Disney`s Frozen Jr

The tale of two royal sisters who have a life of blissful friendship until Elsa, the elder accidentally strikes Anna with her magic.  Scared of the power she has, she hides away in an icy wilderness until her sister locates her and harmony is restored.  That in a nutshell is the story of Frozen.  But there are boundless hazards and pitfalls along the way, and Zak Charlesworth brings them all to fruition in this short, but fast-moving presentation of Disney`s Junior Version of Frozen.

Young Elsa played by Olivia McEwan and Young Anna by Olivia Monk set the scene, showing the closeness of the sisters, giving competent performances in both their songs and dialogue. Taking over the reins as Middle Elsa and Middle Anna, Sophie Longcroft and Hattie McEwan continued the story with confidence and are followed by the grown-up princesses, Elsa played by Heidi Parsons and Ella Charlesworth as Anna.

Heidi shone throughout, delivering her vocals with great confidence, particularly the famous “Let it Go”, and showed excellent stage presence.  Equally, Ella was vocally strong with clear diction and again with good stage presence.  I particularly liked her duet “For the First Time in Forever” with Heidi which opened Act 2.

Lewis McDowall played the not so charming Prince Hans with self-assurance, and Fin Boswell gave a good performance as the likeable Kristoff.  Playing his Reindeer sidekick Sven, Dillan Brookes was at ease in the part, wearing an impressive costume.

The comedy highlight came from Millie Weston as Olaf, the Snowman.  Her timing in delivery was spot on and her control of the very effective costume was masterful, a top drawer showing.

Lucy Coulson Jones played Oaken, Will Mellor and Summer McNorton portrayed the King and Queen, Alex Povey was the Duke of Westleton with an impressive moustache.  James Pedrick as Pabbie, Emily Wilkins as Bulda and Em McEwan as the Bishop completed the impressive collection of characters.

The chorus of Citizens of Arendelle all played with great enthusiasm and obvious enjoyment.  There was some good choral singing, notably “Colder by the Minute”, and all the dance routines were of a very good quality, helping to keep the show moving at a good tempo.

Again, great credit to Zak on his direction and praise to Vicky Byrne who created simple but effective choreography.

Roydon Charlesworth designed and built a most impressive set.  The lighting by Dave Martin was exceptional, and most impressive to the eye.  Sound was by Harvey Tavener. Sarah Charlesworth created an excellently costumed wardrobe for the company.  

 

 

 

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