By Katy Springer | Greasepaint Youtheatre volunteer

A troupe of Phoenix youth performers is heading to the North Pole — by way of Scottsdale — as Greasepaint Youtheatre presents “Elf Jr.” Dec. 5–14.

Adapted from the hit 2003 film, the family musical blends big laughs, heart and high-energy song-and-dance in a fast-moving show for all ages.

“‘Elf Jr.’ is a joyful, big-hearted reminder of what the holidays are all about — connection, kindness and believing in something bigger than ourselves,” said “Elf Jr.” director Jordan Cline. “It’s full of laughs and lovable characters, but beneath the fun is a message that truly lands this time of year.”

The story follows Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, who travels to New York City to find his father — and to restore a little belief along the way. Beyond Buddy’s elf-level optimism, the plot centers on the Hobbs family — Walter, his wife, Emily, and their son, Michael — whose holiday spirit is running on empty. Buddy’s arrival shakes things up: he falls for Jovie, a tough-on-the-outside New Yorker ready to rediscover wonder, and nudges Walter to choose family over fear when a make-or-break deadline looms.

Onstage, the musical features a book by Tony Award winners Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin, with music by Matthew Sklar and lyrics by Chad Beguelin, the team behind “The Wedding Singer” and “The Prom.” Musical moments like “Happy All the Time,” “There is a Santa Claus” and “I’ll Believe in You” bring Buddy’s outsized cheer to life.

The creative team includes Cline as director, Elise Kurbat as music director, Tawny Audi as choreographer and Taylor Penn as stage manager.

“What makes this cast special is the way they balance go-for-broke comedy with real craft,” Cline said. “They’re delivering crisp harmonies, clean choreography and a shared sense of play that lights up the stage. It’s joyful from first cue to curtain call, and audiences will feel that energy the minute the lights come up.”

The production features performers from across the Valley, including 11 Phoenix youth: Liliana Bell as Matthews; Alfie Christie as Santa; Betsy Chandler as Elf No. 3; Maggie Chandler as Deb; Jozette Fagan as Elf No. 2; Khalia Fagan as Charlotte; Shiloh McDonough as Darlene; Edel Pasquel as Elf No. 4; Joelle Reifler as Jovie; Sam Roalofs as Michael; and Scarlett Shilling as Sarah.

As part of Greasepaint’s commitment to inclusion and accessibility, the company will offer a sensory-friendly performance at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6. Admission is free for qualifying families, and tickets may be requested by emailing Moe Dias-Watson at Moe.Dias@greasepaint.org. The sensory-friendly performance is made possible through a grant from APS. In addition, an ASL-interpreted performance will be presented at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, with interpretation provided by ASL Impact.

Performances of “Elf Jr.” will take place at Greasepaint Youtheatre, 7020 E. Second St. in Scottsdale. Tickets are $25 at greasepaint.org.