The return of “Elf the Musical” to Broadway has proven to be a sensational highlight of the 2023 holiday season. Performing at the Marquis Theatre, the show achieved an impressive gross of $2,230,419 across just eight performances during the week ending December 22. This remarkable figure not only underscores the musical’s popularity but has also set a new box office record for the venue, surpassing the previous record held by “Beetlejuice.” Such feats demonstrate Broadway’s powerful ability to draw audiences during the festive period, with “Elf” firmly establishing itself as a mainstay in the world of holiday entertainment.
The revival of “Elf” has returned to New York with considerable momentum. Starring Grey Hanson as Buddy the Elf and Sean Astin as Santa, the show captured audience hearts while achieving a remarkable capacity of 98%. This revival exceeded the previous week’s revenue of $2,033,784, indicating growing interest and excitement surrounding the production. The magnetic pull of holiday-themed shows is evident, especially as “Elf” joins the ranks of established Broadway giants like “Wicked,” “The Lion King,” and “Hamilton,” all of which also continued to see substantial increases in their weekly gross figures.
“Elf the Musical” first made its Broadway debut during the 2010-2011 season and has since become a beloved holiday tradition. With a book written by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin, complemented by vibrant songs from Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, the musical takes inspiration from the 2003 film that instantaneously became a holiday classic. Having undergone a revised book in its 2012-2013 holiday run, “Elf” has consistently highlighted the enchanting aspects of the holiday spirit through its cheerful narrative and catchy score. The show’s recent record-breaking runs in London’s West End further validate its global appeal and timeless charm.
While “Elf the Musical” shines brightly this holiday season, it is not the only production captivating audiences. The box office reports indicate a vibrant landscape over the past week, with “All In: Comedy About Love” making its presence known through a successful first full week, grossing $1,327,148. This success underscores a broader trend where many productions, such as “Chicago,” “Hadestown,” and “Romeo & Juliet,” have similarly sold out shows during this bustling time frame.
While “Elf” stands out, it shares the spotlight with other major productions. “Gypsy,” featuring the powerhouse Audra McDonald, showcased a commendable gross of $1,567,014 across its performances. Meanwhile, Jonathan Spector’s “Eureka Day” is breaking new ground, successfully extending its run due to positive reception. Such dynamics within the Broadway framework underline a thriving theater scene buoyed by a holiday spirit and the promise of diverse storytelling.
Overall, Broadway has rebounded remarkably compared to last year, with total grosses reaching $44,466,554 and an attendance of over 302,828 for the latest week, marking an impressive 32% increase from the same time last year. With ticket prices averaging $146.84, Broadway’s economic recovery post-pandemic appears promising. The seasonal gross of over $1 billion indicates a bright future for the industry’s revival, alongside growing enthusiasm for live performances.
As “Elf the Musical” continues its run through January 5, it’s clear that holiday-themed productions bring a unique charm and energy to the Broadway stage. With its heartwarming story and engaging performances, “Elf” exemplifies the joy that live theater can bring during the festive season. The flourishing box office numbers reflect not just the success of one show, but a collective revival of the Broadway experience, echoing the sentiments of hope and merriment that this time of year embodies. The musical’s triumph is a testament to the enduring appeal of Broadway and its ability to resonate with audiences, reminding us all of the magic that the holiday season brings.