Elf the Musical || Lara Mulcahy and Brianna Bishop

The Fame Reporter interviewed incredible Australian theatre performers, Lara Mulcahy and Brianna Bishop starring as Santa/Store Manager and Jovie respectively in the most festive movie turned stage show, Elf The Musical currently playing at Sydney Opera House now until 29 December.

We talked to Lara and Brianna about their favourite holiday traditions, what they enjoy about their characters in Elf The Musical, what it’s like performing at the iconic Sydney Opera House and more.

Can you tell us about your character/ensemble role in Elf the Musical and what drew you to this role?
BRIANNA BISHOP – Jovie: I have been a really huge Zoe Deschanel fan for a very long time. So, to fill her shoes in this production feels particularly like a Christmas gift. I grew up watching her and the role of Jovie feels so relatable, universally relatable I can imagine. I really want to hold that relatability with this role.

Jovie’s authentic way of expressing herself and how Zoe portrayed her, to me is the perfect example of acting.

LARA MULCAHY – Santa/Store Manager: This has to be one of the most joyful and funny musicals around. I love the film and watch it every Christmas! Will Ferrell is one of my all-time favourite comedians.

I love Christmas and go a bit crazy at home with my tree and baking, so I’m excited to be playing Santa (and also a cheeky Store Manager) and share the Christmas joy on-stage!

What is your favourite song or moment in the show, and why?
BB: In the film, the scene where Jovie and Buddy are singing together in the bathroom has never left my brain space. The vulnerability felt as the viewer, watching two souls having a beautiful moment in two very different ways.

I feel the musical so wonderfully captures the intimacy, vulnerability and comedic moments that the film holds.

Again, the scene in the musical where Jovie and Buddy go ice skating and Jovie sings is such a beautiful moment of trust and friendship.

LM: Any interaction with the Store Manager and Buddy!

In the film, I love it when Buddy puts maple syrup all over his spaghetti and adds sugar to everything.

Do you have any silly season traditions or experiences?
BB: My family is Norwegian so we celebrate Christmas Eve instead of Christmas Day, so the whole commercial Christmas Santa thing was never our way of celebrating.

To me Christmas is family together late at night with lots of candles and blueberries. Very “hygge” as we say.

LM: I spend about 4 hours putting up my tree with special ornaments collected over the years. I live in an apartment and my tree is way out of proportion, but I don’t care!

How do you feel about performing at the Sydney Opera House?
BB: It’s a dream come true! Has to be the most common answer but it’s true for a reason. The Opera House is renowned all over the world and I think that global recognisability is what makes it feel so potent.

Almost like touching the stars in the sky, the Opera House has a magical quality that will be forever cherished.

LM: It’s such an iconic venue, I always love performing there.

How do you connect with the themes of joy and kindness in Elf the Musical?
BB: I feel Gareth and I both feel kinship with the roles we have been offered, and to hold them with such love in the company of each other is the real Christmas gift.

The character of Jovie is such a beautiful portrayal of humanity, especially over the Christmas period, a time that can render itself to be as much of a difficult time for so many – even as it can be so beautiful.

I think the impending end to a year can also bring a lot of questioning, doubts, feelings of loneliness and existential ponderings. The end of anything monumental holds a mirror up to all we are. I love this show for these reasons.

Our director Eric is a remarkable human and friend. His care for his craft along with his heart for people is what makes him so special.

There is an unconditional love that the Director, Eric brings to work and the safety that provides for actors to play, enjoy and discover creates the perfect environment for beautiful work.

How did you prepare for this show, and what’s been the most challenging aspect of it?
LM: I love Christmas. I watched the Elf movie again.

I have lots of different coloured Christmas shirts that I wore to rehearsal to keep everyone in the festive mood.

Can you share a memorable or funny behind-the-scenes moment from rehearsals or performances?
LM: When I first put on my wig for the Store Manager, I had to show everyone at rehearsals because it was hilarious. I felt like I was in Kath & Kim. It’s a very very funny wig.

What do you hope the audience takes away from watching Elf the Musical?
LM: Merch… joke! A big smile on their face, and warmth in their heart.