Drury Lane gives the joyous, reflective and humorous gift of “Elf: The Musical” into the new year

Photos provided by Brett Beiner

The movie is widely considered a modern classic, so it was only natural for “Elf: The Musical” to follow in its footsteps on Broadway, maintaining the joyous, reflective and humorous premise in an equally enjoyable adaptation all its own.

Considering its latest revival will be at Drury Lane Theatre until January 8, there are plenty of opportunities to encounter the magical tale of Buddy, a human who’s raised as an elf after being left in Santa’s bag shortly after being born.

By the time he’s an adult, albeit one with childlike wonder and eternal optimism, overwhelming curiosity about the Scrooge-like, book publishing father he never knew prompts a journey all the way from the North Pole to New York City.

Though Illinois’ own Ben Dow isn’t titular role originator Will Ferrell, on the eve of Thanksgiving, he did a similarly convincing job running through all the major moments on the snowy route to reconciliation.

Along with Sean Fortunato (Walter Hobbs), Melody A. Betts (Emily Hobbs), Elliot Mayeda (Michael Hobbs), Lydia Burke (Jovie), A.D. Weaver (Santa), Marya Grandy (Deb), Karmann Bajuyo (Mr. Greenway) and several supporting players, the animated cast makes the audience feel just as invested in the quest.

Plus, it’s always easy to root for Buddy, even after making silly mistakes, such as forgetting a date with a newfound girlfriend and almost getting his father fired, each accompanied by a seasonally appropriate twist.

It all totals nearly two-and-a-half-hours, plus an intermission, which is almost an hour longer than the movie, but its briskly-paced to potentially capture the attention of any age.

And chances are everyone will leave with the jazzy songs stuck in their heads, along with a reminder, to quote a central lyric from the extravaganza, that “the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!”

“Elf: The Musical” continues at the Drury Lane Theatre through January 8. For additional details, visit DruryLaneTheatre.com.