It’s one of the most loved Christmas movies of all time, and now Elf has taken on a new lease of life in an immensely popular West End show. Elf the Musical is on stage now at the Dominion Theatre, starring Kimberley Walsh as Jovie and Ben Forster as Buddy the Elf. We chatted to the stars all about Christmas, the show, and how they’ll be spending the festive season.

What do you like most about Christmas time and why?

Kimberley: Getting all the family together.
Ben: Food, family and presents. It’s the one time of year you can enjoy it all at once!

What character do you identify most with in Elf?

Kimberley: I’m definitely not like Jovie as I love Christmas. Perhaps Mrs Claus!
Ben: Buddy, because he’s a big kid at heart, which everyone is… especially me!

Do you remember the first time you saw the movie Elf?

Kimberley: No, it was years ago but I remember howling with laughter while watching it.
Ben: Yes, the year it came out!

What movies do you love to watch each Christmas?

Kimberley: Santa Claus: The Movie
Ben: Annie, Elf and The Miracle on 34^th Street.

What is your favourite part of Elf the Musical?

Kimberley: Ice-skating in Central Park; it’s such a Christmassy scene
Ben: The end – when the magic happens. I won’t tell you what though, it’ll spoil the fun!

How long does it take you to get into costume/make-up before a show? Do you have any rituals beforehand?

Kimberley: I’ve never been one for rituals. And I get ready in about half an hour.
Ben: About 30 minutes. Always need a nice cup of tea and a gossip with my dresser Georgia.

What do you love about Christmas in London?

Kimberley: It’s such a beautiful city when it’s all decorated.
Ben: I love the lights, Regent’s Street and a trip to Winter Wonderland to get in the Christmassy mood.

If you could spend Christmas anywhere in the world, where would you go? What would be your ideal Christmas?

Kimberley: I love nothing more than being at home for Christmas.
Ben: Always at home in the Lake District. It’s high up, beautiful with guaranteed snow.

How will you be spending Christmas Day?

Kimberley: At home with my family.
Ben: With my family in London.

You can watch the trailer for the show below...

The show is running until January 2^nd, and you can see more info at www.dominiontheatre.com/theatre/elf/. The Bloomsbury is just seconds from the theatre, where you can enjoy a pre-theatre dinner or afternoon tea.