With the festive season fast approaching, NETheatre York is bringing a beloved holiday classic to life with their production of Elf: The Musical, based on the 2003 film of the same name starring Will Ferrell. 

Elf tells the hilarious story of Buddy, a human raised as an elf at the North Pole after accidentally crawling into Santa's bag as a baby. When his size and lack of toy-making skills reveal the truth, Buddy sets off for New York City to find his real father. However, he faces challenges as his father is on the naughty list and his stepbrother doesn’t believe in Santa, but Buddy is determined to bring Christmas spirit back to his new family and the city.

In NETheatre York’s production, taking on the iconic role of Buddy the Elf is Finlay Butler, who sat down with us to talk about his experience in the upcoming show, what it’s like to embody such a high-energy character, and even a glimpse into his own Christmas traditions.

For those familiar with the film or the musical, Buddy’s energy is infectious, and Finlay is clearly ready to channel that into his performance. “My favourite thing about Buddy,” he explains, “is how full of life he is. He’s got this endless passion, Christmas cheer, and most importantly, he’s full of love. He’s a big kid at heart, and that joy just pours out of him.” Finlay’s excitement is unmistakable, and it’s clear that he has a real affection for the character he’s about to bring to life.

Preparing to play such a high-energy character, though, isn’t always as easy as Buddy makes it look. When asked how he gets ready for the role, Finlay reveals that it takes quite a bit of preparation. "I make sure I’m all warmed up and ready to go before rehearsal," he says. "Buddy’s got limitless energy, so I make sure I’m getting lots of rest and drinking lots of water. Hydration is key!"

As for the show itself, Finlay gave us a tease from one of his favourite moments so far in rehearsals. "The opening of the show is just perfect. Our ensemble cast are just amazing, and it really sets the tone for the rest of the show fantastically. I obviously can’t give too much away but you can be assured it’s going to be a treat.”

Given the Christmas spirit that Elf: The Musical embodies, we had to ask about Finlay’s own Christmas traditions. “In my family, we love to play lots of games after Christmas dinner!” he shares. “It’s something we all look forward to. It’s a time when everyone comes together, laughing and having fun.”

As Finlay prepares to step into Buddy’s bright yellow tights, it’s clear he’s ready to deliver a performance packed with festive joy. NETheatre York’s Elf: The Musical promises to be a treat for families looking to get into the Christmas spirit, and if Finlay’s enthusiasm is anything to go by, audiences are in for a treat full of laughter, love and plenty of Christmas cheer. 

See Finlay Butler as Buddy in Elf: The Musical, running Tuesday 26 - Saturday 30 November.

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