December 11, 2025 • 21 mins
“It’s just nice to meet another human who shares my affinity for elf culture.”
While that may be a quote from the movie, "Elf", it’s also the truth. Gina is a huge fan of the movie and elf culture! While she's yet to see its musical counterpart, she was thrilled to have the chance to speak with Buddy himself, actor Dustin Ceithamer who is portraying the lead in the "Elf, the Musical" at Surflight Theatre in Beach Haven this December.
Directed and choreographed by Paula Hammons Sloan, the show is a fun holiday romp for the whole family and an exciting adaptation of a holiday classic. Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin are responsible for the musical score and the book was adapted by Bob Martin and Thomas Meehan.
On today’s episode, Gina and Dustin chat about all things Elf, of course, and his experiences in both theater and film, including his tenure as a member of the Star Wars empire.
What it’s like to be one of the coolest people in the galaxy?
Thanks for listening!
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (00:03):
This is Gina Marie Rodriguez, and you're
listening to the Jersey Artspodcast.
You know, it's just nice tomeet another human who shares my
affinity for elf culture.
While that may be a quote fromthe movie Elf, it's also the
truth.
I'm a huge fan of the movie andelf culture.
And while I've yet to see itsmusical counterpart, I was
(00:24):
thrilled to have the chance tospeak with Buddy himself, actor
Dustin Ceithamer, who'sportraying the lead in elf
musical at Surflight Theater inBeachhaven this December.
Directed and choreographed byPaula Hammond Sloan, this show
is a fun holiday romp for thewhole family and an exciting
adaptation of a holiday classic.
Matthew Sklar and Chad Beglinare responsible for the musical
(00:45):
score, and the book was adaptedby Bob Martin and Thomas Mehan.
And on today's episode, Dustinand I chat about all things elf,
of course, and his experiencesin both theater and film,
including his tenure as a memberof the Star Wars Empire.
And guys, I couldn't help butstart there.
I just had to know what it'slike to be one of the coolest
(01:05):
people in the galaxy.
Stick around.
You'll see.
So yeah, Star Wars.
What's it like to be one of thecool people?
Dustin Ceithamer (01:15):
Oh, it's, you know, people always ask, you
know, like, was it a dream cometrue to be part of Star Wars?
And the answer is no, because Ididn't know you could dream
that big.
Like, I honestly, you know, yousee something like Star Wars
and it's so unattainable.
It's, you know, it's just thisother universe that, you know,
you you grew up watching andloving, and it's so part of our
(01:37):
culture.
Um, that you you just don'tthink you could ever be a part
of it other than being a fan.
And so then when you have theopportunity to audition for it,
and then you're getting pastlike several interviews, and all
of a sudden it's like you andanother person, you're like,
wait, this could this reallyhappen?
Is this my life?
And it's truly one of the mostexciting experiences.
(01:59):
I really feel like Charlie andthe Chocolate Factory, when he
gets that golden ticket, I feellike Star Wars was my gold
ticket.
It it just to be to be invitedto be a part of that universe
was it was a dream come true.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (02:12):
A dream you didn't know you had.
That's so cool.
Dustin Ceithamer (02:15):
Yeah.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (02:16):
And I I mean, again, like I said, I I
mostly know the original movies,but I feel like your character
may have saved Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Did that happen?
Am I correct?
Dustin Ceithamer (02:25):
You know, it's been far enough that I think I
can give a couple spoilers, butyeah, my um my character just
had a hero heart and um savedObi-Wan Kenobi from a couple
precarious situations a coupletimes, but I did get to like
cradle you and McGregor in myarms.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (02:42):
Oh my god.
Dustin Ceithamer (02:43):
Now that's that was also a dream come true.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (02:45):
I was gonna say that's the real dream
there.
I'm a little bit envious.
Dustin Ceithamer (02:49):
Yeah, I got to um they, you know, they film
with Star Wars, every detail isso important.
Um, they are meticulous on set.
And because of that, thefilming takes longer than a
normal filming, and you dothings from a million angles.
You know, sometimes um I haveworked on soap operas soap
operas before, and they move soquick that they, you know, maybe
we'll get the shot from oneangle.
(03:11):
They're like, okay, we got whatwe need, moving on.
But with Star Wars, becausethey're creating something so
paramount, um, they get it fromlike a million angles.
And so the days are very, verylong.
But because of that, um, youget to know your co-stars very,
very well, and you get a lot oftime on set with them.
And it just, it was such amagical experience.
(03:33):
But Ewan McGregor is as cool asyou hope he is.
Like he he does not disappoint.
He's one of those guys whoknows everyone's name on set.
Um, he treats everyone withsuch respect and just is there
to have a good time.
But then when they, you know,with say cameras rolling, he
locks in and you just you seehis work ethic, and he's just a
(03:53):
delight to work with on so manylevels.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (03:56):
That's such a relief.
You know, you always fear likethere's the saying, never meet
your heroes.
So whenever I do hear thatsomeone has met a celebrity
who's actually a genuinely niceperson, I get just really
excited, and I I love to hearthat.
So thank you for sharing.
But we won't make this a stanaccount about uh Ewan McGregor
as much as I want to.
(04:17):
I I wanted to, I guess youmentioned the soap operas, so I
do want to talk about like thatextreme parallel between what
you just said about the longdays on set for Star Wars versus
how quick they move on soapoperas versus what it is to be
in theater, because they are allvery, very different things,
(04:38):
and you kind of have you knowone foot in each.
Not that you have three feet,but you know what I mean.
