The Music Hall and Ogunquit Playhouse have done it again with Disney’s Frozen the Musical. Oh my goodness, I just got back and I am still on a high. Where do I even begin?
For one, my heart immediately melted as the show began with young Anna and Elsa. Every young cast member in this show stood out. I was a precocious and confident child and yet I cannot imagine having the stamina, presence of mind, or poise to carry out these roles the way these young kids did. I mean, wow.
Kids always love seeing other kids performing live theater. Young Elsa and Anna help my kids imagine what could be possible for them!
Adult Anna, played by Marilyn Caserta is outstanding. The show hinges on Caserta’s ability to convey Anna’s good nature and belief in the power of love. In addition to her incredible likability, she manages to have amazing chemistry with nearly every character in the show, making her so much fun to watch.
Cate Hayman as Elsa is an absolute dream. I don’t even have the words, honestly. She manages to convey both vulnerability and sheer power with her voice and stage presence. “Let it Go” is everything your kids want it to be and more. It’s everything I wanted it to be!
I have so much to say about the supporting characters. Can I admit to you that Hans (Will Savarese) was SO great that I found myself hoping the Broadway musical changed his storyline to make him good?! And then, thank God Kristoff came along (played by Angel Lozada) and set me straight with his soulful voice.
My kids went nuts for the Duke of Weselton (Ben Roseberry) and Oaken (Jack Brewer). They were both so funny that my 7 year-old scolded me for laughing too loudly.
It should come as no surprise that Olaf is as incredible in live theater as he is on screen. F. Michael Haynie blew my mind. Puppetry, dancing, and song? I mean, get out of here. Clint Hromsco as Sven, you get out of here, too! These people have no business being so talented.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the lighting and tech. From simulating a blizzard to Elsa’s magical costume change (but HOW?), the details of the show make the magic come alive. I cannot imagine how many people have to work behind the scenes to create what we get to see on stage.
This show is so much fun. Every single aspect will captivate you, I promise.
Details for Going with Kids
I took my 7, 9 and 11 year-olds with me to a 7pm show. Every single one of them LOVED it. But let me give a few tips and caveats.
- The show is about 2hr 20 minutes by my timing.
- I would recommend a matinee or 5pm show if you’re bringing young children. The matinees are Wednesdays, Saturdays or Sundays. Sunday has a 5pm performance.
- The theater is dark and it’s not easy to leave your seat during the performance (nor should you leave your seat if you can help it). I’d recommend an aisle if you’re worried about squirmy children.
- My 7 year-old loves music, dancing, and theatrics of any kind. She did well throughout this entire show. There was a 5 year-old behind us who also watched like a champ! This is a very kid-friendly show designed to wow nearly all ages. I would recommend 4 and up (but would encourage anyone under 6 to attend earlier shows).
- Don’t be fooled, this show is not just for kids. While last year’s Sound of Music had obvious appeal to all generations, I assure you Frozen holds up. From the relationship between Anna and Elsa to the incredible singing, everyone in your life will be awestruck. I cried 3 times because it moved me so much! I was not expecting that.
- There is a candy bar, popcorn, cotton candy, snacks, and drinks for sale. There are 2 concession stands, on the first and second floors (candy bar only on first floor). The waits were manageable.
- There is one large bathroom on the first floor. The line moves quickly. During the run of Frozen, they’ve made the bathrooms all gender. There is a curtain around the urinals in the bathroom traditionally used for men. Trust me, it’s totally comfortable and private no matter which bathroom you go in.
- We found street parking because it was a Wednesday night. I would recommend parking in one of the garages (particularly the Foundry Garage) if you’re coming Friday or Saturday night, or even a Sunday matinee.
- The tickets may feel like a splurge to you. Let me be clear: you get what you pay for. Once you’re watching the show, you will understand the price. These are professionals and we are truly so lucky to have them in Portsmouth. The show also employs so many people!
Frozen the Musical at the Music Hall runs until December 22nd. Get your tickets now!
You have tons of opportunity to see this show, don’t miss it! This show has everything your kids love about the movie Frozen AND MORE. It is magical, beautiful, moving, and so funny. I feel so lucky we get to see live, Broadway-caliber theater on the Seacoast.
Thank you Ogunquit Playhouse for bringing the joy of live theater to the Music Hall every holiday season! We’re all basically obsessed with you. You show us, time and time again, that art will always bring us together. We need that reminder now more than ever. Thank you.
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