Disney’s modern classic ‘Frozen’ is brought to life on stage, with a lot to live up to following a string of hit predecessors, including, ‘The Lion King’, ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘Aladdin’. However, it certainly does live up to it, and then some! Opening on Broadway in 2018, before crossing the Atlantic to London’s West End in 2021, the show is now accessible to a Global audience with this wonderful, recorded performance from London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane.
Predominantly keeping true to the film, the story centres around Queen Elsa and sister Anna, of Arendelle, as Elsa’s hidden powers unwittingly plunge the town into an eternal winter. The sisters, along with friends made along the way, must learn to thaw the snow and ice before it’s too late. With all the songs and thrills of the film included, children certainly won’t be disappointed. However, with added narrative nuances and cleverly written melancholic new music, this stage adaption appeals to audiences of all ages.
It must be said, the production is a feast for the eyes, with scenic design by Christopher Oram, nothing short of breathtaking. Transitions between scenes run seamlessly, revealing more epic scenery as the story progresses. The show is packed full of special effects, with plenty of real wow moments, not least the climax to ‘Let It Go’, with what can only be described as a moment of magic – I won’t spoil this, but when you watch I’m sure you’ll agree!
Samantha Barks, as Elsa, is an absolute powerhouse. Her vocals are immaculate with stage presence to match. Belting ballad after ballad, she holds the audience in the palm of her hand. Laura Dawkes, as Anna, is equally impressive. Bringing warmth, charm and humour to the role, Dawkes is the perfect foil to Barks’ more intense character. The developed relationship between the two sisters, which is explored in much more detail than the film, is one of the show’s stronger points. The pair had real chemistry and the reprise of ‘Let It Go’ at the end, is a real joy.
The supporting cast, headed up by Craig Gallivan, as loveable Olaf, and Jammy Kasongo, as Kristoff, leave no weak links. Gallivan brings exuberant energy to the role, with his rendition of ‘Summer’ a real crowd-pleaser. Kasono’s Kristoff brings a whole new dynamic to the character, particularly with folk, dream-like chanting and vocals adding authenticity and depth to the role. The entire ensemble is strong on harmonies and tight on choreography. I particularly enjoyed Rob Ashford’s stylised movement choices for the ship and storm scenes. Puppetry by Michael Curry bring Olaf and, in particularly, Sven the reindeer to life remarkably.
Packed full of the songs we all know and love, such as, ‘Do You Wanna Build a Snowman?’ and ‘Love is an Open Door’, along with new, catchy numbers, such as the hilarious ‘Hugge”, Frozen: The Hit Broadway Music is a fantastic fun-fest for the whole family. Visually stunning and musically pleasing, you won’t be disappointed by this super stage adaption. And you don’t even need to leave the comfort of your own living room to enjoy it!
Frozen: The Hit Broadway Musical streams on Disney Plus from 20th June, 2025: https://www.disneyplus.com/en-gb/browse/entity-ad67768d-1d5e-4c3d-9cf3-be54c5b84b41
Reviewer: Paddy Darnell-Walsh
Reviewed: 15th June 2025
North West End UK Rating: