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The festive season is almost upon us, and if you're looking for a little Christmas magic for the family – this is it!
This December, the Young Performers Project (YPP) is bringing ELF The Musical Jr to Durban, inviting audiences to step into the joyful world of Buddy the Elf.
Running at the Playhouse Drama Theatre from 4 to 20 December 2026, this lively musical is based on the much-loved 2003 film starring Will Ferrell.
Expect plenty of festive cheer, high-energy musical numbers, big dance routines and laugh-out-loud moments as Buddy sets out on a mission to find his family – and remind us all of the true meaning of Christmas.
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What is ELF The Musical Jr about?
The story follows Buddy, a young orphan who accidentally crawls into Santa's sack of presents and finds himself transported to the North Pole. Raised by Santa's helpers, he grows up believing he is an elf. But his towering height and less-than-impressive toy-making skills eventually reveal that he is not quite like the others.
With Santa's blessing, Buddy heads to New York City to find his birth father and discover where he belongs. But adjusting to life in the human world isn't easy. Determined to win over his new family, Buddy sets out to spread a little Christmas spirit – and perhaps save Christmas along the way.
Based on the hit Broadway and West End musical, ELF The Musical Jr promises a festive theatrical outing for all ages. There's a fun real-life connection, too: before becoming a household name, Will Ferrell once worked as a mall Santa.
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A young cast brings the festive favourite to life
This year's cast includes 35 senior scholars and 44 junior scholars from 45 different schools.
Matthew Brown takes on the role of Buddy, with Daisy Spencer directing, Victoria Andrews handling choreography, and Des Govender leading music direction. The creative team also includes Ant Govender on sound design, Nicolene Steyn on set and props, and Kathy Singery on costumes.
YPP has previously staged productions including The Little Mermaid, Annie, Shrek, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.
There are some extra festive touches to look forward to after the performance, too. Audiences can meet the stage characters, while children and adults are encouraged to dress in their Christmas best and take a photograph with Santa and his elves.
Special performance
The production will also include a special Relaxed performance on 4 December.
This performance creates a more welcoming and supportive theatre experience for people and families with different needs, with no expectation of formal theatre silence or stillness.
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What you need to know
- Where: Playhouse Drama Theatre, Durban
- When: 4–20 December 2026
- Duration: Approximately 85 minutes, including a 20-minute interval
- Tickets: R190-R255 through Webtickets (Scholar and pensioner discounts, plus group bookings for 10 or more people)
- School bookings: Email yppdurban@gmail.com
ELF The Musical Jr is a feel-good family outing to add to your December calendar!
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