Dustin Ceithamer (04:44):
Um sometimes I have two left feet, but I
that's a story for another day.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (04:48):
Says the choreographer.
That's crazy.
Talk to me about that though.
Like what how do you did youfirst fall in love with theater
before you fell in love withfilm, or what was your
trajectory?
Dustin Ceithamer (05:00):
You know, that's uh I I think you're it's
a very interesting observationbecause the final product is
very similar.
When you watch a movie or asoap opera, or you know, you go
to see a play, the you know,it's entertainment, they're
telling a story, but the mediumsof art are very, very
different.
Um, and yeah, they they theyseem similar and there are like
(05:24):
there is crossover, but um it isa very different medium.
I grew up doing musicaltheater.
Um, you know, I sang in mychurch choir, and my church was
kind of progressive at the time,and we had a drama team, so I
got to be part of that.
And then in school I was partof a choir.
Um, and then we would do, youknow, these kind of I use this
loosely, but like musicals, youknow, at my school.
(05:46):
And um I just I always had kindof a flair for the dramatic and
you know, was like affirmed inthat area by teachers and I had
a good memory so I couldmemorize quickly, and so they
would give me lines and I wasdependable that way.
And um, so I just kind of grewup doing, you know, I was around
music and theater.
And um, by the time I was maybefifth or sixth grade, um
(06:08):
started doing community theater,and uh that's where I really
got the bug.
Just I I found out that youcould sing and dance and act all
at the same time.
And I was on sensory overload,and this was like the coolest
thing in the world to me.
So I, you know, just reallydove in.
Um, and it wasn't until alittle later, maybe my um early
20s, that I started doingcommercials and extra work and
(06:31):
started uh dabbling in the filmworld.
Um, but then the trajectorykind of went off from theirs.
But yeah, I started doingmusical theater, so I'm I'm
really coming back to my rootsbeing an elf.
Um, it's actually been a whilesince I have done a lot of film
and television in the last 10years.
And so coming back to livetheater, it's kicking my butt in
the best kind of way.
It's so satisfying as an artistbecause you really feel like
(06:54):
you're firing on all cylinders.
You know, I'm having to singand do really complex
choreography, and you have tomemorize all of the lines at
once where you know, when you doa movie, you just go scene by
scene and exactly get a break.
We have to do this all in onetake every night, and that's a
lot of pressure.
And I definitely feel, youknow, those excited, nervous
(07:17):
feelings at the beginning ofevery show.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (07:19):
I I mean, gosh, I haven't done theater in
such a long time, so I I can'teven pretend to know what you're
going through right now.
But since since ELF started asa movie, I think that's a great
segue.
Did you were you a fan of thefilm before you saw the show?
Is this your first time, yourfirst experience with the
(07:40):
musical, or uh, what is yourrelationship to e.f.
Both the movie and the musical?
Dustin Ceithamer (07:45):
ELF is such a heartwarming story.
I just love I I've always beena fan of the movie, just so
funny.
There's so many iconic lines.
Um, and evidence is that it'sjust so many t-shirts.
You walk around and you justsee people wearing t-shirts,
like I, you know, I'm smiling,or you know, Santa, I know him.
And just these like, or hi, Mr.
Norwal.
(08:06):
You know, like there's justthese like super iconic lines.
Um, it's a very quotable movie.
So I've I've been a fan, butthis is actually my first kind
of exposure to the musical, um,which is so wonderful.
It the adaptation was writtenby uh a man named Thomas Meehan
who took the you know film tothe stage, and it's such a
(08:26):
smart, witty, fast-paced.
The the pace of it is so fun.
Um, it's very contemporary, alot of jokes, um,
multi-generational jokes.
So, like things for kids,things for adults, um,
basically, you know, things forgrandmas, any anyone you bring
to to the show is gonna have agood time.
There's a little something foreveryone in it, but it's it's
(08:48):
such a wonderfully written,constructed, crafted musical.
It's such an honor to get toperform it.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (08:55):
I'm so jealous.
I wish I could see it.
And like I said, I I've neverseen the show before, but I was
listening to the soundtrackbefore talking to you.
Uh, and I think I found my newfavorite pep talk, and it's just
to thine own elf be true.
Yes.
I'm gonna be stealing thatbecause it's more fun to say
than you know, to thine ownself.
I would rather be an elf.
(09:16):
So that's what I'll be sayingmoving forward.
Pep talks in the mirror, tothine own elf be true.
Dustin Ceithamer (09:21):
Thy own elf be true.
I love that.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (09:23):
I'll be stealing it.
That and um sparkle jollytinkle jingly.
Dustin Ceithamer (09:27):
Yeah.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (09:27):
I think I think that's just a fun thing to
say.
So I'll be stealing that aswell.
Why not?
Dustin Ceithamer (09:32):
It sure is.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (09:33):
Do you have a favorite song?
That's always such an unfairthing to ask a performer, but I
ask it anyway.
Do you have a favorite songfrom the show?
Dustin Ceithamer (09:40):
You know, there is a um the opening of act
two.
There's so many great songs,first of all.
The music in the show is it'speppy, it's fun.
I I've watched some interviewswith the people who wrote it,
and just they said, we want tocreate a classic Christmas
score.
So it really has like a bigband feel.
Um, it's contemporary sounding,so it's very accessible, but it
has this kind of nostalgic,like, I've heard these songs
(10:03):
before.
Um, it's very reminiscent ofold Broadway.
If you like big, smatchy, youknow, Broadway shows, this is a
show for you.
Um, but the opening of act twois um it's such a fun number
with all the Santa Claus.
There's like all the the SantaClauses who are at Macy's and
you know, the department stores,they come together and they
(10:23):
sing kind of a no respect forSanta Claus type song.
And it's such a fun song tosing every night.
But yeah, the big opening ofact two is a great way to get
the audience back into the swingof the show.
It's I it's probably one of myfavorite numbers.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (10:38):
I love that.
And now our our listeners knowwhat they should be looking
forward to in act two.
So don't forget to come backfrom the bathroom, guys.
Dustin Ceithamer (10:45):
Yes, grab a snack and then come back.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (10:48):
Exactly.
I also wanted to talk to you.
We'll come back to Elf in asecond, but I wanted to talk to
you about your experience as acomposer yourself because you've
you've composed andartistically produced at least
six, I want to say, sixfull-length musicals.
So talk to me about what it isto have been a creator yourself
versus having to jump intosomeone else's creation.
Dustin Ceithamer (11:11):
Yeah.
So um, I had mentioned beforethat I grew up doing community
theater, and I I think that thatwas such like I jumped into
very ambitious communitytheater.
So we were doing all originalmusicals at the theater that I
was raised at.
It's called the LifehouseTheater in Southern California.
So they have a repertoire oflike 52, I think, original
(11:35):
musicals they do, um, kind of inrotation.
And they're always adding newones.
And so, as a you know, a15-year-old kid, um, you know,
every business is uhshort-staffed and underpaid and
overworked.
And that's true in communitytheater, you know, a lot of
people, a few people wear a lotof hats.
And so if you show propensityin any direction, they're like,
please help us.
(11:55):
So, because of that, um, at ayoung age, I got to work in the
tech booth, you know, I got todo spotlights, I got to help
paint scenery, I got to um learnabout costume construction and
design.
And um, but because we werealso writing original musicals,
I got to kind of watch theseoriginal musicals being created.
(12:17):
So I really was like, oh, Istarted off just maybe writing a
song or two and then submittingit to the you know, the
artistic director, and maybe onewould be okayed every now and
then.
We're like, yeah, we'll putthis in the show.
And that was so exciting.
Um, and then I, as I got alittle older, I was like, I
think I could write a wholemusical.
So I started like, you know,putting it together and um under
the men's mentorship of likeWayne R.
(12:38):
Scott, he was, you know, likehelping me shape, you know, and
just learning structure andflow.
And um before you know it, youhave a whole musical written,
you know, just little by little.
But I'm really grateful forcommunity theater because I
really think it's such a gift tothe community, um, you know,
just to be able to come and seea show.
But then also for the people init, it gives them an
(12:59):
opportunity to expresscreativity, to build confidence,
especially kids.
You know, it's it's hard to bea kid and you know, find your
voice.
And I think theater reallyhelps you be a part of a team,
learn teamwork and cooperation,and people are depending on you
for things or responsibility.
Um, but then it's also a greatcreative expression.
Um, so but that was kind of myjourney and into writing.
(13:21):
Um, and I just continue to doit as I got older and um just
kept writing.
And I've been very fortunate tohave my work produced, which is
like such a fun thing to see.
Um, but jumping into someoneelse's work is such a gift, too,
because the only thing you haveto do is memorize your lines
and show up for rehearsal, youknow, the pressure of like
figuring it out or solving theproblem.
And ELF is such a wonderfulshow to jump into because it is
(13:45):
so well crafted.
Uh, like I mentioned, the pace,it just keeps moving, you know,
it everything there's so manyfun jokes.
Um the audience is laughingalmost continuously.
It's such a fun, lightheartedmusical to jump into.
And I think anyone who comessee the show at Surflight is
gonna just have a wonderfulnight out or a wonderful, you
(14:06):
know, a matinee.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (14:08):
Yeah, that sounds so I mean, it sounds
like it's fair to call it afaithful adaptation.
Would we say it's fairlyfaithful to the film?
Dustin Ceithamer (14:17):
Yeah, you know, the the things that you
love about Elf are all in it.
Um, you know, they of coursethere's some things that you
probably can't do on stage, youknow, that they do with like
some movie magic and CGI.
Um, so they had to, you know,adapt it to the stage, but it it
tells the story in such abeautiful way.
The heart of the story is stillthere.
One of my most favorite thingsabout the show is just um Buddy,
(14:40):
the character I play, is sowholesome.
You know, it it's a story aboutsomeone who was raised in a
culture who finds themselves inanother culture.
And, you know, I think we canall relate to that at some
point, you know, like we'reraised in our homes, and then
maybe we move to New York or wemove into a corporate position,
or you know, you go to collegefor the first time, or you know,
(15:01):
just these differentexperiences where you find
yourself in a culture that's notthe one you were raised in.
And, you know, it's a showabout culture shock, and some of
the humor is just how innocentand wholesome buddy is, you
know, maneuvering this journey.
And it's so fun to play justthat like innocence and you
know, purity of heart.
(15:21):
And that's what that's where alot of the comedy stems from,
you know, just him reacting tothis completely different world.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (15:27):
You explain that so well, and I I
feel like I would be remiss if Ididn't bring up the fact that,
you know, Buddy himself is kindof like the the odd man out when
he's growing up as well.
In both worlds, he's the oddman out, but he is a very tall
human among elves.
And I I have to point out thatyou yourself are quite tall.
(15:50):
What are you are you six eight?
Dustin Ceithamer (15:53):
That is correct.
You've really done, I just wantto say you've done some really
great research um you know,preparing for this interview.
Yes, I am I am six foot eight.
Um, and yeah, I just sophysically I kind of relate to
not, you know, fitting in a bedand not fitting in a shower or
on an airplane or you know, in acar, and just these things that
make life a little difficultfor someone who's a little out
(16:14):
of place.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (16:15):
Yeah, I mean, I can't even imagine.
I'm five two for reference.
So a little bit different thanyou.
I fit everywhere.
You could stuff me in a hole inthe wall and I would fit.
But I think that must that mustbe so great for you as an actor
because you can relate to yourcharacter in a way that maybe
you know, someone who's fivefive can't, right?
(16:38):
But I I love this the story,the mission of elf, because it
is about being accepting.
And you know, I I grew up well,I actually I'm not that not
that young.
So like the movie was out whenI was older.
But I'm saying I I feel likeI've grown up with ELF.
It was just such an importantfilm to me because it is about
joy, but it's about acceptance,and it sounds like the musical
(17:01):
has achieved that just as well.
Dustin Ceithamer (17:04):
Very much so.
Yeah, the heart of the thethings that you love about the
movie are here on stage um seventimes a week or six times a
week at Surflight.
So yeah, come out and see it,and it's the your heart will
totally be warmed and you'lljust have a great night out.
And if you have kids, bringthem.
If you have, you know, seniorcitizens in your house, bring
them.
It really is a likemulti-generational fun show to
(17:26):
bring people to.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (17:27):
I love that.
I'm really excited.
I hope our listeners are gonnabuy their tickets immediately.
That's the goal, guys.
Go out and see Elf, themusical, at Surflight in
Beachhaven.
Dustin Ceithamer (17:37):
You know, the other thing, um, I was getting
tickets for my family who'sgonna be coming, you know, which
is so exciting.
Um, but there's so manyperformances that are already
sold out.
And so if it if this issomething that the audience is
like curious about or would liketo come see, it's kind of an
act now situation.
There's some performances thatonly have maybe two or three
seats.
Um, there's a few that stillhave like, you know, could
(17:59):
accommodate a group, but thetickets are honestly when I say
like hurry now, it's not amarketing scheme, it's the
truth.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (18:06):
Yeah, no, I I want people to get their
tickets immediately.
Like I said, I won't be able togo, I'll be out of state.
So that's one more seat freefor you guys.
Otherwise, I would have alreadysnatched up my ticket.
But I I wish you guys wait, no,I can't wish actors luck.
Break break legs.
That's that's one thing.
Dustin Ceithamer (18:21):
Yeah, you can break legs.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (18:22):
I had to stop myself.
Dustin Ceithamer (18:24):
But I think I don't want anyone to wish me
that because oh gosh.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (18:28):
I don't know what to say.
Have a great idea.
Dustin Ceithamer (18:30):
No, break legs, break legs, it's very
appropriate.
Very appropriate.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (18:34):
Yeah, I've always found that a strange
good luck token anyway.
Like, because why would youwish that on someone?
I don't know the history of it.
We won't go into it.
Either way, I want you to havea great show.
I know that people are gonnaenjoy this, and I know that
you're gonna be the best buddy.
I can already tell that you'regonna be the best buddy because
you already embody his joy andhis exuberance.
And it was really lovelyspeaking with you.
Dustin Ceithamer (18:55):
Oh, such a pleasure to speak.
Thank you for having me on yourshow.
And I just love that you'rejust bringing awareness to these
wonderful businesses.
Like Surflight has been aroundfor uh like 70 years.
It's like it really is acommunity staple and it's such
an important piece of like theBeach Haven culture.
Um, something else I just willmention, like such a great way
to be a part of like theSurflight family is to buy
(19:16):
season tickets.
Um, you know, I was mentioningearlier that tickets are hard to
get, but if you buy a seasonticket, um, the price point, you
know, you get a deal, but thenyou also are guaranteed a seat
for some of these busier shows.
It's a great insider littleinformation.
And the the season, they justannounced a new season coming
up, Guys and Dolls.
There's just really somethingfor everyone.
Young Frankenstein, um, apretty woman, Ghost, um, some
(19:39):
really great musicals thataren't produced a lot regionally
are coming to surflight thisnext season.
So the audiences, oh, andHoliday Inn is the the show
that's going to be nextChristmas.
So if you like like any ofthose shows, grab a season
ticket, um, grab a friend, andthen just come have just a fun
night of theater and supportsome local businesses here.
There's so many cute cafes andshops uh in Beachhaven.
So yeah, it's really a a fun,fun date night, fun just night
(20:04):
out.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (20:05):
I love that so much.
You're a great actor and agreat salesman.
So everybody knows they need toget their tickets now.
Thank you.
Dustin Ceithamer (20:13):
Yeah, I'm glad to be part of the Sri Plate
family now.
They can't get rid of me.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (20:17):
No, and nor would they want to, Dustin.
That is crazy.
Crazy.
Crazy.
Isn't he such a delight?
I feel like I really did justmeet an Elf.
And I mean that as the highestof compliments.
Dustin is just the most joyousperson to speak with.
And you can see him in Elf theMusical, running through
December 21st at the SurflightTheater in Beachhaven.
(20:40):
For tickets and moreinformation, be sure to visit
Surflight.org.
And be quick about it.
The show was almost entirelysold out at the time of
recording.
If you liked this episode, besure to review, subscribe, and
tell your friends.
A transcript of this podcast,links relevant to the story, and
more about the arts in NewJersey can be found at
jerseyarts.com.
The JerseyArts Podcast ispresented by Art Pride New
(21:02):
Jersey, advancing a state ofcreativity since 1986.
The show was co-founded by andcurrently supported by funds
from the New Jersey StateCouncil on the Arts.
This episode was hosted,edited, and produced by me, Gina
Marie Rodriguez.
Executive producers are JimAtkinson and Isaac Serna-Diez.
And my thanks, of course, toDustin Seithammer for speaking
(21:22):
with me today.
I'm Gina Marie Rodriguez forthe Jersey Arts Podcast.
Thanks for listening and happyholidays.
This is Gina Marie Rodriguez, and you're
listening to the Jersey Artspodcast.
You know, it's just nice tomeet another human who shares my
affinity for elf culture.
While that may be a quote fromthe movie Elf, it's also the
truth.
I'm a huge fan of the movie andelf culture.
And while I've yet to see itsmusical counterpart, I was
(00:24):
thrilled to have the chance tospeak with Buddy himself, actor
Dustin Ceithamer, who'sportraying the lead in elf
musical at Surflight Theater inBeachhaven this December.
Directed and choreographed byPaula Hammond Sloan, this show
is a fun holiday romp for thewhole family and an exciting
adaptation of a holiday classic.
Matthew Sklar and Chad Beglinare responsible for the musical
(00:45):
score, and the book was adaptedby Bob Martin and Thomas Mehan.
And on today's episode, Dustinand I chat about all things elf,
of course, and his experiencesin both theater and film,
including his tenure as a memberof the Star Wars Empire.
And guys, I couldn't help butstart there.
I just had to know what it'slike to be one of the coolest
(01:05):
people in the galaxy.
Stick around.
You'll see.
So yeah, Star Wars.
What's it like to be one of thecool people?
Dustin Ceithamer (01:15):
Oh, it's, you know, people always ask, you
know, like, was it a dream cometrue to be part of Star Wars?
And the answer is no, because Ididn't know you could dream
that big.
Like, I honestly, you know, yousee something like Star Wars
and it's so unattainable.
It's, you know, it's just thisother universe that, you know,
you you grew up watching andloving, and it's so part of our
(01:37):
culture.
Um, that you you just don'tthink you could ever be a part
of it other than being a fan.
And so then when you have theopportunity to audition for it,
and then you're getting pastlike several interviews, and all
of a sudden it's like you andanother person, you're like,
wait, this could this reallyhappen?
Is this my life?
And it's truly one of the mostexciting experiences.
(01:59):
I really feel like Charlie andthe Chocolate Factory, when he
gets that golden ticket, I feellike Star Wars was my gold
ticket.
It it just to be to be invitedto be a part of that universe
was it was a dream come true.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (02:12):
A dream you didn't know you had.
That's so cool.
Dustin Ceithamer (02:15):
Yeah.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (02:16):
And I I mean, again, like I said, I I
mostly know the original movies,but I feel like your character
may have saved Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Did that happen?
Am I correct?
Dustin Ceithamer (02:25):
You know, it's been far enough that I think I
can give a couple spoilers, butyeah, my um my character just
had a hero heart and um savedObi-Wan Kenobi from a couple
precarious situations a coupletimes, but I did get to like
cradle you and McGregor in myarms.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (02:42):
Oh my god.
Dustin Ceithamer (02:43):
Now that's that was also a dream come true.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (02:45):
I was gonna say that's the real dream
there.
I'm a little bit envious.
Dustin Ceithamer (02:49):
Yeah, I got to um they, you know, they film
with Star Wars, every detail isso important.
Um, they are meticulous on set.
And because of that, thefilming takes longer than a
normal filming, and you dothings from a million angles.
You know, sometimes um I haveworked on soap operas soap
operas before, and they move soquick that they, you know, maybe
we'll get the shot from oneangle.
(03:11):
They're like, okay, we got whatwe need, moving on.
But with Star Wars, becausethey're creating something so
paramount, um, they get it fromlike a million angles.
And so the days are very, verylong.
But because of that, um, youget to know your co-stars very,
very well, and you get a lot oftime on set with them.
And it just, it was such amagical experience.
(03:33):
But Ewan McGregor is as cool asyou hope he is.
Like he he does not disappoint.
He's one of those guys whoknows everyone's name on set.
Um, he treats everyone withsuch respect and just is there
to have a good time.
But then when they, you know,with say cameras rolling, he
locks in and you just you seehis work ethic, and he's just a
(03:53):
delight to work with on so manylevels.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (03:56):
That's such a relief.
You know, you always fear likethere's the saying, never meet
your heroes.
So whenever I do hear thatsomeone has met a celebrity
who's actually a genuinely niceperson, I get just really
excited, and I I love to hearthat.
So thank you for sharing.
But we won't make this a stanaccount about uh Ewan McGregor
as much as I want to.
(04:17):
I I wanted to, I guess youmentioned the soap operas, so I
do want to talk about like thatextreme parallel between what
you just said about the longdays on set for Star Wars versus
how quick they move on soapoperas versus what it is to be
in theater, because they are allvery, very different things,
(04:38):
and you kind of have you knowone foot in each.
Not that you have three feet,but you know what I mean.
Dustin Ceithamer (04:44):
Um sometimes I have two left feet, but I
that's a story for another day.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (04:48):
Says the choreographer.
That's crazy.
Talk to me about that though.
Like what how do you did youfirst fall in love with theater
before you fell in love withfilm, or what was your
trajectory?
Dustin Ceithamer (05:00):
You know, that's uh I I think you're it's
a very interesting observationbecause the final product is
very similar.
When you watch a movie or asoap opera, or you know, you go
to see a play, the you know,it's entertainment, they're
telling a story, but the mediumsof art are very, very
different.
Um, and yeah, they they theyseem similar and there are like
(05:24):
there is crossover, but um it isa very different medium.
I grew up doing musicaltheater.
Um, you know, I sang in mychurch choir, and my church was
kind of progressive at the time,and we had a drama team, so I
got to be part of that.
And then in school I was partof a choir.
Um, and then we would do, youknow, these kind of I use this
loosely, but like musicals, youknow, at my school.
(05:46):
And um I just I always had kindof a flair for the dramatic and
you know, was like affirmed inthat area by teachers and I had
a good memory so I couldmemorize quickly, and so they
would give me lines and I wasdependable that way.
And um, so I just kind of grewup doing, you know, I was around
music and theater.
And um, by the time I was maybefifth or sixth grade, um
(06:08):
started doing community theater,and uh that's where I really
got the bug.
Just I I found out that youcould sing and dance and act all
at the same time.
And I was on sensory overload,and this was like the coolest
thing in the world to me.
So I, you know, just reallydove in.
Um, and it wasn't until alittle later, maybe my um early
20s, that I started doingcommercials and extra work and
(06:31):
started uh dabbling in the filmworld.
Um, but then the trajectorykind of went off from theirs.
But yeah, I started doingmusical theater, so I'm I'm
really coming back to my rootsbeing an elf.
Um, it's actually been a whilesince I have done a lot of film
and television in the last 10years.
And so coming back to livetheater, it's kicking my butt in
the best kind of way.
It's so satisfying as an artistbecause you really feel like
(06:54):
you're firing on all cylinders.
You know, I'm having to singand do really complex
choreography, and you have tomemorize all of the lines at
once where you know, when you doa movie, you just go scene by
scene and exactly get a break.
We have to do this all in onetake every night, and that's a
lot of pressure.
And I definitely feel, youknow, those excited, nervous
(07:17):
feelings at the beginning ofevery show.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (07:19):
I I mean, gosh, I haven't done theater in
such a long time, so I I can'teven pretend to know what you're
going through right now.
But since since ELF started asa movie, I think that's a great
segue.
Did you were you a fan of thefilm before you saw the show?
Is this your first time, yourfirst experience with the
(07:40):
musical, or uh, what is yourrelationship to e.f.
Both the movie and the musical?
Dustin Ceithamer (07:45):
ELF is such a heartwarming story.
I just love I I've always beena fan of the movie, just so
funny.
There's so many iconic lines.
Um, and evidence is that it'sjust so many t-shirts.
You walk around and you justsee people wearing t-shirts,
like I, you know, I'm smiling,or you know, Santa, I know him.
And just these like, or hi, Mr.
Norwal.
(08:06):
You know, like there's justthese like super iconic lines.
Um, it's a very quotable movie.
So I've I've been a fan, butthis is actually my first kind
of exposure to the musical, um,which is so wonderful.
It the adaptation was writtenby uh a man named Thomas Meehan
who took the you know film tothe stage, and it's such a
(08:26):
smart, witty, fast-paced.
The the pace of it is so fun.
Um, it's very contemporary, alot of jokes, um,
multi-generational jokes.
So, like things for kids,things for adults, um,
basically, you know, things forgrandmas, any anyone you bring
to to the show is gonna have agood time.
There's a little something foreveryone in it, but it's it's
(08:48):
such a wonderfully written,constructed, crafted musical.
It's such an honor to get toperform it.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (08:55):
I'm so jealous.
I wish I could see it.
And like I said, I I've neverseen the show before, but I was
listening to the soundtrackbefore talking to you.
Uh, and I think I found my newfavorite pep talk, and it's just
to thine own elf be true.
Yes.
I'm gonna be stealing thatbecause it's more fun to say
than you know, to thine ownself.
I would rather be an elf.
(09:16):
So that's what I'll be sayingmoving forward.
Pep talks in the mirror, tothine own elf be true.
Dustin Ceithamer (09:21):
Thy own elf be true.
I love that.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (09:23):
I'll be stealing it.
That and um sparkle jollytinkle jingly.
Dustin Ceithamer (09:27):
Yeah.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (09:27):
I think I think that's just a fun thing to
say.
So I'll be stealing that aswell.
Why not?
Dustin Ceithamer (09:32):
It sure is.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (09:33):
Do you have a favorite song?
That's always such an unfairthing to ask a performer, but I
ask it anyway.
Do you have a favorite songfrom the show?
Dustin Ceithamer (09:40):
You know, there is a um the opening of act
two.
There's so many great songs,first of all.
The music in the show is it'speppy, it's fun.
I I've watched some interviewswith the people who wrote it,
and just they said, we want tocreate a classic Christmas
score.
So it really has like a bigband feel.
Um, it's contemporary sounding,so it's very accessible, but it
has this kind of nostalgic,like, I've heard these songs
(10:03):
before.
Um, it's very reminiscent ofold Broadway.
If you like big, smatchy, youknow, Broadway shows, this is a
show for you.
Um, but the opening of act twois um it's such a fun number
with all the Santa Claus.
There's like all the the SantaClauses who are at Macy's and
you know, the department stores,they come together and they
(10:23):
sing kind of a no respect forSanta Claus type song.
And it's such a fun song tosing every night.
But yeah, the big opening ofact two is a great way to get
the audience back into the swingof the show.
It's I it's probably one of myfavorite numbers.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (10:38):
I love that.
And now our our listeners knowwhat they should be looking
forward to in act two.
So don't forget to come backfrom the bathroom, guys.
Dustin Ceithamer (10:45):
Yes, grab a snack and then come back.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (10:48):
Exactly.
I also wanted to talk to you.
We'll come back to Elf in asecond, but I wanted to talk to
you about your experience as acomposer yourself because you've
you've composed andartistically produced at least
six, I want to say, sixfull-length musicals.
So talk to me about what it isto have been a creator yourself
versus having to jump intosomeone else's creation.
Dustin Ceithamer (11:11):
Yeah.
So um, I had mentioned beforethat I grew up doing community
theater, and I I think that thatwas such like I jumped into
very ambitious communitytheater.
So we were doing all originalmusicals at the theater that I
was raised at.
It's called the LifehouseTheater in Southern California.
So they have a repertoire oflike 52, I think, original
(11:35):
musicals they do, um, kind of inrotation.
And they're always adding newones.
And so, as a you know, a15-year-old kid, um, you know,
every business is uhshort-staffed and underpaid and
overworked.
And that's true in communitytheater, you know, a lot of
people, a few people wear a lotof hats.
And so if you show propensityin any direction, they're like,
please help us.
(11:55):
So, because of that, um, at ayoung age, I got to work in the
tech booth, you know, I got todo spotlights, I got to help
paint scenery, I got to um learnabout costume construction and
design.
And um, but because we werealso writing original musicals,
I got to kind of watch theseoriginal musicals being created.
(12:17):
So I really was like, oh, Istarted off just maybe writing a
song or two and then submittingit to the you know, the
artistic director, and maybe onewould be okayed every now and
then.
We're like, yeah, we'll putthis in the show.
And that was so exciting.
Um, and then I, as I got alittle older, I was like, I
think I could write a wholemusical.
So I started like, you know,putting it together and um under
the men's mentorship of likeWayne R.
(12:38):
Scott, he was, you know, likehelping me shape, you know, and
just learning structure andflow.
And um before you know it, youhave a whole musical written,
you know, just little by little.
But I'm really grateful forcommunity theater because I
really think it's such a gift tothe community, um, you know,
just to be able to come and seea show.
But then also for the people init, it gives them an
(12:59):
opportunity to expresscreativity, to build confidence,
especially kids.
You know, it's it's hard to bea kid and you know, find your
voice.
And I think theater reallyhelps you be a part of a team,
learn teamwork and cooperation,and people are depending on you
for things or responsibility.
Um, but then it's also a greatcreative expression.
Um, so but that was kind of myjourney and into writing.
(13:21):
Um, and I just continue to doit as I got older and um just
kept writing.
And I've been very fortunate tohave my work produced, which is
like such a fun thing to see.
Um, but jumping into someoneelse's work is such a gift, too,
because the only thing you haveto do is memorize your lines
and show up for rehearsal, youknow, the pressure of like
figuring it out or solving theproblem.
And ELF is such a wonderfulshow to jump into because it is
(13:45):
so well crafted.
Uh, like I mentioned, the pace,it just keeps moving, you know,
it everything there's so manyfun jokes.
Um the audience is laughingalmost continuously.
It's such a fun, lightheartedmusical to jump into.
And I think anyone who comessee the show at Surflight is
gonna just have a wonderfulnight out or a wonderful, you
(14:06):
know, a matinee.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (14:08):
Yeah, that sounds so I mean, it sounds
like it's fair to call it afaithful adaptation.
Would we say it's fairlyfaithful to the film?
Dustin Ceithamer (14:17):
Yeah, you know, the the things that you
love about Elf are all in it.
Um, you know, they of coursethere's some things that you
probably can't do on stage, youknow, that they do with like
some movie magic and CGI.
Um, so they had to, you know,adapt it to the stage, but it it
tells the story in such abeautiful way.
The heart of the story is stillthere.
One of my most favorite thingsabout the show is just um Buddy,
(14:40):
the character I play, is sowholesome.
You know, it it's a story aboutsomeone who was raised in a
culture who finds themselves inanother culture.
And, you know, I think we canall relate to that at some
point, you know, like we'reraised in our homes, and then
maybe we move to New York or wemove into a corporate position,
or you know, you go to collegefor the first time, or you know,
(15:01):
just these differentexperiences where you find
yourself in a culture that's notthe one you were raised in.
And, you know, it's a showabout culture shock, and some of
the humor is just how innocentand wholesome buddy is, you
know, maneuvering this journey.
And it's so fun to play justthat like innocence and you
know, purity of heart.
(15:21):
And that's what that's where alot of the comedy stems from,
you know, just him reacting tothis completely different world.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (15:27):
You explain that so well, and I I
feel like I would be remiss if Ididn't bring up the fact that,
you know, Buddy himself is kindof like the the odd man out when
he's growing up as well.
In both worlds, he's the oddman out, but he is a very tall
human among elves.
And I I have to point out thatyou yourself are quite tall.
(15:50):
What are you are you six eight?
Dustin Ceithamer (15:53):
That is correct.
You've really done, I just wantto say you've done some really
great research um you know,preparing for this interview.
Yes, I am I am six foot eight.
Um, and yeah, I just sophysically I kind of relate to
not, you know, fitting in a bedand not fitting in a shower or
on an airplane or you know, in acar, and just these things that
make life a little difficultfor someone who's a little out
(16:14):
of place.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (16:15):
Yeah, I mean, I can't even imagine.
I'm five two for reference.
So a little bit different thanyou.
I fit everywhere.
You could stuff me in a hole inthe wall and I would fit.
But I think that must that mustbe so great for you as an actor
because you can relate to yourcharacter in a way that maybe
you know, someone who's fivefive can't, right?
