Pine-Richland High School presents 'Elf The Musical'

The students of Pine-Richland High School are keeping the spirit of Christmas alive all year round.

On March 17 and 18, high schoolers will perform “Elf The Musical,” based on the beloved holiday film.

In the show, Buddy the Elf leaves the North Pole on a quest to find his father and ends up spending the holiday season with his family in New York City. Prepare for a heartwarming journey of self-discovery and remember the true meaning of Christmas.

Jack Exline stars at Buddy, and Rylee Branscum plays Jovie.

The students have been rehearsing since before the winter holiday break. There are 46 kids in the cast, 25 on the crew, and 20 in the orchestra. The show contains an unusually large number of scene changes, so the run crew has been rehearsing every week to ensure everything goes smoothly.

“Every day is just a joy with them,” director Kathy Morrissey said.

Though the students were initially skeptical of doing a Christmas musical in the spring, the show has brought out the best in everyone.

“Because at its heart — it’s not a show about Christmas. It’s a show about finding your way in the world, becoming the best version of yourself, and the power of love and family,” Morrissey said.

Tickets, which are $15 for reserved and $12 for balcony general admission, can be purchased online at pinerichland.org. The show will run on March 17, 18, and 24 at 7:30 p.m. and on March 25 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Additionally, a free preview for senior citizens will take place on March 16 at 4 p.m.