"AHHHH Paper Mill Playhouse. Broadway in New Jersey! Nestled next to a serene running stream, this Historical Landmark has been home to the two-show day shenanigans of Broadway’s finest," says Parcells. "And our (not so) little production of Elf is no different. Behind the colorful magic that the audience delights in is a whole world of 150+ costume changes, 50 wig changes, 4 kids, 40 fake snowballs, and literally thousands of delightful giggles. Welcome to a two-show day at Elf."
11:45 am van call at the parking garage. At the helm of 15 passenger Van 1 (aka Speedy McJingles) is Patrick O’Neill. The fare for any guest who rides in Van 1 is a good dirty joke. (stupid ones accepted as well).
Heather Parcells
The occupants of Van 1 (Madge Dietrich, Sam Seferian, Jody Reynard, Michael Fatica, Michael Di Liberto) have stocked up on coffee for the beginning of our 10 hour day.
Heather Parcells
Up ahead out of the Lincoln tunnel we see Van 2.
Heather Parcells
Passing is always a pleasure!
Heather Parcells
Parking that 15 passenger Speedy McJingles is no easy feet near the Paper Mill Stage Door. Thank God it wasn’t raining today!
Heather Parcells
Time to sign in so Stage Management knows you are here, just in case you may have gotten lost between the vans and the stage door. Michael Fatica wins best signature.
Heather Parcells
Since there was no traffic that day, we arrived super early, so I decided to take a nap with one of our props. Super comfy. If interested, the bear can be purchased @ Duane Reade.
Heather Parcells
Apparently the female ensemble dressing room had the same idea I did.
Heather Parcells
The male ensemble drank enough coffee, so they are perky little elves this morning.
Heather Parcells
The kids…well kids will be kids.
Heather Parcells
DeMone always likes to say a sensual “hello” to himself when he arrives. Actors.
Heather Parcells
Soooo…the climate control at The Paper Mill isn’t completely regulated. Heidi Blickenstaff’s poinsettia has fallen victim to heat stroke in her dressing room.
Heather Parcells
Pregnant Kate Farhner needs her naps to make sure she is “sparklejollytwinklejingley” for the show.
Heather Parcells
We have a “walk on” role today folks!!!
Heather Parcells
Meet Fran. She gets to play a frantic Macy’s patron in the first show.
Heather Parcells
Fran brought Peanut Butter Chocolate squares for the cast. Our Stage Manager, Gary Mickleson makes sure that we all get some because this entire company is addicted to sugar!
Heather Parcells
Time for Buddy (James Moye) and Santa (Paul C. Vogt) to get into wigs.
Heather Parcells
Madge Dietrich is a happy little Elf getting her wig on.
Heather Parcells
Chris Richards and I have bonded over being Understudies for Emily and Michael Hobbs. This little nugget is one talented little dude!!!
Heather Parcells
Back to the dressing room to finish getting ready. Mariah Carey (not singing live at the tree lighting) is our Christmas go-to tune!!!
Heather Parcells
OK…The Elves are ready to go onstage for Show #1. Let the costume changes begin!
Heather Parcells
Santa was a little late because Elf Brittany Conigatti was bugging him about something.
Heather Parcells
While the Elves are in Christmastown, Heidi was backstage doing some online shopping for the relatives.
Heather Parcells
Stage Manager Gary Mickelson at the helm…so many cues to call in this show.
Heather Parcells
Ready. Set. Skate Kate! “ice skating” rehearsals were a highlight…until you wear those rolling bricks for over 3 hours.
Heather Parcells
Of course, whenever I get a break, I am up to no good backstage. Jessica Sheridan had no idea this was happening.
Heather Parcells
This poor, unassuming snowman didn’t either.
Heather Parcells
James Moye has virtually NO downtime during the show, but he makes sure his mouth is properly sanitized when he does come offstage. Thanks James. We appreciate the cleansing.
Heather Parcells
20 minute intermission!!! The crew room is the best hangout in the building. 2 TVs, a full kitchen, and several lay-z-boy recliners. We Love our crew.
Heather Parcells
It’s the bathrobe gang. Comfy intermission pics.
Heather Parcells
One of our little ones, Sydney Brenton (who plays my daughter) made this gorgeous snowflake out of notebook paper in about 10 mins. Kids these days…
Heather Parcells
The Santas hitting the syrup before Act II with our “Walk On” Fran.
Heather Parcells
Show’s over!!!! Girl trip in Van 2 to the Mall!
Heather Parcells
Time to shop for the Door decorating contest!!!
Heather Parcells
And this is where we start of all places. We just can’t get enough of Macy’s onstage or off!
Heather Parcells
You aren’t really Santa! You smell like beef and cheese!!
Heather Parcells
Oh, you know…a sensible dinner for Heidi and me. Not at all ashamed. We are looking out for our vocal cords! All that grease coats those babies like nobody’s business.
Heather Parcells
Back to the callboard. Gary has left us a little message…not sure how I feel about that…
Heather Parcells
Time to load up on the caffeine again. It’s not the dancing…it’s the costume changes that are exhausting.
