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Regional Reviews: Phoenix Frozen Also see Gil's reviews of Crazy for You and The Gospel According to Thomas Jefferson, Charles Dickens and Count Leo Tolstoy: Discord Disney's animated film Frozen became a worldwide phenomenon, launching a movie sequel, merchandise, attractions at the Disney theme parks, and a stage adaptation that opened on Broadway in 2018. The 2013 movie made history as the first film directed by a woman to gross $1 billion. The Phoenix Theatre Company's production of the stage musical not only captures the heart and spectacle of the beloved story but also makes history of its own as the first show to open in their stunning state-of-the-art Dr. Stacie J. and Richard J. Stephenson Theatre. Seeing the beloved film brought to life on stage with gorgeous costumes and theatrical stage effects makes for a magical theatrical experience. While there were a few small hiccups on opening night, the combination of dazzling stagecraft, powerful performances, and a pristine venue creates an enchanting, crowd-pleasing production. The musical closely follows the story audiences know from the animated film. Sisters Anna and Elsa are torn apart when Elsa's magical ice powers prove too difficult to control. After Elsa accidentally plunges the kingdom of Arendelle into eternal winter, Anna sets off on a dangerous but hopeful quest to bring her sister home. Along the way she teams up with ice-seller Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, and the hilarious snowman Olaf. With themes of love, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bond between sisters, the show provides a heartfelt and uplifting message for audiences of all ages. The stage version expands the familiar tale with additional songs by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, who also wrote the film songs, while the book by Jennifer Lee, who also wrote the film screenplay, provides somewhat deeper character development. Elsa and Anna are given more musical moments to explore their emotions and their contrasting worldviews, while Kristoff's story gains new dimension through his heartfelt ballads. While none of the new songs are as memorable as the catchy film songs, these additions make the characters even more relatable and provide fresh perspectives on a story that has already touched millions. The cast is excellent. Caelan Creaser was the understudy for Elsa on the national tour and her portrayal captures both the icy strength and the inner turmoil of the Snow Queen. Creaser's singing voice is sensational, delivering a breathtaking "Let It Go" that fills the theatre with powerful notes. Anna is played with warmth, charm, impeccable comic timing, and a beautiful singing voice by Chelsea Cree Groen, making her an absolute delight to follow on her journey. As Kristoff, Adam James King is appropriately rugged yet charming, with a strong singing voice that lends sincerity to his character, while, as Olaf, Joseph Cavazos brings pops of humor with spot-on comic timing and delivery that gets big laughs. Brandon S. Chu brings a good combination of charm, humor, and strength to the role of Hans, and Kali Kappes and Audra South are excellent as the younger Anna and Elsa (they alternate the roles with Shiloh Foreman and Rose Cali). The supporting cast include such Phoenix Theatre favorites as Matravius Avent, Alyssa Chiarello, D. Scott Withers, Lucas Coatney-Murietta, and Eddie Maldonado along with Kambria Cook, who all bring moments of heart and humor to their roles. Jacody Weathers is lovable as Sven, Kristoff's reindeer, and the ensemble shine as an assortment of characters. Michael Barnard's direction is, appropriately, imaginative, with moments that echo the film characters and situations while also adding depth. The production makes full use of the space's technical capabilities, from Lisa Renkel's video projections and Tijana Bjelajac's set elements that transform the stage into icy landscapes to smooth scene transitions that keep the story moving effortlessly, although I wish there was a little more spectacle to the sets and projections. The choreography by Sam Hay adds bursts of energy to the big ensemble numbers. The elaborate costumes by Leon Dobkowski and wigs by Avant Johnston echo the film designs. Eric Wright's puppet designs bring Olaf and Sven to life without truly hiding the actor controlling the characters, and there are a few fun special effects that recreate Elsa's magical powers. The new theater's technical capabilities ensure both the lighting (Keith A. Truax) and sound (Dave Temby) designs are exceptional, with crystal clear sound and an immersive feeling to the lighting. Kevin Robert White's music direction is fantastic, with tight control of the large orchestra; it's also nice to see a pit for the orchestra, as the previous theater almost always was forced to situate the orchestra in an off-stage space. Frozen at The Phoenix Theatre Company showcases not only the enduring charm of Disney's story but also the remarkable capabilities of this brand-new theater itself. Frozen runs through October 26, 2025, at The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N Central Avenue, Phoenix AZ. For tickets and information, please visit phoenixtheatre.com or call 602-254-2151. Music and Lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez Cast: *Members of Actors' Equity Association, the union of professional actors & stage managers in the U.S. |
