25 named roles, plus ensembles, and soloists
Santa Claus
Santa Claus has a lot on his plate during the Christmas season, and it is starting to show. He is annoyed with the Elves, tired of lying to Buddy and sad that people seem to be losing their Christmas spirit. He is still the same jolly old St. Nick underneath it all, but the job is getting to him. This is a great role for a character performer who can play an older (and somewhat cranky) man while trying hard to keep his holiday spirit.
Gender: male
Vocal range top: D5
Vocal range bottom: Bb3
Buddy
Buddy is the perfect elf! He's good-natured, he means well, and he's happy all the time. There's only one problem. He's not an elf, he's an adult human. This role is perfect for a young man who is an excellent actor and good singer who has the energetic earnestness and comedic timing that Buddy needs. Preferably a taller actor than the elves.
Gender: male
Vocal range top: G5
Vocal range bottom: B3
Charlie
Charlie is the elf in charge of monitoring the other Elves, making sure every present is wrapped and every bow is tied. Needs a good speaking voice, and someone who is comfortable taking command of the stage and has authority over the rest of the Elves, but always remains friendly.
Gender: male
Shawanda
Shawanda is a dependable and caring elf. She will do whatever she can to help out others, including Buddy, even though she accidentally reveals that he is a human. Needs a good actress with a clear speaking voice.
Gender: female
Sam
Sam is one of Walter's Office Staff who is in a bind at the top of the show. A young performer with a good speaking voice and strong character choices will do the trick.
Gender: male
Walter Hobbs
Walter Hobbs, Buddy's real father, is so focused on keeping his job that he is not making time for his family. He can be stern and unemotional at times, but ultimately he learns to recommit to his family. Needs a strong, authoritative presence, with the ability to show his softer side
Gender: male
Vocal range top: E5
Vocal range bottom: B3
Deb
Deb, Walter's secretary, has the big responsibility of keeping her boss and the whole office happy. She does this by sharing her positive attitude with everyone. This is a plum role for a young woman with a pleasant demeanor, yet efficient work ethic, who is a solid actor with a good speaking voice
Gender: female
Emily Hobbs
Emily Hobbs is Walter's devoted wife who would prefer her husband to spend a little more time at home. She is a problem solver and an excellent mother who is doing everything she can to provide a positive family dynamic. Needs an excellent actress and singer who effortlessly conveys a sense of maturity and warmth.
Gender: female
Vocal range top: D5
Vocal range bottom: G3
Michael Hobbs
Michael Hobbs is the smarter-than-average 12-year-old son of Walter and Emily. He quickly befriends his new adult brother, Buddy, and does everything he can to make sure Buddy becomes a permanent part of the family. Higher voice.
Gender: male
Vocal range top: D5
Vocal range bottom: G3
Jovie
Jovie works as a store elf at Macy's, but don't be mistaken, she doesn't quite exude the Christmas spirit. She's kind of cynical, a bit tough around the edges, and now the target of Buddy's complete adoration. Needs a strong singing voice and acting chops.
Gender: female
Vocal range top: Db5
Vocal range bottom: G3
Santa's Helper
Santa's Helper works as a Macy's employee and announces when each kid gets to visit with Santa. Needs a performer with a loud voice.
Gender: any
Fake Santa
Fake Santa is a poor replacement for the real Santa. He's an employee of Macy's who is a bit rough around the edges. Fake Santa needs to be unafraid of being a little over-the-top.
Gender: male
Sarah
Sarah is a staff member at Walter's office. This is a nice role for a less experienced actor with a good singing voice.
Gender: female
Mr. Greenway
Mr. Greenway is one of the crankiest businessmen around. He is the big boss, so needs a commanding presence.
Gender: male
Chadwick and Matthews
Chadwick and Matthews are staff members at Walter's office who are doing everything they can think of to save the day and make their boss happy. They need to work well with each other and be able to drive the action of scenes.
Gender: male
Charlotte Dennon
Charlotte Dennon is a TV reporter with a big personality. She does her best to keep her professional persona in public and doesn't like being shown up. This is a great role for a young woman with professional charisma and someone who can make strong acting choices.
Gender: female
Darlene Lambert and Emma Van Brocklin
Darlene Lambert and Emma Van Brocklin are on the scene in Central Park and are convinced of Santa's magic after Buddy reveals their past Christmas gifts. Look for two young ladies with nice singing voices and some acting experience to take on these small, but featured, roles.
Gender: female
Security Guards
Security Guard #1 and Security Guard #2 are a stern duo from Walter's office, making sure everyone who enters has permission. A duo that works well together and can be a tough pair.
Gender: any
Policemen
Policeman #1 and Policeman #2 are a friendly pair of cops who return Buddy to the Hobbs household. These are perfect featured roles for two ensemble members.
Gender: any
Saleswoman
The Saleswoman is the first person to greet Buddy as he enters Macy's. She's the consummate sales person: smiling, overfriendly, and always trying to sell something.
Gender: female
Manager
The manager is a featured acting role for a performer with good comedic timing. As the manager of Macy's, he's doing everything he can to make sure all the employees stay in line.
Gender: male
Finale Soloists
Finale Soloists #1,#2,#3 and #4 are good roles for strong solo singers.
Vocal range top: B4
Vocal range bottom: B3
Elves Ensemble
The Elves are Santa's special helpers who love their job making toys to meet their Christmas Eve deadline. These roles are great for those who can embody a youthful spirit, enjoy singing and work well together as a group.
Gender: any
Ensemble
The Ensemble, including New Yorkers, Comforting New Yorker, Macy's Employees, Macy's Employee #1, Members of the Rockefeller Crowd, Office Staff, Business Woman, Flyer Guys, Teenager, Jogger, Carolers, Passerby, Children and Parents are all important roles for creating the distinct worlds of the North Pole and New York City.
Gender: any