Heather Parcells
Apparently, I am not the only one who needs coffee. Wake up Fatica!!!
Heather Parcells
The Female Ensemble already started on their door decorating before the 2nd show. We are determined to win this dang contest! This year’s theme: “Buddy the Elf around the world.” (Jessica Sheridan, Alicia Charles, Gillian Munsayac, Brittany Conigatti)
Heather Parcells
Somehow, Brittany and I have managed to put our Elf ears on wrong. Not quite sure how that happened.
Heather Parcells
Have I mentioned that there is a Robert Cuccioli fan club? You too can join like Deb, our dresser, at http://www.robertcuccioli.com Dues are $20.00 yearly.
Heather Parcells
Here is the man himself. Yes…he is that handsome.
Heather Parcells
DeMone wishes he had a fan club, we have to keep him in check.
Heather Parcells
BTW…We have a Peter Pan live too!!! Sandy Duncan is in our cast. She makes special appearances every once in awhile. Look for her during the skating scene.
Heather Parcells
Skating takes theater to a whole new level. (Micahel Coale Grey, Stephanie Cain, Michael Fatica, and Sam Seferian)
Heather Parcells
Watch out Frank DiLella, I’m coming after your job @ NY1. Charlotte Dennan, in honor of my previous A Chorus Line castmate Charlotte D’amboise, is ready.
Heather Parcells
No time to take photos between the end of the show and getting home because we are speed demons and are trying to catch that precious 10:21pm C train. 2 show day OVER!!!
Heather Parcells
Made the train @ 34th street. Parcells OUT!!!!
Heather Parcells
*
Elf is directed by Eric Ankrim and choreographed by Josh Rhodes. The cast features James Moye (Buddy), Kate Fahrner (Jovie), Paul C. Vogt (Santa), Heidi Blickenstaff (Emily Hobbs), Robert Cuccioli (Walter Hobbs), Jake Faragalli (Michael), Cleve Asbury (Mr. Greenway), Jessica Sheridan (Deb) and DeMone (Macy’s Manager).
The ensemble comprises Sydney Brenton, Stephanie Cain, Alicia Charles, Brittany Conigatti, Michael Di Liberto, Madge Dietrich, Michael Fatica, Michael Coale Grey, Anna McCarthy, Gillian Munsayac, Patrick O’Neill, Heather Parcells, Jody Reynard, Chris Richards, Justin Schuman, Sam Seferian and Laura Smith.
Elf has a book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin, music by Matthew Sklar and lyrics by Chad Beguelin.
Elf is described as a "fantastical holiday musical for the entire family! This is the hilarious and joyous tale of Buddy, an orphan who is mistakenly transported to the North Pole and raised by Santa's elves. Now, as a grownup, he embarks on a journey to discover his true identity. It's a holiday treat for the entire family."
The creative team also includes music director Dominick Amendum, scenic designer Matthew Smucker, scenic coordinator Kelly James Tighe, costume designer David C. Woolard, costume coordinator Irma Brainard, lighting designer Charlie Morrison, sound designer Randy Hansen, hair and wig designer Leah Loukas, casting director Telsey + Company and production stage manager Gary Mickelson.
Tickets may be purchased by calling (973) 376-4343, at the Paper Mill Playhouse Box Office at 22 Brookside Drive in Millburn, or online at PaperMill.org.
*
Paper Mill Playhouse will once again be a collection point for this year’s Jersey Cares Coat Drive. The theatre will be collecting gently used winter coats through the run of Elf. Paper Mill will also be a collection center for new, unwrapped toys to help underserved communities throughout the state. Collection of coats and toys will take place in the lobby.
Paper Mill Playhouse will offer audio-described performances (Dec. 20 and 21 at 1:30 PM), sign-interpreted and open-captioned performance (Dec. 21 at 7 PM) and a special autism-friendly performance (Dec. 23 at 1:30 PM).
11:45 am van call at the parking garage. At the helm of 15 passenger Van 1 (aka Speedy McJingles) is Patrick O’Neill. The fare for any guest who rides in Van 1 is a good dirty joke. (stupid ones accepted as well).
Heather Parcells
The occupants of Van 1 (Madge Dietrich, Sam Seferian, Jody Reynard, Michael Fatica, Michael Di Liberto) have stocked up on coffee for the beginning of our 10 hour day.
Heather Parcells
Up ahead out of the Lincoln tunnel we see Van 2.
Heather Parcells
Passing is always a pleasure!
Heather Parcells
Parking that 15 passenger Speedy McJingles is no easy feet near the Paper Mill Stage Door. Thank God it wasn’t raining today!
Heather Parcells
Time to sign in so Stage Management knows you are here, just in case you may have gotten lost between the vans and the stage door. Michael Fatica wins best signature.
Heather Parcells
Since there was no traffic that day, we arrived super early, so I decided to take a nap with one of our props. Super comfy. If interested, the bear can be purchased @ Duane Reade.
Heather Parcells
Apparently the female ensemble dressing room had the same idea I did.
