A standing ovation for ‘Elf the Musical’

If you missed Elf the Musical, presented by the Southwest Nebraska Community Theatre Association (SWNCTA) this past weekend, you missed a truly unforgettable show. From Thursday through Sunday, the historic Fox Theatre in downtown McCook transformed into a winter wonderland, showcasing a production that exceeded even the high expectations set by the beloved holiday movie it was based on.

In fact, we thought Elf the Musical was even better than the original movie. With catchy new songs, a chorus line of fake Santas, and the first tap-dancing performance we can recall from SWNCTA, the show offered fresh delights while capturing the humor and heart of the original story.

The Fox Theatre proved to be the perfect venue. Its charm added a touch of nostalgia to the performance, while the talented SWNCTA cast and crew brought the space to life with elaborate costumes and impressive staging. As we look forward to the addition of a new electronic billboard, we hope the theater will continue to host many more productions that highlight local talent.

Adam Powers delivered an outstanding performance as Buddy, the human raised as an elf at the North Pole. His uninhibited portrayal captured Buddy’s boundless enthusiasm and childlike innocence, and we hope to see Powers in future productions. Lariss Heskett was equally delightful as Buddy’s love interest, blending charm with a touch of New York sass.

The rest of the cast shone brightly, with Chris LaBay, Amber Hopkins, and Michael Hobbs seamlessly navigating their roles as Buddy’s newfound family. Regular performers like Christy Stevens and newcomer Marissa Stevens added a fresh tap-dancing flair, while City Councilman Darcy Rambali brought humor and local flavor to his multiple roles—including a cheeky plug for his ice cream shop.

The professionalism of this production rivaled performances seen at Omaha’s Orpheum or Lincoln’s Lied Center, yet it felt all the more special because the stars were our neighbors, coworkers, and friends. That connection made every moment of Elf the Musical a warm reminder of the power of community and the talent we have right here in Southwest Nebraska.

The near-capacity audience was a testament to the community’s appreciation for the hard work and countless hours that went into this production. From the actors and musicians to the behind-the-scenes crew, SWNCTA delivered a heartwarming experience that brought the magic of Christmas to life.

We can’t wait to see what SWNCTA has planned for the future. After a show like Elf the Musical, the bar is high, but we’re confident this talented group will continue to amaze us. Bravo!