Elf – The Musical at Thelma Gaylord Performing Arts Theatre

Following a record-breaking season on Broadway last year, ‘the ultimate Christmas show’ (Smooth FM) returns to spread festive cheer at the esteemed Thelma Gaylord Performing Arts Theatre from 18-24 November 2025.

Based on the favorite 2003 Christmas movie which stars Will Ferrell, the family favorite musical features a book by Tony Award-winners Thomas Meehan (“Annie,” “The Producers,” and “Hairspray”) and Bob Martin (“The Drowsy Chaperone”), with catchy songs by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin (“The Wedding Singer”). This record-breaking festive show also stars Tony Award nominee Grey Henson (“Shucked”).

Join Buddy the Elf as he leaves the North Pole in search of his family in New York City. This is every Buddy’s favorite holiday classic, and the perfect festive show for people of all ages. Don’t miss out – book your tickets today!

Elf – The Musical Tickets

“Elf left this Grinch-inclined critic with expectations pleasantly confounded, and full of seasonal good cheer” – Fiona Mountford for The Evening Standard

Elf The Musical at Thelma Gaylord Performing Arts Theatre

Elf – The Musical is playing at the Thelma Gaylord Performing Arts Theatre from 18-24 November 2025. Located in Oklahoma City, the venue comfortably seats 2,477 theatergoers. This world-class performance space features a stunning proscenium stage, perfect for a holiday classic like Elf! Boasting state-of-the-art lighting, acoustics and sound, the Thelma Gaylord Performing Arts Theatre has hosted some of the best touring Broadway shows like Hamilton, Wicked, and Disney’s The Lion King. If its rich history is of any indication, tickets for this show will sell out in a flash! Secure your places now to avoid disappointment!

“Slickly irresistible and fizzily enjoyable confection of a show” – Time Out London

“The Musical gives beloved holiday comedy an energized old-Broadway spin” – Create A Stir

Synopsis

Elf – The Musical tells the funny and heartwarming tale of Buddy. As a baby, he crawled into Santa’s bag of gifts and grew up in the North Pole. He trained to become one of Santa’s top helpers. Raised by his adoptive father, Papa Elf, Buddy has always considered himself part of the elf community – even though he’s very tall, very clumsy, and very enthusiastic. Everything changes when he makes a shocking discovery: Buddy is actually human! Determined to learn who he really is, he embarks on an exciting adventure to New York City. On his journey, he searches for his family and spreads the true joy of Christmas. Inspired by the beloved 2003 movie starring Will Ferrell, this stage version sparkles with dazzling sets, catchy songs, and a heartwarming story that’s guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit!!

“Lighthearted, warm, and an effervescent antidote to the chaos of the holiday season” – Intermission Magazine 

Creative Team

Last year’s cast included Grey Henson as Buddy the Elf, with Sean Astin playing Santa (and also Mr. Greenway). Kayla Davion appeared as Jovie, while Michael Hayden took on the role of Walter Hobbs and Ashley Brown played Emily Hobbs. Kai Edgar was featured as Michael Hobbs, and Jennifer Sánchez played Deb. Kalen Allen appeared as the Store Manager and Hot Dog Vendor, and Michael Deaner rounded out the cast as the Little Boy. And we expect this year’s stars to shine just as bright! 

The production contains a book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin; music and lyrics by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin (from The Prom and The Wedding Singer); and set design by the talented Tim Goodchild. Meanwhile, Director Phillip Wm. McKinley knits every element together to create a show that’s bursting at the seams with more treats than Santa’s workshop. Other members of the creative team include Liam Steel (choreography), Patrick Woodroffe (lighting), Gareth Owen and Peter Fitzgerald (sound), Ian William Galloway (video), and Alan Williams (music supervision).

History and Awards

After two hugely successful, record-breaking runs in the West End in 2022 and 2023, as well as a highly successful return to Broadway last year, the show is back and bigger than ever! Elf – The Musical is playing at the Thelma Gaylord Performing Arts Theatre from 18-24 November 2025.

After its 2010-2011 original Broadway debut, the show came back for a 2012-2013 Christmas engagement with a revised book. Casey Nicholaw directed both engagements. The upcoming show was first staged at London’s Dominion Theatre and became the theater’s fastest-selling show in nearly a century. What’s more, the musical returned the following season and smashed its own box office records!!

Adapted from the 2003 New Line Cinema movie, which starred heavyweights Will Ferrell, Zooey Deschanel and James Caan, Elf grossed more than a staggering $250 million dollars worldwide. And, ever since, it’s been a holiday viewing staple!

“Has the magic to send you out of the theatre smiling and singing” – Times of London