Frozen JR
Information
- Date
- 15th December 2024
- Society
- Phoenix Youth Theatre
- Venue
- Olveston Parish Hall
- Type of Production
- Musical
- Director
- Kara Kennedy
- Musical Director
- Kayley Prior
- Choreographer
- Kara Kennedy
"Frozen JR," is the abridged adaptation of the Broadway and West End Musical which in turn is based on Disney's animated blockbuster film. The show features all of the well-known songs with music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez and is adapted for young performers.
Olveston Parish Hall is a small space with a compact stage to which was added two levels of apron in front spanning the full width of the stage providing additional performance space. There were white flats either side of the stage which were lit during the ice scene transformations and for the Elsa magic. The direction was slick, moving from scene to scene smoothly and all available entrances and exits in the venue were used throughout making the most of the space. The lighting matched the mood throughout and was used effectively. There were moments when the cast moved downstage onto the front apron that they were not fully lit so perhaps consider that moving forward.
Overall, the sound was balanced, backing tracks were well cued. It was not necessary to use individual radio mics in this venue for the majority of the performers but we did lose some dialogue/individual song lines with some of the more quieter performers and when the cast faced more upstage so bear that in mind for future performances in this venue.
Costume and Props were all in keeping. Elsa’s transformation worked flawlessly, well done to the costume team. Olaf was a highlight. Sven’s make up was great as well.
In reviewing the principal performances:
- Elsa This was a lovely mature performance. Vocally you were strong and performed “Let It Go” with confidence, a big responsibility and a difficult song. A lovely relationship between you and Anna.
- Anna You played this role with energy and enthusiasm, try and maintain the character throughout even when the attention is not directly on you. You had some lovely vocals, and as I said, I really liked the relationship between you and Elsa.
- Hans A strong performance, I maybe would have liked you to lean a bit more into the villainous side of this character.
- Kristoff This was a really strong charming performance, and you managed the comedic moments very well.
- Olaf This was a confident performance, the puppetry was great, meaning I really didn’t look at you very much as I was so absorbed in Olaf’s performance. “In Summer” a highlight. My young guest loved your character.
- Sven I really liked your interpretation of Sven, maybe really relish a bit more in the comedy that this role has.
- Young Elsa and Young Anna Had a beautiful relationship. Vocally you were both very strong with some lovely characterisations. I really enjoyed “Do You Want To Build a Snowman”.
- King Agnar and Queen Iduna You worked well together and performed with confidence.
- Bulda and Pabbie Lovely warm performances. “Fixer Upper” another highlight for me.
- Oaken a strong character performance. I really enjoyed “Hygge”.
- Weselton you portrayed this judgemental opinionated character very well.
- Middle Elsa and Middle Anna lovely vocals as Elsa and Anne grew up.
The ensemble performed the well-pitched choreography with enthusiasm and seemed to be really enjoying themselves, there were some lovely harmonies coming through at times. Well done to all.
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