Frozen ★★★★ Theatre Royal Drury Lane | Until June 26, 2022


Disney's Frozen is the latest of the studio's charming animated films to become a musical. The story of Elsa and her sister, Anna, which entranced children and adults in its animated form, now brings all that magic to the stage. Like all the Disneys, it is a lovely way to introduce young people to the delights of theatre, and this production at Theatre Royal Drury Lane was filled with princesses bringing their dreams and imaginations to the story inspired by Hans Christian Andersen. The Disney translations are never merely carbon copies of the original animation, and along with the signature song "Let It Go" several new numbers have been added to the score. "Dangerous to Dream” and “Monster” performed by Elsa, “Hans of the Southern Isles” performed by Prince Hans, and “Kristoff Lullaby” performed by Kristoff all delighted the audience. However, the story and its powerful messages remain the same: the importance of accepting difference, the power of sibling love, the dangers of infatuation, female empowerment and the importance of courage on life's journey. Stephanie McKeon as Anna and Samantha Barks as Elsa managed to exude real caring and compassion as the two sisters. Their voices are simply resplendent. Craig Gallivan did a fine job of creating Olaf and engaging the audience. Obioma Ugoala was a suitably strong and gentle Kristoff and his duet with himself was a definite highlight, while Oliver Ormson was a convincingly duplicitous Hans. As with all Disney's theatrical endeavours it is the staging that often steals the show. The effects awe the entire audience, child and adult. Indeed, everyone is bound to be touched by the wonder that is the Disney hallmark.

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Johan Persson.

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