The Wonderment of Disney’s FROZEN

As the last show in this season’s FSCJ Artist Series, FROZEN is Downtown Jacksonville April 27-May 4th.  With music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, and book by Jennifer Lee, the show is based on the 2013 film.

I previously wrote about my conversation with Lauren Nicole Chapman (Anna) from the cast.  I was not prepared for the overwhelming sense of wonder that this cast and crew create.  While I did not have the privilege of seeing Caroline Bowman as Elsa nor Jeremy Davis as Olaf, the understudies in their places (Adrianna Rose Lyons as Elsa and Jason Goldston as Olaf) were so good, that I could only wonder at the talent of the primary leads.

From the moment the story opens, you want to hug the entire cast.  Norah Nunes as Young Anna and Avelyn Lena Choi as Young Elsa are so incredibly sweet and talented, I felt as high as if I’d overdosed on my favorite candies.  That high never ended with voices that soared and magical set and costume changes that left us bewildered.

I am not going to spend time reiterating the story and all of the characters.  The talent was wondrous and seamless despite the myriad of costume and scene changes that flew fast and furiously.  I will also say that I can see why it took over 19 trucks to transport this show between venues, as the layers upon layers of every piece contributing to the magical effects was astounding.  Things like the cast transforming themselves to become part of the FROZEN landscape…

At the heart of the story is the relationship between two sisters.  Ms. Chapman said, “Anna and Elsa are really very alike.  They just deal with anxiety in different ways.  Ultimately, the sisters are each trying to protect each other.”  It is a very loving, beautiful, family-friendly show for the young and young-at-heart.

There is a BOGO ticket night for family night on Tuesday, April 30th.  Save yourself the airfare and hotel costs of going to Broadway, because Broadway has been brought to you.  It’s a little over two hours with intermission, so it won’t be too overwhelming for the little ones.

FROZEN is at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts April 27-May 4th.  Ticket prices vary based on show and seating.  For tickets, go to fscjartistseries.org or call (904) 632-5000.

by Cessy Newmon