Heather Parcells
The male ensemble drank enough coffee, so they are perky little elves this morning.
Heather Parcells
The kids…well kids will be kids.
Heather Parcells
DeMone always likes to say a sensual “hello” to himself when he arrives. Actors.
Heather Parcells
Soooo…the climate control at The Paper Mill isn’t completely regulated. Heidi Blickenstaff’s poinsettia has fallen victim to heat stroke in her dressing room.
Heather Parcells
Pregnant Kate Farhner needs her naps to make sure she is “sparklejollytwinklejingley” for the show.
Heather Parcells
We have a “walk on” role today folks!!!
Heather Parcells
Meet Fran. She gets to play a frantic Macy’s patron in the first show.
Heather Parcells
Fran brought Peanut Butter Chocolate squares for the cast. Our Stage Manager, Gary Mickleson makes sure that we all get some because this entire company is addicted to sugar!
Heather Parcells
Time for Buddy (James Moye) and Santa (Paul C. Vogt) to get into wigs.
Heather Parcells
Madge Dietrich is a happy little Elf getting her wig on.
Heather Parcells
Chris Richards and I have bonded over being Understudies for Emily and Michael Hobbs. This little nugget is one talented little dude!!!
Heather Parcells
Back to the dressing room to finish getting ready. Mariah Carey (not singing live at the tree lighting) is our Christmas go-to tune!!!
Heather Parcells
OK…The Elves are ready to go onstage for Show #1. Let the costume changes begin!
Heather Parcells
Santa was a little late because Elf Brittany Conigatti was bugging him about something.
Heather Parcells
While the Elves are in Christmastown, Heidi was backstage doing some online shopping for the relatives.
Heather Parcells
Stage Manager Gary Mickelson at the helm…so many cues to call in this show.
Heather Parcells
Ready. Set. Skate Kate! “ice skating” rehearsals were a highlight…until you wear those rolling bricks for over 3 hours.
Heather Parcells
Of course, whenever I get a break, I am up to no good backstage. Jessica Sheridan had no idea this was happening.
Heather Parcells
This poor, unassuming snowman didn’t either.
Heather Parcells
James Moye has virtually NO downtime during the show, but he makes sure his mouth is properly sanitized when he does come offstage. Thanks James. We appreciate the cleansing.
Heather Parcells
20 minute intermission!!! The crew room is the best hangout in the building. 2 TVs, a full kitchen, and several lay-z-boy recliners. We Love our crew.
Heather Parcells
It’s the bathrobe gang. Comfy intermission pics.
Heather Parcells
One of our little ones, Sydney Brenton (who plays my daughter) made this gorgeous snowflake out of notebook paper in about 10 mins. Kids these days…
Heather Parcells
The Santas hitting the syrup before Act II with our “Walk On” Fran.
Heather Parcells
Show’s over!!!! Girl trip in Van 2 to the Mall!
Heather Parcells
Time to shop for the Door decorating contest!!!
Heather Parcells
And this is where we start of all places. We just can’t get enough of Macy’s onstage or off!
Heather Parcells
You aren’t really Santa! You smell like beef and cheese!!
Heather Parcells
Oh, you know…a sensible dinner for Heidi and me. Not at all ashamed. We are looking out for our vocal cords! All that grease coats those babies like nobody’s business.
Heather Parcells
Back to the callboard. Gary has left us a little message…not sure how I feel about that…
Heather Parcells
Time to load up on the caffeine again. It’s not the dancing…it’s the costume changes that are exhausting.
Heather Parcells
Apparently, I am not the only one who needs coffee. Wake up Fatica!!!
Heather Parcells
The Female Ensemble already started on their door decorating before the 2nd show. We are determined to win this dang contest! This year’s theme: “Buddy the Elf around the world.” (Jessica Sheridan, Alicia Charles, Gillian Munsayac, Brittany Conigatti)
Heather Parcells
Somehow, Brittany and I have managed to put our Elf ears on wrong. Not quite sure how that happened.
Heather Parcells
Have I mentioned that there is a Robert Cuccioli fan club? You too can join like Deb, our dresser, at http://www.robertcuccioli.com Dues are $20.00 yearly.
Heather Parcells
Here is the man himself. Yes…he is that handsome.
Heather Parcells
DeMone wishes he had a fan club, we have to keep him in check.
Heather Parcells
BTW…We have a Peter Pan live too!!! Sandy Duncan is in our cast. She makes special appearances every once in awhile. Look for her during the skating scene.
Heather Parcells
Skating takes theater to a whole new level. (Micahel Coale Grey, Stephanie Cain, Michael Fatica, and Sam Seferian)
Heather Parcells
Watch out Frank DiLella, I’m coming after your job @ NY1. Charlotte Dennan, in honor of my previous A Chorus Line castmate Charlotte D’amboise, is ready.
Heather Parcells
No time to take photos between the end of the show and getting home because we are speed demons and are trying to catch that precious 10:21pm C train. 2 show day OVER!!!
Heather Parcells
Made the train @ 34th street. Parcells OUT!!!!
Heather Parcells
