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Michigan Theater Grad Lands Role In Detroit Production Of "Elf"

DETROIT (WWJ) - It's a dream come true for a University of Michigan Theater major who is now on stage in Detroit starting in the holiday musical "Elf."

Jane Bruce says this is her first stage tour since graduating in the spring.

"I just graduated in May," Bruce said. "Elf was maybe the fourth or fifth audition I had ... and (I'm) just really, really lucky to have a job so quickly after graduating - so I could enjoy my fall and summer knowing I had a job coming up."

Bruce says she grew up loving the movie version, with Will Ferrell.

"Absolutely, I remember when it first came out, I think I was in middle school maybe, and everyone would be going down the halls - quoting it and saying 'what's your favorite color' and I love it, it's such a pleasure to be able to tell the story that's so ingrained in all of our hearts now at Christmas," said Bruce.

I'm a pretty optimistic person and I think the university prepares you so well .... to go to New York, and you have all of the you need, and I really lucked out that I happened into it so quickly. Also, it's still early in my career and I finish this job and go back to New York and back to the grind. There is no guarantee that you'll get a job - just keep plugging away and meeting people and you know - being a good person - which always helps and hope for the best."

Bruce plays the part of Emily Hobbs, Buddy the Elf''s stepmom in the show.

"Elf" is at the Detroit Opera House through December 15 - find more information HERE.

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