(16:38):
But I I love this the story,the mission of elf, because it
is about being accepting.
And you know, I I grew up well,I actually I'm not that not
that young.
So like the movie was out whenI was older.
But I'm saying I I feel likeI've grown up with ELF.
It was just such an importantfilm to me because it is about
joy, but it's about acceptance,and it sounds like the musical
(17:01):
has achieved that just as well.
Dustin Ceithamer (17:04):
Very much so.
Yeah, the heart of the thethings that you love about the
movie are here on stage um seventimes a week or six times a
week at Surflight.
So yeah, come out and see it,and it's the your heart will
totally be warmed and you'lljust have a great night out.
And if you have kids, bringthem.
If you have, you know, seniorcitizens in your house, bring
them.
It really is a likemulti-generational fun show to
(17:26):
bring people to.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (17:27):
I love that.
I'm really excited.
I hope our listeners are gonnabuy their tickets immediately.
That's the goal, guys.
Go out and see Elf, themusical, at Surflight in
Beachhaven.
Dustin Ceithamer (17:37):
You know, the other thing, um, I was getting
tickets for my family who'sgonna be coming, you know, which
is so exciting.
Um, but there's so manyperformances that are already
sold out.
And so if it if this issomething that the audience is
like curious about or would liketo come see, it's kind of an
act now situation.
There's some performances thatonly have maybe two or three
seats.
Um, there's a few that stillhave like, you know, could
(17:59):
accommodate a group, but thetickets are honestly when I say
like hurry now, it's not amarketing scheme, it's the
truth.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (18:06):
Yeah, no, I I want people to get their
tickets immediately.
Like I said, I won't be able togo, I'll be out of state.
So that's one more seat freefor you guys.
Otherwise, I would have alreadysnatched up my ticket.
But I I wish you guys wait, no,I can't wish actors luck.
Break break legs.
That's that's one thing.
Dustin Ceithamer (18:21):
Yeah, you can break legs.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (18:22):
I had to stop myself.
Dustin Ceithamer (18:24):
But I think I don't want anyone to wish me
that because oh gosh.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (18:28):
I don't know what to say.
Have a great idea.
Dustin Ceithamer (18:30):
No, break legs, break legs, it's very
appropriate.
Very appropriate.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (18:34):
Yeah, I've always found that a strange
good luck token anyway.
Like, because why would youwish that on someone?
I don't know the history of it.
We won't go into it.
Either way, I want you to havea great show.
I know that people are gonnaenjoy this, and I know that
you're gonna be the best buddy.
I can already tell that you'regonna be the best buddy because
you already embody his joy andhis exuberance.
And it was really lovelyspeaking with you.
Dustin Ceithamer (18:55):
Oh, such a pleasure to speak.
Thank you for having me on yourshow.
And I just love that you'rejust bringing awareness to these
wonderful businesses.
Like Surflight has been aroundfor uh like 70 years.
It's like it really is acommunity staple and it's such
an important piece of like theBeach Haven culture.
Um, something else I just willmention, like such a great way
to be a part of like theSurflight family is to buy
(19:16):
season tickets.
Um, you know, I was mentioningearlier that tickets are hard to
get, but if you buy a seasonticket, um, the price point, you
know, you get a deal, but thenyou also are guaranteed a seat
for some of these busier shows.
It's a great insider littleinformation.
And the the season, they justannounced a new season coming
up, Guys and Dolls.
There's just really somethingfor everyone.
Young Frankenstein, um, apretty woman, Ghost, um, some
(19:39):
really great musicals thataren't produced a lot regionally
are coming to surflight thisnext season.
So the audiences, oh, andHoliday Inn is the the show
that's going to be nextChristmas.
So if you like like any ofthose shows, grab a season
ticket, um, grab a friend, andthen just come have just a fun
night of theater and supportsome local businesses here.
There's so many cute cafes andshops uh in Beachhaven.
So yeah, it's really a a fun,fun date night, fun just night
(20:04):
out.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (20:05):
I love that so much.
You're a great actor and agreat salesman.
So everybody knows they need toget their tickets now.
Thank you.
Dustin Ceithamer (20:13):
Yeah, I'm glad to be part of the Sri Plate
family now.
They can't get rid of me.
Gina Marie Rodriguez (20:17):
No, and nor would they want to, Dustin.
That is crazy.
Crazy.
Crazy.
Isn't he such a delight?
I feel like I really did justmeet an Elf.
And I mean that as the highestof compliments.
Dustin is just the most joyousperson to speak with.
And you can see him in Elf theMusical, running through
December 21st at the SurflightTheater in Beachhaven.
(20:40):
For tickets and moreinformation, be sure to visit
Surflight.org.
And be quick about it.
The show was almost entirelysold out at the time of
recording.
If you liked this episode, besure to review, subscribe, and
tell your friends.
A transcript of this podcast,links relevant to the story, and
more about the arts in NewJersey can be found at
jerseyarts.com.
The JerseyArts Podcast ispresented by Art Pride New
(21:02):
Jersey, advancing a state ofcreativity since 1986.
The show was co-founded by andcurrently supported by funds
from the New Jersey StateCouncil on the Arts.
This episode was hosted,edited, and produced by me, Gina
Marie Rodriguez.
Executive producers are JimAtkinson and Isaac Serna-Diez.
And my thanks, of course, toDustin Seithammer for speaking
(21:22):
with me today.
I'm Gina Marie Rodriguez forthe Jersey Arts Podcast.
Thanks for listening and happyholidays.
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