Broadway is preparing to welcome back a beloved holiday tradition this November as Elf The Musical returns for a limited engagement. This season’s production will star Tony-nominated actor Grey Henson, best known for his role in Mean Girls, taking on the role of Buddy the Elf.

The announcement was made today by producers Temple Live Entertainment and Crossroads Live North America. The musical, which originally premiered on Broadway in 2010, will begin preview performances at the Marquis Theatre on Saturday, November 9, with the official opening night scheduled for Sunday, November 17. Audiences will have until Saturday, January 4, 2025, to catch this festive performance.

“I can’t wait to step into the tights and play Buddy the Elf eight times a week. This show is packed with laughter and joy, and there’s no better time to bring it to life than the holiday season on Broadway,” said Henson in an official statement. “Watching Elf has been a yearly tradition for me, and now I’m thrilled to fulfill a dream by performing it on stage.”

This return to Broadway follows the musical’s two record-breaking holiday seasons in London’s West End in 2022 and 2023. The show, which is based on the 2003 film starring Will Ferrell, features a script by Thomas Meehan (known for Annie, The Producers, Hairspray) and Bob Martin (of The Drowsy Chaperone, Smash fame), with music by Matthew Sklar and lyrics by Chad Beguelin (collaborators on The Prom and The Wedding Singer).

After its original 2010-2011 Broadway run, Elf The Musical made a triumphant return in 2012-2013 with a revised script, both runs directed by Casey Nicholaw.

The upcoming Broadway production was first staged at the Dominion Theatre in London’s West End in 2022, where it became the theatre’s fastest-selling show in nearly 100 years, according to its producers. Following its success, the production returned the next year, breaking its own box office records.

This new Broadway version features choreography by Liam Steel, set and costume design by Tim Goodchild, lighting by Patrick Woodroffe, sound design by Gareth Owen, and video design by Ian William Galloway. The musical’s score will be overseen by Alan Williams, who serves as music supervisor.

The story of Elf The Musical follows Buddy, an orphan who accidentally ends up at the North Pole after crawling into Santa’s toy sack as a baby. Raised by elves, Buddy grows up to be much larger than the others and struggles with his toy-making skills. When he learns that he is actually human, he sets off on an adventure to New York City to find his real father. Along the way, Buddy helps the people of New York rediscover the true spirit of Christmas.

With its heartwarming story, vibrant characters, and toe-tapping tunes, Elf The Musical is sure to bring holiday cheer to audiences of all ages during this festive Broadway season.