Auditions are underway this week as community theater organizers prepare to bring holiday cheer to the stage with a production of “Elf: The Musical.”

Tryouts begin Tuesday, Sept. 8, and run from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Nolan Center. They wrap up Thursday, Sept. 10, with director Haley Reeves aiming to finalize the cast of roughly 30 performers by Sept. 12. Shows are scheduled to run Thanksgiving weekend, Nov. 27-29.

Filling that many roles poses a challenge, but Reeves remains optimistic.

“We’re looking for people with excitement and enthusiasm so we can make it work,” she said.

Reeves chose the family-friendly holiday show after hearing directly from residents.

“I usually make decisions based on community recommendations, or I try to,” Reeves said. “I actually had a few people request ‘Elf’. Bonnie Ritchie really pushed for it.”

Though Reeves knew the holiday film from 2003, starring Will Ferrell, that inspired the musical, she had never seen the stage version until researching it for this season.

“I watched it and it is such a fun production,” she said. “That’s why I think scheduling the performances for the weekend after Thanksgiving is perfect.”

Hopefuls attending tryouts should come prepared to sing a song and read lines.

“There will also be choreography for some dancing,” she said.

The production is seeking help behind the scenes as well. Volunteers do not need stage experience to participate.

“There are so many things that we could use help with,” Reeves said. “Stagehands, set design, costuming … there are plenty of ways that people can get involved. If someone wants to help in any of those ways, they can come by during auditions and just let me know how they would like to help.”

Rehearsal dates will depend on actor availability, but Reeves hopes structured, efficient practices will keep the timeline manageable.

“As long as people come in ready to work, we can get in and get out,” she said. “Then we can just get ready for the next practice.”

Reeves noted that preparation at home will also keep the momentum going. Above all, she encourages newcomers to step forward.

“If you’ve never done a show before and you’ve wanted to, come out and join us. We love seeing new faces,” she said. “We’re all very excited about this production.”