Frozen on Stage: A Magical Journey Through Sisterly Love in the West End
It's hard to believe that only a decade has passed since the enchanting world of Frozen graced the silver screen, and just two years since its musical adaptation dazzled the West End. Amidst the countless renditions of "Let It Go" and the sight of little Elsas dotting the streets of London, the sensation seems to have left an enduring mark.
Venturing to the Theatre Royal on Drury Lane, I finally witnessed the Disney classic come to life on stage. A delightful touch awaited as artificial snow gently descended upon entering, enhancing the already magical ambience.
Though commonly perceived as Princess Elsa's tale, Frozen is, at its core, the spirited journey of her younger sister, Princess Anna. The actress portraying the vivacious royal commanded the stage, vividly bringing the exuberant princess to life. Phoebe Penfold skillfully captured Elsa's mix of nervousness and protectiveness, portraying a heartwarming dynamic with her on-stage sibling.
Remaining true to the film's narrative, the musical unfolds with a sense of familiarity. Yet, I found myself holding my breath during pivotal moments, such as the King and Queen's perilous sea voyage. Familiar scenes, like Anna's dishevelled awakening on her sister's coronation day, added a touch of déjà vu.
While tailored for a younger audience, the musical incorporates nuanced, slightly more adult moments. Whether it's Princess Anna's playful admiration of Prince Hans or an unexpected comedic mishap, these instances seem crafted for the amusement of the grown-up spectators. Surprisingly, there's a bit more skin on display than anticipated, with Anna changing on stage not once, but twice.
The Hygge segment induced laughter as the ensemble emerged from a sauna clad in little more than leaves and branches. While the production pays homage to the original plot and iconic lines, it leaves an indelible mark with new songs and dialogue not found in the animated feature.
Laura Dawkes, making her West End debut, breathes life into Frozen's mischievous princess. Graduating from the Emil Dale Academy earlier this year, the 21-year-old actress captivates with her energetic portrayal, marking Princess Anna as a breakout role and positioning Dawkes as a rising star on the West End stage.
Sven, an imposing character on stage, stole the spotlight with every appearance, while Olaf, expertly puppeteered by Craig Gallivan, charmed with the delightful number "In Summer." Queen Elsa, embodied by Jenna Lee-James, exuded the air of a protective older sister. Her rendition of "Let It Go" featured a captivating moment that earned thunderous applause, evoking a palpable sense of magic.
In essence, Frozen unfolds as a tale of sisterly love, a narrative that warms the heart when witnessed live. While undeniably crafted for children and families, the show's charm extends to adults, offering an enjoyable and enchanting experience for all.
