Kids developing elf esteem
The musical about an elf who never quite fit in is actually the perfect fit for the holidays. The latest production from the Lincoln City Playhouse, “Elf Jr.” will light up the Lincoln City Cultural Center from Saturday, Dec. 11 through Sunday, Dec. 19.
Based on the beloved holiday film, the comedy follows Buddy the Elf on a journey of self-discovery after his relatively large size and poor toy-making abilities causes him to question his true identity.
In true Playhouse fashion, the production has increased in numbers to welcome all hopeful performers.
“It is so important to me that everybody gets to be a part of every production we put on and we’ve been growing a lot,” said Karen Bonelli Sanquist, director and founder of the company. “We went from 15 core kids and now we have 35. There will be 31 kids in ‘Elf Jr.’ I’m not shocked but I am amazed that so many people want to be a part of this.”
After a few years of thinking about filling the demand for a full-time theater company specifically for children, Bonelli Sanquist formed the company in 2019.
A current online raffle will help support the Playhouse’s goals.
“I’ve been gathering stuff together like restaurant gift certificates, gift baskets of alcohol and food and other things people have donated,” Bonelli Sanquist said. “There are even some Elf-themed baskets.”
To access the online raffle, go to 32auctions.com/LCPlayhouse?v=5_8.
Upcoming Playhouse productions include “Honk Jr.” and “The Descendents.”
“The thing I’m most looking forward to next season is the production of three student-written-and-directed plays,” Bonelli Sanquist said. “We’ll be reaching out to the community to help choose the winners. We’re accepting all the way up to age 22 so college kids can submit, too. My daughter has written one, which is why I can’t help pick.”
With cast members from ages four to 15, Bonelli Sanquist said rehearsals for “Elf Jr.” have been going well.
“I’m very excited about ‘Elf,’” she said. “I know that the second they get on stage and have an audience, we won’t have any problems.”
Showtimes for “Elf Jr.” are Saturday, Dec. 11, at 3 and 7 pm, Sunday, Dec. 12. at 3 pm, Thursday, Dec. 16, at 6:30 pm, Friday, Dec. 17, at 7 pm, Saturday, Dec. 18, at 3 and 7 pm and Sunday, Dec. 19, at 3 pm. Tickets are $6 for kids, $12 for adults. Performances take place at the Lincoln City Cultural Center, located at 540 NE Hwy. 101. Proof of vaccination is required for entry. For more information and tickets, go to lincolncity-culturalcenter.org or call 541-994-9994.