Elf – The Musical is a hot theatre ticket in Winnipeg

The hottest theatre ticket in town these days is without a doubt the upcoming MTC holiday musical Elf, which opens on Nov. 27.

As always, it features tons of local talent, including two youngsters from Winnipeg who will be sharing the role of Michael.

“Yeah, it’s really exciting. I did Sound of Music back in 2023. I’ve been doing Fringe shows here, it’s just really great to be a part of Winnipeg Theatre again,” said Alex Schaeffer, who is playing Michael.

Xaiden Garcia, who is also playing Michael, said, “This is my first show ever, really that I’ve actually ever been in, so I’m really excited to perform in front of my Family and Friends.”

Schaeffer and Garcia will be splitting performances during the month-long run. Both say they’ve been learning lots from each other throughout the process.

“I’d like to think that we’re just there for each other. If something changes, we’ll tell the other person about, like, the role, and the notes the director gave to one of us, it’s like a team, you know?” said Schaeffer.

MTC says that tickets have been selling like hot cakes. So much so that five additional performances were added after Christmas to keep up with high demand. Even the preview performances, set for Nov. 25 and 26, are selling fast. It’s quite a lot of pressure for the two young stars, but both say they’re looking forward to the challenge.

“I’m feeling very nervous, even though I don’t show it on the outside, but I’m pretty sure it’s going to be a great show.  Both Michaels, great cast,” said Garcia.

Schaeffer added, “It just makes me really excited that other people are excited, I’m really feeling the energy, I’m like yeah, I’m all buzzed up, very great.”

Both Garcia and Schaeffer were mum on the finer details of what to expect, but they both agree, audiences won’t be disappointed.

“They can expect a lot of fun, a very heartfelt story, a lot of enthusiastic actors, it’s just going to be a really great time for the audience,” said Schaeffer.