A. Carnegie Mellon University.
FELICIA MARTIS (Jovie) is thrilled to be spreading Christmas cheer this holiday season! National tours: Ain’t Too Proud Regional: Hairspray (Dynamite), Escape to Margaritaville (Rachel), Beautiful (Little Eva). Thank you to her family, friends and her amazing agent at FSE! feliciamartis. com. @fmartis.
JEFF BROOKS (Walter Hobbs). National tours: Dear Evan Hansen (Larry), Chicago (Billy Flynn), A Bronx Tale (Sonny), Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music, Beauty and the Beast (Gaston), Oklahoma!, Bullets Over Broadway (Cheech). Guest star on Netlix’s “The Watcher.” “Thanks to ATB and my family, especially Lauren.”
YARA MARTIN (Emily Hobbs). Regional: Sally Bowles in Cabaret, Natalie in All Shook Up, Heathers, Carrie, Grease, The Buddy Holly Story. TV: “Found,” “Murdaugh Murders.” Yara studied at Circle in the Square Theatre School. “Thanks to my husband and my dog. Gleðileg jól!” @yaramartinofficial.
RYAN DUCK (Michael Hobbs/Little Boy) is thrilled to make his Broadway tour debut! Ten regional credits, most recently Anything Goes (Billy Crocker). Thanks to the Elf team, Arc Casting, Landrum Arts, Antonia, Taylor, Gabe, NTPA, Mommy, Daddy, Mackenzie, family and friends! IG: @ryanduck.official.
CAMDEN KWOK (Michael Hobbs/ Little Boy). NYC native, age 9, excited for his second Broadway national tour! Previous stage roles include Peter Pan (Michael Darling) and film/ TV appearances in “Good Sex,” “Only Murders…” and more. Grateful to Maxed Management, family and friends! IG: @ camdenkwok.
ANDREW HENDRICK (Santa Claus/Mr. Greenway). Credits: Come From Away, Fiddler on the Roof, Kinky Boots, Bullets Over Broadway, Jekyll & Hyde. Andrew is
a co-producer of the hit musical Be More Chill (Broadway and West End). “For mom, my biggest fan.” Insta: @andrewbhendrick.
KATELYN LAURIA (Deb) is thrilled to make her national tour debut. Favorite stage credits include Come From Away (Bonnie), Frozen (Olaf u/s), Escape to Margaritaville (Tammy), Mamma Mia! (Rosie) and Sister Act (Sister Mary Patrick). She thanks her family and friends for their support. @klauria15.
DARIUS J. MANUEL (Store Manager/ Hot Dog Vendor). [he/they]. Revolutiondriven creative. National tours: Hadestown, Tina The Musical, Elf (2016). Regional favorites: Sister Act (Curtis), S4NW (Man 1), Memphis (Gator), Tarzan (Terk). Remy Award and NSAL Awardwinner in Drama. B.F.A. musical theater (UArts). Thanks to HKA. grow. @legallydarius.
CALISTA CASE (Ensemble) is a Kentucky-born actor and recent graduate of NYU Tisch. Credits: Laurey in Oklahoma! (Playhouse Stage), Meg in Damn Yankees, Judy in Balm in Gilead (NYU). Endless thanks to Casting By Arc, Gregory Osborne and her incredible support system.
CONNOR BARTON (Ensemble) [he/ they]. National tour debut! Regional highlights: A Chorus Line (TBTS), Footloose (Engeman), Tootsie (NSMT) and Tuacahn. B.F.A., Nazareth University. Major thanks to Ricky, Take 3 Talent and ARC. Endless love to Mom, Dad, Claire, Chloe and KARR. @connor.barton.
DERICK DONATO (Onstage Swing). National tour debut! Favorite credits include On Your Feet! (Male Swing) and The Little Mermaid (Prince Eric). B.F.A., Elon University. Many thanks to the creative team, producers, ARC Casting and his team at FSE. Endless love to his family and friends! @derickgdonato.
ADAM FURGAL (Ensemble) is thrilled to be making his national tour debut! B.F.A. MT from Montclair State University. Endless thanks to his family, friends and mentors for their support. @adamfurgal.
KABIR GANDHI (Ensemble) is excited to spread some holiday cheer! National tour: Mean Girls (Kevin G). Select regional: Rock of Ages (Franz, MTW), The Little Mermaid (Chef Louis, Sierra Rep). Endlessly grateful for Pantera/ Murphy the Agency, IUMT, Mom, Dad and Juju! @kabir.gandhi.
PATRICK JOHNSON (Ensemble) is ecstatic to be making his national tour debut! A recent graduate of Chicago College of Performing Arts, Patrick is proud to call Chicago home. Most recently, Prince Eric in The Little Mermaid at Drury Lane. XOXO to all! @patrickj.johnson.
VANESSA MITCHELL (Onstage Swing). Tours: We Will Rock You, 42nd Street, Monty Python’s Spamalot. Regional theater: The Gateway Playhouse, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, Ogunquit Playhouse. Film: Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman, Hallmark’s A Winter Getaway. Proud AMDA NY alum! IG: @vanessamitchell_7.
CLARK ANTON RULON (Swing). National tour debut! Regional: The Rev, The Little Theatre on the Square. Cruises: Hairspray, Grease (Royal Caribbean). Endless love to his incredible parents and Sophie for being his biggest supporters. Proud IAMT alum. Enjoy the show!
EMMA SUCATO (Ensemble) is overjoyed to make her national tour debut! Syracuse University alum. Regional: Syracuse Stage, Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival and Glimmerglass Festival. Endless thanks to her mentors, ARC and the Elf team. All her love to family and friends. Happy holidays! @emmasucato.
MIKAYLA THRASHER (Ensemble). Regional: My Best Friend’s Wedding (world premiere, Ogunquit Playhouse), The Marvelous Wonderettes (St. Vincent Theatre), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (McCoy Rigby Entertainment). Select: Steel Magnolias (Shelby), Cabaret (Helga). Proud Wagner College theater alum! “Grateful to my family and ATB Talent.” @mikaylathrasher.
TANNER GLEESON (Ensemble) is ecstatic to be making his national tour debut! Recent credits: Footloose at The Engeman (Ren), Saturday Night Fever at Timberlake Playhouse (Tony) and Frozen aboard Disney Cruise Line
(Hans). He thanks everyone for their unwavering support everyday! @tannergleeson. tannergleesonactor.com.
ALYSIA VASTARDIS (Ensemble) is excited to spread cheer for the third time after doing Elf national tour 2024 and Ogunquit Playhouse! Recent credits: High Society (Ogunquit), Barbara in Beetlejuice (NCL) and NSMT. B.F.A. MT PPU. Thank you to ARC, MTA, her family, friends and Matt!
ANNIE WOGISCH (Swing). National tour debut! Originally from N.J., Annie is excited to spread Christmas cheer across the U.S. this holiday season! “Biggest thanks to my Mom, Dad, family, friends, agents at ATB, ARC Casting, Crossroads Live and the entire Elf team!” @anniewogisch.
KEILA SUE WONG (Ensemble). National tour debut! Credits include Rita in White Christmas, Ethel in 42nd Street (The Gateway) and the best summer ever at the Arrow Rock Lyceum. TU B.F.A. MT. <3 to her family and friends—おかげさま で. @keilalaalaaa.
THOMAS MEEHAN (1929–2017) (Book). Three-time Tony Award-winning book writer for the Broadway musicals Annie, The Producers and Hairspray. He collaborated on many Broadway musicals, including I Remember Mama; Ain’t Broadway Grand: Bombay Dreams; Cry-Baby; Young Frankenstein; Chaplin: Rocky; Dave, The Musical; and the OffBroadway musicals Annie Warbucks, Death Takes a Holiday and The Lady Eve. He was a long-time contributor of humor pieces to The New Yorker. He co-authored the libretto of the opera 1984 and was an Emmy Award-winning TV comedy writer and collaborator on screenplays, including Mel Brooks’ Spaceballs, To Be or Not to Be, The Producers and One Magic Christmas. He was a member of the Council of the Dramatists Guild.
BOB MARTIN (Book) works as a writer, performer and producer in theatre, television and film internationally. He is co-creator of the beloved musicals The Drowsy Chaperone, Elf and The Prom, which have garnered critical acclaim and perennial productions worldwide. Mr. Martin has won a number of awards for his work, including a Theatre World Award, Drama Desk and a Tony. Next year his musical blockbusters Boop! and Smash will open on Broadway and
Millions will premiere at the Alliance Theatre. Mr. Martin is co-creator of cult favorite television series “Slings & Arrows” and more.
MATTHEW SKLAR (Music). Two-time Tony and Emmy award-nominated composer of The Prom (Tony nomination for Best Original Score; winner of the Dramatists Guild Frederick Loewe Award for Dramatic Composition; winner of the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Musical), Elf The Musical and The Wedding Singer (Tony nomination for Best Original Score). Select film/TV: The Prom (Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy), “Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas” (Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Music Direction), “Sesame Street,” “American Masters.” Honors include the ASCAP Foundation Richard Rodgers New Horizons Award, the Gilman/Gonzalez-Falla Theatre Award and the Jonathan Larson Award.
CHAD BEGUELIN (Lyrics) is a six-time Tony Award nominee. His Broadway works include The Prom (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award nomination for Best Book and Outstanding Lyrics), Disney’s Aladdin (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award nomination for Best Book and Outstanding Lyrics) and The Wedding Singer (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Lyrics). His debut novel Showmance is available wherever books are sold. Much love to his husband Tom.
PHILIP WM. MCKINLEY (Director). New York: Elf The Musical; The Boy From Oz with Hugh Jackman; Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark; The Most Happy Fella (NYCO); Ella, a biographical musical with Anna Deavere Smith (workshop). London: Elf The Musical (2022, 2023, 2025), Ben Hur Live (02 Arena). OffBroadway: Zombie Prom, THWAK Salzburg Music Festival: West Side Story with Cecilia Bartoli and Gustavo Dudamel conducting. Tokyo: The Three Musketeers; Mozart, l’opéra rock; The Boy From Oz; Chanel. Edinburgh Fringe Festival: That Woman! Wallis Simpson Duchess of Windsor (Pick of the Fringe). Development: The Elaborate Truth, a verbal-sparring dramedy with NY Times
international best-selling author Gregg Hurwitz.
LIAM STEEL (Choreographer) is a British director and choreographer whose productions have earned three Olivier Awards and three additional nominations, including one for Best Choreographer for Company, the recent Broadway transfer of which won five Tonys, including Best Musical Revival. Prestigious collaborations include the RSC, National Theatre, Royal Court, Royal Opera House, Shakespeare’s Globe and 12 productions for Regents Park Open Air Theatre. He also created all the musical staging for the Oscarwinning film musical Les Misérables
DAVE SOLOMON (Restager). Director: Tootsie (U.S. national tour and Japan), Pump Up the Volume (L.A.). Upcoming: Already Perfect (London). Associate director/Broadway: Elf, Tootsie, Side Show, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, 9 to 5, Pal Joey, Sunday in the Park with George, The Ritz, Curtains. Film/ TV: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Mr. Holmes,“A Christmas Story Live.” Also a writer/filmmaker/producer/educator: dave-solomon.com.
RICHARD J. HINDS (Associate Choreographer). Broadway/West End credits: Titanique, Elf, Company, Come From Away, Disney’s Newsies, Jekyll & Hyde and Il Divo: A Musical Affair National/international tours: 9 to 5 and Disney’s High School Musical. Regional credits include The Muny, Ogunquit Playhouse, The REV Theatre Company, Flat Rock Playhouse, Kansas City Repertory Theatre, Pittsburgh CLO, La Mirada Theatre and North Shore Music Theatre. @richardjhinds.
ELYN COLLIER (Assistant Director). Regional associate: Come From Away (Ogunquit, La Mirada), Tootsie (NSMT), Mary Poppins (Berkshire Theatre Group), eight shows at (Pittsburgh CLO). Regional choreography: Little Shop of Horrors (Art Farm); Something Rotten!, Spamalot (both BWW Best Dance Production). Film: The Hiding Place. Faculty Steps on Broadway and Broadway Dance Center. elyncollier. com. @elyncollier.
ALEC MANN (Assistant Choreographer) was most recently the resort-wide choreographer for SkyWorlds Theme Park at Resorts World Genting, Malaysia. He has been the choreographer for Cirque
d’Hiver Bouglione in Paris for the past three seasons. Other notable credits include Disneyland Paris, Rabanne, Huda Beauty, Kylie Minogue, Wereldkerst Circus and Printemps Haussmann.
TIM GOODCHILD (Original Scenic and Costume Design). International award-winning designer for stage, television, film and opera. Having designed over 135 productions for London’s West End. He is the recipient of three Laurence Olivier awards and three nominees. He designed “A Simple Man” for BBC2 which won a BAFTA. Queen’s We Will Rock You, The Nutcracker and The Little Prince film are but a few.
PATRICK WOODROFFE (Lighting Design). For over 40 years, Patrick Woodroffe has created the lighting for musical theatre, concerts, operas, ballet, architecture and special events. Artists include ABBA, Adele, Elton John, Bob Dylan, Donna Summer, Lady Gaga, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and the Rolling Stones. In musical theater, he has lit productions of Bat Out of Hell, West Side Story, Mamma Mia! The Party, Jesus Christ Superstar, Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera. He lit the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the Olympic Games in London.
GARETH OWEN (Sound Design). Broadway highlights: Hell’s Kitchen (Tony nom.), Back to the Future, & Juliet (Tony nom.), MJ (Tony win), Bad Cinderella, Diana, Summer, Come From Away, A Bronx Tale, End of the Rainbow (Tony nom.), A Little Night Music (Tony nom.). West End highlights: Starlight Express, MJ, Back to the Future (Olivier nom.), Prince of Egypt, Come From Away (Olivier win), Bat Out of Hell (Olivier nom.), Memphis (Olivier win), Top Hat (Olivier nom.), Merrily We Roll Along (Olivier win). garethowensound. com. @garethowensound.
SAM COX (Hair and Wig Design). Theatre includes Cabaret; Six the Musical; Sister Act; Kiss Me, Kate; The Baker’s Wife; Mrs. Doubtfire; Moulin Rouge!; Bedknobs and Broomsticks; Evita; The Cher Show; The Osmonds; White Christmas; and Curtains (Broadway, West End, U.K. tours). Film and television include The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Wicked, Paddington in Peru, Snow White, Wicked Little Letters, “Loki,” “Dr. Who,” “Downton Abbey,” James Bond: No Time to Die, Death on the Nile and Cruella
ALAN WILLIAMS (Music Supervisor, Additional Arrangements & Orchestrations). Olivier and Whatsonstage award-winner. Broadway: Sunset Blvd., Funny Girl. London/UK: Sunset Boulevard, Crazy for You, Elf, Hairspray, Evita, The Boy in the Dress, Big Fish, Aladdin, Funny Girl, A Damsel in Distress, Assassins, Urinetown, The Commitments, A Chorus Line, Shrek, … Spelling Bee, Passion, Spamalot. Albums: Sunset Boulevard, The Boy in the Dress, Funny Girl and Sister Act. alanwilliamsmd. com.
DOUG BESTERMAN (Orchestration). Three-time Tony Award-winner. Broadway: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Anastasia, A Bronx Tale, It Shoulda Been You, Bullets Over Broadway, Rocky, On a Clear Day, Sister Act, How to Succeed…, Young Frankenstein, Tarzan, Dracula, Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Producers, Seussical, The Music Man, Fosse, Big, Damn Yankees. Film/TV: “Schmigadoon,” Mary Poppins Returns, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, Mulan, Chicago
DAVID CHASE (Dance Arrangements). Music director, supervisor and/or arranger for 40-plus Broadway musicals. TV includes “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “Schmigadoon,” “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,” “The Sound of Music Live!” and “Étoile.” Also: Boston Pops, Radio City, choral music for Judith Clurman/Hal Leonard. Nominated for two Emmys, a Grammy and an Olivier.
NATE PATTEN (Associate Music Supervision). In addition to Elf, Nate has conducted two other Sklar/ Beguelin scores: The Prom (OBC) and The Wedding Singer (first national tour). Select Broadway: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Be More Chill, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical Tours: Flashdance, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Other conducting credits: The Kennedy Center and MSG. Nate is also an accomplished director and writer. Thank you to Matthew Sklar. @natepatten.
ALLIED GLOBAL MARKETING (Tour Marketing & Press) is a full-service integrated marketing agency working with the world’s largest entertainment, consumer, and lifestyle brands, including 85+ Broadway shows over three decades. Current tours: Back to the Future, Beetlejuice, The Book of Mormon Hadestown, Kinky Boots, Mamma Mia!,
Mrs. Doubtfire, The Notebook, The Outsiders, Some Like It Hot, Suffs, The Twenty-Sided Tavern. Upcoming tours: The Great Gatsby, Operation Mincemeat, Riverdance
BOND THEATRICAL (Tour Booking) is an independently owned theatrical booking, marketing and publicity company representing award-winning Broadway shows and live entertainment properties. Bond connects artists and audiences by forming strategic, authentic and profitable partnerships between producers and presenters across North America. For a complete list of current projects, please visit bondtheatrical.com.
ARC (Casting). 150+ productions across the globe and 13 Artios Awards for Casting. Broadway/NY past and credits include Othello, Real Women Have Curves, A Wonderful World, Life of Pi, Chicago the Musical, Disney’s The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast, Hadestown, Lost in Yonkers, The Great Comet of 1812, Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, The 39 Steps, Pippin, La Cage aux Folles TV/film: Netflix, 20th Century Fox, NBC, Lionsgate, Disney Channel. West End/U.K.: Hadestown, Thriller Live, Menier Chocolate Factory. Tours: 1776, Hairspray, Waitress, Urinetown, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Finding Neverland, Into the Woods, We Will Rock You. Regional: A.R.T., Berkeley Rep, Alley, Bay Street, Goodspeed, Hollywood Bowl, McCarter, Signature. ARC. Part of RWS Global. castingbyarc.com. IG: @castingbyarc.
CHARLIE YOKOM (Music Director) is thrilled to return to Christmastown! Recent: Music director for World’s Greatest Lover at the Edinburgh Fringe. Touring credits include Elf, The Sound of Music, Hairspray and Waitress. Many thanks to Nate, Dave, Ricky, Marissa and the wonderful cast, band and crew! charlieyokom.com.
JESS LEVINE (Production Stage Manager) is so excited to be spreading Christmas cheer across the country with the company of Elf for the second time! Originally from Pittsburgh and a proud graduate of Penn State, favorite credits include the Hairspray national tour; Plano and The Cherry Orchard (Quantum Theatre); and Shantytown (Pittsburgh Playwrights). Many thanks to family and friends for their continued support!
KELSEY HARLOW (Assistant Stage Manager) is very excited to be on her first tour! A recent graduate from Carnegie Mellon University, Kelsey completed her master’s degree in stage and production management in May. Some of her favorite shows that she has worked on are Titanic (Carnegie Mellon), Million Dollar Quartet (Berkshire Theatre Group) and Cats (Utah Festival Opera). Happy Holidays!
KATHY CRAWFORD-HAWKINS (Company Manager) is very excited to be part of the Crossroads team again! Incredibly grateful to her husband and family for their love and support. Thanks to all the folks and shows (Stomp, Walking with Dinosaurs, The Illusionists, Tootsie, Grinch, AMCC, GOAT) that have given her the opportunity to do what she so enjoys!
EMILY MIU (Assistant Company Manager) is usually spending her time as an associate general manager with Crossroads Live North America. Emily is excited to embark on her first national tour. Previous credits include work with Olney Theatre Center and Detroit Public Theatre. Emily is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan.
KORI PRIOR (Executive Producer) is an accomplished executive with more than 20 years of experience in the global theater and entertainment industry. She has served as the executive producer of The Phantom of the Opera international tour as well as multiple Broadway tours, including popular titles such as Annie, Tootsie, The Color Purple and My Fair Lady. She was an executive producer for Elf The Musical on Broadway and spent more than two decades producing and supervising productions around the world for Blue Man Group, where she was instrumental in the development and expansion of the brand on five continents.
TEMPLE LIVE NORTH AMERICA
(Producer). is a producer and promoter of exceptional live events and experiences across multiple entertainment genres, including comedy, exhibitions and classical music. TLE has historically produced a variety of theatrical musicals in the UK and internationally, including Elf The Musical in the West End, on Broadway and on tour; Mamma Mia! The Party in London and Stockholm; the 20th Anniversary tour of Rent The Musical in London and the UK; and The Phantom of the Opera and Cats in Monte Carlo. TLE is part of the Eventim Live International promoter network, which
comprises over 30 partners in 15 countries. temple-live.com.
CROSSROADS LIVE NORTH AMERICA (Producer) brings together some of the world’s top producers of live entertainment, now all under one banner. With offices in London, New York, Washington, D.C., Sydney and Melbourne, its global platform ensures the best-loved titles from Broadway and the West End can be embraced by audiences around the world. Crossroads Live North America, under the leadership of Angela Rowles, is an innovative, full-service theatrical production company delivering the Broadway experience to audiences in North America and beyond. Its 2025–2026 season: Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical, Elf The Musical, Kinky Boots, The Phantom of the Opera (Asia), Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. xroadslive. com/team/na.
INGRID SUTEJ (Producer for Temple Live Entertainment). Producer and pro- moter of hit musicals, classical tours and immersive exhibitions across a three-decade career. Musical theatre credits include Elf the Musical (West End, 2015, 2022, 2023), The Phantom of the Opera (Monte Carlo, 2023), Rent the Musical (U.K. tour, 2016-17), White Christmas (West End, 2014), Jesus Christ Superstar in Concert (London The O2, 2012), Les Misérable in Concert (London The O2, 2010). Co-producer of Mamma Mia! The Party (Stockholm 2017, London 2019) with Björn Ulvaeus of ABBA. Ingrid has also toured the world’s top classical artists for many years, including Cecilia Bartoli, Angela Gheorghiu, Pretty Yende, Anna Netrebko, Rolando Villazón, Bryn Terfel and Lise Davidsen. Founder and CEO of Temple Live Entertainment (temple-live.com).
MIGUEL ESTEBAN (Associate Producer for Temple Live Entertainment) has been associate producer of Elf (West End, 2015, 2022, 2023) and Mamma Mia! The Party! (London, 2019), and producer of Rent (London and U.K. tour, 2016-17) and the opera Norma (European tour, 2016-17). He is general manager of soprano Anna Netrebko and co-founder of the Verbier Festival in Switzerland. Raised in Glendale, CA, by Cuban parents, he is a graduate of the University of Southern California.
SUZI ARKLEY (Commercial & Marketing Director for Temple Live Entertainment) oversees all worldwide commercial, marketing and communication aspects of Temple Entertainment Live. She has over two decades of experience working across the live entertainment sector, including most recently on Elf the Musical (West End 2022-23), The Phantom of the Opera (Monte Carlo 2023) and Mamma Mia! The Party (Stockholm 2017 and London 2019). Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, Suzi lives in London with her husband and two daughters.
ANDREW TERLIZZI (General Manager) has spent almost two decades touring productions worldwide before joining Crossroads Live as senior general manager. Highlights of his career include Kinky Boots, Bodyguard The Musical, Priscilla Queen of the Desert and West Side Story. He is a proud graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts.
GREGG DAMANTI (Production Manager) has been lucky enough to spend the past 25 years working in theater. He got his start as a production stage manager at Busch Gardens and later served as production manager for Blue Man Group in New York City. Since joining Crossroads Live in 2018, he’s helped bring shows like On Your Feet! (first national), Cats, Lincoln Center’s My Fair Lady (first national), Pretty Woman, Dear Evan Hansen, Kinky Boots and now Elf to the road. All the love to Jen and Ripley—his support system and favorite people to come home to after every tour.
STAFF FOR ELF THE MUSICAL
For Crossroads Live North America
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Kori Prior
GENERAL MANAGER
Andrew Terlizzi
Associate General Manager Emily Miu
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Gregg Damanti
Assistant Production Manager Suzayn MacKenzie-Roy
COMPANY MANAGER
Kathy Crawford-Hawkins
Assistant Company Manager ............................. Emily Miu
TOUR MARKETING & PRESS
ALLIED GLOBAL MARKETING
Andrew Damer
Jennifer Gallagher Scott Praefke
Jessica Cary Davis Anne Waisanen Adina Hsu Emily Toppen
Maria Bonucchi Amenkha Sembenu Kate Wyman
TOUR BOOKING DIRECTION BOND THEATRICAL bondtheatrical.com
Temah Higgins Mollie Mann DJ Martin
Marc Viscardi Wendy Roberts
Jenny Bates
BOOKING & OPERATIONS
Mary K. Witte Madison St. Amour Laura Rizzo
Jesse Daniels Kolten Bell Jordan Ivezaj
CASTING
Casting by ARC
Duncan Stewart, CSA, Mark Brandon, CSA
Kyle Coker, Patrick Maravilla, Jarrett Reiche Devi Peot, Jaron Cole Ryan Stana, CEO RWS Global Ryan Saab, EVP RWS Global
PRODUCTION STAGE MANAGER JESS LEVINE
Assistant Stage Manager
Kelsey Harlow
Dance Captain .......................................... Annie Wogisch
Assistant Dance Captain Clark Anton Rulon
Associate Costume Designer ........................ Abigail Hahn
Assistant Costume Designers Haley Silver, David Hyman, Courtney Irizarry
Costume Design Coordinator.......................... Devon Horn
Costume PA Andrew Burns, Lucy Boogaerts
Associate Hair & Wig Designer ...........................Liz Printz
Production Carpenter G.E. Simmons Falk
Production Props Matthew Frew
Assistant Production Props .............................. Justin Cox
Drafting Nick Murray
Associate Lighting Designer ....................... Kirk Fitzgerald
Assistant Lighting Designer Paul Vaillancourt
Moving Light Programmer
Projection/Video Programmer ......................
Benji Arringo
Ableton & Keyboard Programmer Daniel Pearson
Copyist ...................................................... James Turner
Music Backline Jonas Productions
Tech Backline Randy Cohen
Rehearsal Pianist ..................................... Michael Ferrara
Skate Coach Chanel Stone
Production Assistant ............................. Jess Romanowski
HEAD CARPENTER .......................... Shawn Riley-Rau
Assistant Carpenter ................................ Preston Speaker
Flyman Nate Lewis
Head Props..................................................Ryan Brooke
Assistant Props Brianna Swanson
Head Electrician Chandler Gray
Assistant Electrician—Video .......................... Jake Gomez
Assistant Electrician—FOH Jenn Kirchner
Head Audio ................................................ Jonah Verdon
Assistant Audio Victoria Ramos
Wardrobe Supervisor Cassidy Berglund
Assistant Wardrobe .......................................... Robyn Gill
Head Hair and Makeup Bridgit Crider
Crew Swing Thomas Clark
Child Manager Wilson Jones
Physical Therapy Company Neurotour
Travel/Housing ......................... Road Rebel Entertainment
Payroll Services Paychex
Insurance Epic Sports & Entertainment
Social Media ................................................... Think Tank
Production Photography Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade
Merchandise Provider ...............................Creative Goods
For
Crossroads
Live North America
Chief Executive Officer ............................... Angela Rowles
Executive Producer Jayna Neagle
Executive Producer .......................................... Kori Prior
Vice President of People Operations Charisse Fontes
Vice President of Finance Brian Jacob
Vice President of Marketing ................. Michael Yuen-Killick
Senior General Manager Andrew Terlizzi
Director of Production .......................... Heather Chockley
Director of Booking and Engagements Tyler Soltis
Production Manager Gregg Damanti
General Manager ............................... Christine Adamczyk
General Manager Deana Marie Kirsch
Engagement Manager............................. Barrett Newman
Associate General Manager Emily Miu
Tour Operations Manager Suzayn MacKenzie-Roy
Assistant Production Manager ...................... Drew Neitzey
Production Accounting Manager Sheila Lewis
Production Accountant .................................Travis Huebel
Staff Accountant Electra Walker
Tour Project Manager Wendy Joy Beckwith
Learn more about Crossroads Live North America and its team: xroadslive.com
For Temple Live Entertainnment North America
Chief Executive Officer ....................................Ingrid Sutej
Chief Operating Office Miguel Esteban
Group Managing Director ................................ Suzi Arkley
Marketing Director Emily Brett
Jackson Miller
Production Electrician ................................... Joel Bulthuis
Assistant Production Electrician Matthew Sallee
Associate Sound Designer Anthony Cuzzo
Production Audio Matt Davis
Production Audio Consultant Scott Kuker
Production Video .......................................... Joel Bulthuis
Assistant Production Video Matthew Sallee
General Manager Amanda Murray for Kindred Partners
For more information visit temple-live.com
CREDITS
Scenery by Great Lakes Studios, Cigar Box Studios, PRG, and TTS Studios. Lighting & video equipment from PRG. Sound equipment by Sound Associates. Rigging by Phoenix
NYC. Trucking by Clark Transfer. Touring Company Lobby Signage by Express Signs in Frederick, MD. Tailoring by Taylor Harrison, Kaitlin Turek, Kaileen Langstone, and Kimberley Wilkes. Buddy executed by Eric Winterling, Inc.
Select Jovie costumes executed by Arel Studio, Inc. Jovie’s shirt executed by Cego Custom Shirt Maker. Millinery executed by Arnold S. Levine, Inc. North Pole Elves and FP Finale Jackets executed by Bethany Joy Costumes, Inc. NP Elf Legs executed by Randy Carfagno Productions. Mrs Hobbs’ Robe and Finale and Deb Finale executed by Vedette Costumes. Santa executed by Fritz Masten. Select Macy’s Elves and Velvet Leggings by SoHarlem, Inc. Select Macy’s Elves executed by Threaded Pine. MP Finale Costumes executed by Siam Costumes International LTD. Custom Belts executed by Sherry Accessories, inc. Iceskate blades by Mio Design NYC.
SPECIAL THANKS
Thank you Tom and Kelli for keeping it to a dull roar next door in studio rehearsal. Also, thank you to Luna, our emotional support dog during technical rehearsals.
Rehearsed at Gibney Center
Technical Venue: Clark State Performing Arts Center 300 S Fountain Ave. Springfield, OH 45506
Please follow us on Facebook, Instagram & TikTok: @elfthemusicaltour
The Director and Choreographer are members of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers, Inc., an independent national labor union.
Backstage and Front of the House Employees are represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (or I.A.T.S.E.).
United Scenic Artists represents the designers and scenic painters for the American Theatre.
The producers wish to thank the Ohio Department of Development for their support in the creation of this production.
THE FOX THEATRE
660 Peachtree Street, N.E.
404.881.2100 • www.foxtheatre.org
STAFF
Allan C. Vella President & C.E.O.
William Renshaw Vice President & C.F.O.
Jamie Vosmeier VP of Sales and Marketing
Rachel Bomeli . . .
. VP of Facility Operations
Lucy Lawler-Freas Director of Programming
Shelly Kleppsattel Booking & Contract Manager
Faustina Brooks Director of Finance
Aly Grubb Director of Sales & Marketing
Ben Dostal Director of Ticketing & Analytics
Leigh Burns Director of Community Partnerships
April Sutton Director of Human Resources
Scott Christopher Sr. Dir of Facility Operations
Nick Vecchio Sr. Dir. of Hospitality & Merch
Steve Moore Director of Special Events
Lisa Marie Malovoz Director of Production
Gary Hardaway Head Carpenter
Scott Hardin Head Props/Projectionist
Rodney Amos Head Audio
Antonio Tiggs Head Flyman
Wendy Derrick Asst. House
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Robyn Barkin Chair
Mark C. Adams, Latanza Adjei, Renee Dye, Ryan Halpern, Larry Hanson, Doug Hooker, David Hutchison, Dr. Richard Kannwischer, Barbara King, Lauren Koontz, Sonjui Kumar, Celena Matlock, Jay Myers, Glen Romm, Ivan Shammas, Howard Smith, Scott Taylor
EMERITUS MEMBERS
Tony Aeck, Clara Axam, John Busby Jr., Beauchamp Carr, Rodney Cook, Ada Lee Correll, Richard Courts, Keith O. Cowan, Jere Drummond, Richard Flinn, Julia Grumbles, Sheffield Hale, John Holder, Walt Huntley, Edward Hutchison, Craig Jones, Steve Koonin, Charles Lawson, Starr Moore, Joseph Myers, Edgar Neiss, Carl Patton, Sylvia Russell, Nancy Simms, Preston Stevens Jr., Clyde Tuggle, Edward L. White, Carolyn Wills
THE THEATER
A fully restored 1929 “movie palace,” the Fox Theatre, with 4,665 seats, is a multipurpose facility, housing Broadway shows, ballets, comedies, concerts, movies and private corporate events.
PRIVATE EVENTS
The Fox Theatre has three private rental spaces, accommodating 25 to 1,200 guests. Our Egyptian Ballroom and Grand Salon are beautifully decorated and can be set up to your specifications. The Landmarks Lounge is adjacent to the lobby and is perfect for a small pre-show and intermission event. To book your “Fabulous Fox” evening, please call 404-881-2057 or send an email to affairsatthefox@affairs.com
TICKET OFFICE HOURS
Ticket Office hours are Friday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM and Saturday 10:00 AM-3:00 PM. The ticket office will open approximately 3 hours before doors on show days. Doors to the Fox Theatre open one hour before showtime. Tickets for all performances may be purchased online at www.foxtheatre.org, or by calling 855-285-8499, or visiting the Fox Theatre Ticket Office during the times listed above.
GROUP SALES
The Fox Theatre Group Sales Department offers discounts to groups for most Broadway shows. It is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Call 404-881-2000 or email sales@foxtheatre.org
CONCESSIONS
Concession stands are located in the Spanish Room, main lobby and on the mezzanine lobby level.
RESTROOMS
Restrooms are located off the main lobby (downstairs), mezzanine lobby levels and the Gallery level. Accessible restroom facilities are in the Spanish Room; accessible/ Family restrooms are located through the office door in the main lobby.
TOURS
Tour schedules vary – please visit the Fox Theatre website for updated information regarding tour dates at www.foxtheatre.org
LOST AND FOUND
Lost and found items are turned in to the event staff’s office. To check on lost items, please call 404-881-2119 Lost and found items will be retained for 30 days.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
In the event of an emergency, and for your safety, please follow the directions provided by the Fox Theatre staff.
SMOKING
In accordance with the Fulton County Clean Air Ordinance, the Fox Theatre is a smoke-free facility. Smoking is only permitted in designated areas.
ABOUT ACCESSIBILITY
The Fox Theatre strives to make events accessible to all guests. If you need assistance during your visit please ask for one of our Event Staff members. The Fox Theatre offers the use of wheelchairs, listening devices and booster seats at no additional charge. Our ambassadors will assist you to special restroom accommodations. Note: Steep steps lead to all seats on the upper levels. For assistance or more information, please call the Event Staff’s office at: 404-881-2100
ACCESSIBLE TICKETS
To purchase accessible seating at the Fox Theatre please call 404-881-2016 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. MondayFriday or 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. A Ticket Office associate will be happy to help you. Ticket buyers may also visit the ticketing site at www.foxtheatre.org.
ELEVATORS
Elevators are at the north end of each lobby and are available during all performances. They make it possible to access each lobby without using the stairs. Patrons should be aware that access to upper seating areas do involve stairs.
PARKING
Parking is available within a four-block radius in all directions of the Fox Theatre. Advanced reserved parking is available for sale at the Fox Ticket Office or by calling 855-285-8499. The Fox Theatre assumes no responsibility for vehicles parked in any of the privately owned lots operating in the Fox Theatre district.
PERFORMANCE NOTES
All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket to be admitted to the theater. Not all events are suitable for children. Infants will not be admitted to adult programs/ performances. Parents will be asked to remove children who create a disturbance.
• Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of management in conjunction with the wishes of the producers.
• Please turn off all pagers and cellphones before each performance.
• Camera and recording devices are strictly prohibited. Backstage employees are represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (I.A.T.S.E.)
MARQUEE CLUB PRESENTED BY LEXUS
A stunning 10,000 square feet of exclusive space located on the northeast side of the theatre, the Marquee Club has access to the fabulous rooftop terrace overlooking the iconic Fox marquee and Peachtree Street. The Marquee Club is the perfect way to elevate your experience at the Fox. The club can be accessed through one of the annual membership options or on a per-event basis, as space allows. Entry to the club must accompany a ticket to the proceeding performance. For more information on club access, visit foxtheatre.org/MarqueeClub or call 404-881-2024
