Last weekend felt like the perfect way to launch ourselves into the holiday spirit. The boys and I hopped on the Bainbridge ferry, bundled in layers and buzzing with excitement as the crisp winter air swept across the deck. There’s something about that ferry ride—the hum of the engines, the skyline slowly coming into view, the way Seattle sparkles a little brighter this time of year—that sets the tone for a memorable weekend. And memorable it was.
We decided to turn our Seattle adventure into a full experience and checked into The Inn at the Market. (A full review is coming later this week!) Nestled right in the heart of the city, just steps from Pike Place, it felt like the perfect home base. After settling in, we made our way to Von’s for a delicious dinner. Their cozy atmosphere and savory comfort dishes warmed us right up after being out in the cool night air.
\If you haven’t been to Seattle during the holidays, you’re truly missing something special. And if you haven’t seen a holiday show at The 5th Avenue Theatre, you’re missing the cherry on top of the entire season. We all know Elf—the beloved 2003 film starring Will Ferrell is practically required viewing in our home every December—but seeing it come to life on stage was an experience that felt brand new, nostalgic, and sparkling with Christmas cheer all at once.
The musical adaptation stays true to the heart of the story: Buddy the Elf, who has spent his life embracing his elf duties in the North Pole, suddenly learns he’s actually human. He sets off to New York City—full of hope, innocence, and unstoppable enthusiasm—to find his real family and, as always, to bring Christmas spirit to everyone he meets.
But this cast… this cast brought something truly special.
Buddy, played by the absolutely delightful Eric Antrim, was a highlight from the moment he stepped on stage. He had the playful awkwardness, the innocence, the humor that’s funny even when he isn’t trying to be, and the heartfelt goofiness that makes Buddy so lovable. The audience was with him every step of the way—laughing, cheering, rooting for him.
Then there was Kenji Finalestein, who plays Buddy’s younger brother Michael Hobbs. It’s unbelievable that he’s only in 5th grade in real life, because his performance was pure talent—vocal strength, stage presence, emotion—he stole scenes again and again. Watching him perform alongside Krystle Armstrong, who plays Emily Hobbs, was a joy. Their mother-son scenes, especially the musical numbers they shared, stood out as some of the most heartfelt and beautifully executed moments in the entire show. Krystle, a seasoned 5th Ave performer, brought warmth, honesty, and humor to her role as the stressed, hopeful, loving mother.
Of course, the Hobb family wouldn’t be complete without Walter Hobbs, played by Seattle’s own Chad Kelderman. He brought just the right amount of sternness and corporate villain energy that slowly melts away as Christmas magic takes hold. And speaking of Christmas magic, Santa, played by the incredibly charming Richard Ziman, lit up the stage with every appearance—reminding the audience exactly why we believe in the holiday warmth of the season.
But you can’t tell Buddy’s story without Jovie, played by the talented Tori Gresham. She was funny, dry-humored, endearing, and brought depth to the role that made her journey from guarded to glowing in love feel so real. You felt for her when Buddy accidentally stood her up at the Tavern on the Green, and you cheered for her as she slowly found her own piece of joy.
And then there was my absolute favorite moment: the final scene.
The stage overflowed with Christmas spirit during the performance of “The Christmas Song.” With Santa and Mrs. Claus tap dancing, the Hobbs family gathered together, Jovie, Buddy, and even the new baby sharing the warmth of Christmas at the North Pole, and the entire ensemble joining in—it was breathtaking. It felt like the moment where the entire audience let out a collective sigh of joy and wonder. Pure holiday magic.
Of course, a musical is only as good as the music guiding it, and the show’s brilliance wouldn’t be possible without the extraordinary orchestra, led by the gifted Matthew Smedal. Their performance filled the theater with energy, heart, and holiday sparkle, lifting every scene and pulling the entire story together.
It was a night I don’t think any of us will forget.
One thing I absolutely have to highlight is how wonderfully accessible The 5th Avenue Theatre is. As someone who is legally blind, I was genuinely impressed by how welcoming, supportive, and prepared their staff is. Everyone we interacted with was incredibly kind, patient, and willing to help with anything we needed. The theater is fully wheelchair accessible, and navigating the space felt comfortable and thoughtful from start to finish.
For guests who need additional support, The 5th Avenue offers a wide range of accessible performance options, thanks to Premera Blue Cross. ASL-interpreted and open-captioned performances are available, with reserved seating close to the interpreters. They also provide audio-described performances using the Sennheiser Listening System, which works throughout the auditorium, so guests can choose seating anywhere. There’s even a tactile display available at every performance for anyone who wants to explore costume textures and stage details up close.
In addition, they offer a sensory-inclusive performance of Elf the Musical that is also ASL-interpreted and open captioned—such a gift for families who need a gentler, more supportive theater environment.
Next time I go, I definitely plan to sit even closer to the stage to take in more of the details. The accessibility, care, and thoughtfulness at The 5th truly enhanced our experience and made the entire night feel even more special.
A first big-city performance for the boys.
A beautiful kickoff to the holiday season for all of us.
And a heartfelt reminder of why we love this time of year—the music, the lights, the stories, the traditions, and the shared experiences that create memories we’ll hold close for years to come.
If you’re thinking about doing something festive this season, make Seattle part of your plans. Walk the Market, enjoy a beautiful meal, take in the lights—and if you’re lucky enough to grab tickets—treat yourself and your family to Elf the Musical at The 5th Avenue Theatre.
It’s joyful, it’s hilarious, it’s heartwarming, and it’s everything Christmas should feel like. Only one question we all had, what kind of magic did they use to get Santas sleigh to fly?1?
Thank you to the 5th Ave Theater for the experience and for the tickets.
