There is nothing more fantastic than a Disney production, and FROZEN is no exception. It has a reputation for being a must-see show filled with magic moments for all ages. Walking around the UC Davis Health Pavilion, I saw children dressed in Anna and Elsa outfits; even adults wore blues and greens to celebrate this moment in the round. At showtime, the lights dimmed and the company of the show filled the aisles. Once they began to sing “Vuelie,” chills ran down my arms, and I knew it was going to be a magical production.
Disney’s FROZEN is based on the 2013 animated feature of the same name. Elsa was born with ice power and quickly learns the dangers that can come from it. She fears her powers, and after a series of mishaps on coronation day, she accidentally sets off a winter storm in the middle of summer while running away. As the kingdom of Arendelle becomes trapped in a frozen winter, Anna, Elsa’s sister, ventures to the mountains to find her and break the spell. Along the way she meets Kristoff, a mountaineer and ice salesman, his reindeer, Sven, and an enchanted snowman named Olaf.
Through lighting, amazing actors, and beautiful costumes, Broadway at Music Circus captured magic and brought it to life on stage. I was thoroughly impressed by how much the lighting changed the tone in the show. Once Elsa sets off the winter, the lighting gets a little darker. It’s just enough to change it from feeling like summer to feeling like there was a storm at the Pavilion. They also used light to make objects appear like they are icy, immersing the story even more. This was extremely important toward the end when Anna was slowly freezing. As she is changing, not only does the lighting hit to give that cracked look, but they also use various wigs and costumes so you can see the ice taking over her body. Costumes also played an important role for Elsa. One of the most iconic scenes in FROZEN is the quick change for Elsa, and Music Circus did it flawlessly. The change happens during “Let It Go,” and not only do we get to see Elsa quickly and beautifully debut a new look, but this moment also marks the start of the freedom from her fears.
As mentioned above, the actors did an amazing job. I am always thrilled when I see Teal Wicks (Elsa) at Music Circus. She blew me out of the water with her portrayal of Julie Jordan in CAROUSEL, and she continues to impress me. She flawlessly executed “Let It Go” and captured the anxiety Elsa faces throughout her journey. Lauren Nicole Chapman made Anna bubbly, funny, and fearless. Not only did she bring so much charm to Anna, but she and Trent Saunders (Kristoff) had fantastic chemistry. They had many little moments that were funny and sweet, and it reminded me of the type of love most people want to find. And while there were so many moments of comedic relief, I was really taken by Jason Weitkamp’s portrayal of Oaken. He made Oaken so hilarious while also managing to hold a note longer than seemed physically possible, earning one of the biggest laughs and cheers of the night.
With breathtaking visuals, unforgettable music, and a cast that brought warmth to even the iciest moments, FROZEN is a production that leaves a lasting impression. The show balances the comedy and heart beautifully, reminding audiences that love is the true superpower. FROZEN is playing now through June 28 at the UC Davis Health Pavilion. Make sure you see it before it melts away! Learn more here.
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