Recalling her role as Jovie in “Elf The Musical” brings a smile to Emily Schaab’s face.
The Noblesville resident performed in Civic Theatre’s 2019 production.
“Playing Jovie was a dream,” Schaab said. “I felt connected to her, and the role was so fun. And honestly, the best part of playing Jovie was being able to do so alongside the rest of the amazing cast.”
The successful run was slated to be repeated this month, but a live production is not possible amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The show will be available Dec. 4 through Dec. 26. After the Dec. 4 opening, there will be streamed shows at 7 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
The production, which was videotaped in December 2019, will be available as a streaming and on-demand experience. The show is based on the 2003 movie starring Will Ferrell as Buddy.
This was Schaab’s first lead role in a Civic Theatre production. Schaab previously performed in “Newsies” and “Mamma Mia!”
“I can’t say enough good things about my experience,” she said. “Every single person in the cast, staff, crew and orchestra worked seamlessly together, and I think we created something really special. During rehearsals, I felt challenged and supported by my castmates. Throughout the run of the show, I was able to form relationships that I am so grateful for.
“It really was the most positive experience from top to bottom.”
Originally, the cast was supposed to perform “Elf” again live this winter.
“I would love nothing more than to step back into the crazy, hilarious and jingly world of Jovie and Buddy,” Schaab said. “It would be an honor to play the role again.”
Like most performers, Schaab has found it difficult not being able to perform since the pandemic hit in mid-March and shows have been shut down.
“Honestly, it feels like being homesick,” she said. “Something that was such a big part of my life was suddenly taken away. I have truly grieved alongside my friends and loved ones who have been unable to perform and create, especially those whose livelihoods depend on the theater. It is really heartbreaking.”
Westfield resident Matt Bays portrayed Buddy, and Indianapolis resident Parrish Williams played Santa in the 2019 production.
There will be pre-recorded interview segments with performers from the 2019 shows.
When customers have purchased access to “Elf,” they will be provided with their own unique code to access either the scheduled stream or the on-demand experience.
On Dec. 12, Civic Theatre will present a live virtual performance of its holiday variety show, “Holiday Lights,” a celebration of the holiday season. “Holiday Lights” will feature many familiar local performers bringing holiday cheer through song and dance. Customers can purchase a link for either the livestream at 7 p.m. Dec. 12 or can get a link for an on-demand version that will be available from Dec. 13 until Jan. 1, 2021.
For more, visit civictheatre.org.
