Spreading Christmas Cheer: Brianna Bishop brings Jovie to life in ELF THE MUSICAL

When it comes to spreading festive cheer, few characters capture the spirit of Christmas quite like Jovie in Elf.

First brought to life on the big screen by Zooey Deschanel in the 2003 holiday classic Elf, Jovie is more than just a love interest—she’s the grounding force in a whirlwind of tinsel, oversized candy canes, and Buddy the Elf’s unrelenting optimism. The film, starring Will Ferrell as the lovable human raised by elves, quickly became a Christmas staple, celebrated for its quirky humour, heartfelt moments, and a message that reminds us of the importance of embracing joy, no matter our age.

This season, Brianna Bishop steps into Jovie’s shoes for Elf The Musical, bringing her own warmth, charm, and wit to the role. Brianna is no stranger to the stage, having built an impressive career across musical theatre and screen. Recently seen as Marty Maraschino in Grease the Musical and starring as Ella in the world premiere of Midnight: The Cinderella Musical, Brianna has captivated audiences with her vocal versatility and dynamic stage presence. Her credits also include the role of Amber Von Tussle in Hairspray and the national tour of Chess The Musical. Beyond the stage, she appeared as Danielle in Rebel Wilson’s feature film The Deb and lent her talents to the Original Live Cast Recording of Midnight.

From her early days performing with Stage Masters and the Young Australian Broadway Chorus to her breakout as a grand finalist on Australia’s Got Talent at just 12 years old, Brianna’s passion for storytelling has been undeniable. After honing her craft at The National Theatre Drama School and NIDA, her career has taken her from Sydney Theatre Company’s production of Chimerica to roles aboard Royal Caribbean Entertainment and Screen Australia’s EMO the Musical.

In this exclusive interview, Brianna shares what it’s like to step into the iconic role of Jovie, how her extensive background prepared her for this festive journey, and why Elf The Musical continues to light up audiences of all ages. From candy-cane-swirled magic to heart-warming messages of hope, Brianna is ready to spread the Christmas spirit far and wide.

Can you tell me a bit about your background with performing?

Brianna: As a teenager, theatre became a space that provided me a freedom to express, explore and create and I fell in love! After school I went to NIDA for MT, I started on cruise ships and after that I booked my first national tour which was Chess the Musical as an ensemble member and from there, I went on to play Amber in Hairspray, Ella in Midnight, Marty in Grease and now Jovie in Elf. Between Midnight and Grease, I also shot a film called ‘The Deb’ in the role of Danielle produced and directed by Rebel Wilson.

The holiday season is at the heart of this story – do you have a favourite holiday tradition or memory that inspires your performance?

Brianna: My family are Norwegian and celebrate Christmas Eve, so our tradition is a cozy late night with family lots of blueberries and old 60s music, very “hygge” as they say. My Christmas euphoria definitely stems from these nights in my life. I feel Jovie holds this same warmth in her, a down to earth coziness that is very heartfelt.

What drew you to the role of Jovie, and how have you connected with her as a character?

Brianna: As an observer of Jovie I relate to her want to not conform. Regardless of what the “thing” is, there is an air of rebellion even if that rebellion is subtle and seemingly nondescript, there is a protest for something bigger than herself, amongst the landscape of a New York hustle bustle society. Jovie’s presence, along with Buddy’s, from the get-go juxtaposes the other energies in the show. There is no pretence, no ulterior motive, she is what she is, and I love that about her.

Has the original movie shaped your performance, or have you found new ways to make the character your own?

Brianna: I mean, I love Zoe Deschanel and a big part of why I love this character is due to her performance in the film. However, bringing the film to stage has given Elf a new lease on life. So, because of this I really do feel like Jovie is a new role in and of itself and I am having so much fun bringing her to life in my own way.

Do you have a favourite moment or scene in the show?

Brianna: Maybe… Palko the asparagus boy (you’ll have to see the show to find out)

If you could describe Jovie in three words, what would they be, and why?

Brianna: Creative. Visionary. Change maker. She a romantic at her core, she has a vision for a better future, which is why she holds a kinship and an admiration for Buddy, and his ideas of a brighter future. She’s creative in herself expression and her thinking. I feel this is expressed through her non-conforming to societal standards, by staying true to self.

What do you hope audiences take away from Elf: The Musical?

Brianna: There is a scene between the Hobbs family and character called Mr. Greenway, a tycoon in New York publishing who says “I haven’t spent Christmas with my family in 30 years! Thats why I’m president of this company and you’re a nobody!” I think this line points out the obvious so well, that if we sacrifice our choice for connection with those we love, for what we “think” matters most, we have in the process lost ourselves. At the core of this show, the message is simple. Come back to what matters most, and really that’s entirely up to you!

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Elf: The Musical plays at the Sydney Opera House from December 19th to 29th.

For tickets and more information, visit the Sydney Opera House website.