Sean Astin to make Broadway debut in 'Elf The Musical'

The Oscar-nominated actor will join Grey Henson in the limited-run revival of the holiday musical, adapted from the Christmas film starring Will Ferrell.

Gillian Russo
Gillian Russo

We don't sit on a throne of lies! Academy Award-nominated actor Sean Astin will make his Broadway debut in Elf The Musical this winter, performing in the limited holiday engagement at the Marquis Theatre from November 9 to January 4 only.

With a decades-long screen career under his belt, Astin is known for his roles as Mikey Walsh in The Goonies, the title character of Rudy, Samwise Gamgee in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, Doug Whitmore in 50 First Dates, and Bob Newby on Stranger Things. He has also worked behind the scenes, earning his Oscar nomination for directing and producing the short film Kangaroo Court.

Now, Astin will play Santa in Elf The Musical, opposite previously announced Tony Award nominee Grey Henson as Buddy the Elf. Additional casting has yet to be announced.

Elf on Broadway features music by Matthew Sklar, lyrics by Chad Beguelin, and a script by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin, adapted from David Berenbaum’s screenplay for the 2003 Will Ferrell film of the same name. The show follows Buddy the Elf, who goes on a quest from the North Pole to New York City to find his dad, spreading Christmas cheer along the way.

The 2024 Broadway production is directed by Philip Wm. McKinley, who previously staged the musical in London's West End. The show also has choreography by Liam Steel, set and costume design by Tim Goodchild, lighting design by Patrick Woodroffe, sound design by Gareth Owen, video design by Ian William Galloway, and music supervision by Alan Williams.

Photo credit: Sean Astin. (Photo courtesy of production)

Frequently asked questions

How do you book tickets for Elf the Musical?

Book tickets for Elf the Musical on New York Theatre Guide.

Where is Elf the Musical playing?

Elf the Musical is playing at Marquis Theatre. The theatre is located at 1535 Broadway (between 45th and 46th Street), New York, 10036.

What's the age requirement for Elf the Musical?

The recommended age for Elf the Musical is Ages 4+..

How long is Elf the Musical?

The running time of Elf the Musical is 2hr 30min. Incl. 15min intermission.

What is Elf the Musical about?

Elf The Musical plays on Broadway for a limited time only this holiday season. See Elf in New York and experience a thrilling spectacle of the beloved film come to life on stage.

What are the songs in Elf?

The songs in Elf include love ballads, song-and-dance numbers, and heartwarming solos, all tinged with holiday magic — and sleigh bells, of course.

Who wrote Elf The Musical?

Elf has with a score by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin. The book is adapted by Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan from the 2003 film.

Who directed Elf The Musical?

Philip Wm. McKinley, who has directed Big Apple Circuses, stages this production, which promises to be a snowball of fun.

Are children allowed at Elf The Musical?

Elf is a family-friendly show for kids, but note that audiences must be ages four and up to enter Broadway theatres.

Is Elf The Musical good?

Elf has enjoyed many positive reviews, and it "has the magic to send you out of the theatre smiling and singing,” per The Times of London.

Originally published on

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