***** Over the years, I have seen many different productions on many different stages, telling the story of “The Snow Queen”, otherwise known as “Snedronningen” written by Hans Christian Andersen, as a fairy tale written back in 1844. Many of the adaptations I have seen keep the main characters Kai ( a little boy) and Gerda ( a little girl) who are neighbors and friends, almost like a brother and sister. When Disney decided to do an animated version of the story, they titled it “Frozen” and Jennifer Lee wrote it and also directed it with Chris Buck. They added music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez & Robert Lopez. It then became a Broadway show.
I have never been witness to the Original animated film, but over the years, did get to witness the Ice Capades version of the story as I took my grandchildren to several productions over the years. When Marriott Theatre announced they were doing “Disney’s Frozen”, I assumed it would be very similar to what I had seen on ice, but without the ice. I know there is a “junior” version that is put on by children and also for children, and I knew that Marriott would have to do more than that.
There was no surprize tonight when the lights dimmed for the opening night performance of “Disney’s Frozen”, a marvelous work of art directed by Ashley Rodbro, who truly understands how to work magic in a theater that is “in-the-round”. Once again, Marriott and their staff have found a unique and special cast to bring this story to life. They have added some adorable puppetry (Sven designed by Jesse Mooney-Bullock) and (Olaf, designed by The Rock Shop), and Katie Spelman’s choreography is top-notch.
The story begins with the two royal daughters, Anna ( young Anna is played by the delightful Evelyn Dorough, who will amaze you with her vocal range) and Elsa ( The adorable Tessa Mae Pundsack). Later in the production, these two performers take on other roles. They are close in heart, but due to Elsa’s power to create ice, their parents must separate them. Elsa, in order to keep from harming or maiming her sister, must leave her kingdom, which she inherits when their parents pass away, and much of the story is about Anna’s quest to find her sister, and rid her of the curse ( her power).
The two performers who take on the adult versions of the sisters are both amazing. Anna is handled to perfection by Chloe’ Nadon-Enriquez and Margan Anita Wood will astound you as Elsa. I am not sure how the Marriott people continue to do this, but they seem to find the perfect performers for every production. I for one, am very grateful for this talent.
Other major performances are Nick Beringer as Olaf ( handling the puppetry as well), Garrett Lutz , as Sven ( and ensemble roles as well), Darian Goulding as Oaken ( his opening number for the second act is amazing), Justin Albinder as Hans, David Moreland as Kristoff and the hysterical Steven Strafford as the Duke of Weselton ( a real hoot).
The ensemble is by far one of the hardest-working groups of actors ever assembled on a stage: Marta Bady, Ivan Bracy Jr., Joy Campbell, Carl Draper, Max Antonio Gonzalez, Laura Gutley, Elizabeth Romero, Christopher Llewyn Ramirez, Kassie McMillan, and Michael Earvin Martin. These actors change characters and costumes ( Mara Blumenfeld) constantly. The wigs and makeup ( Miguel A. Armstrong), the sound (Michael Daly), lighting (Jesse Klug), Scenic design (Collette Pollard) and props (Bren Coombs) were all perfect, and David Blixt’s fight direction was right on. The special feeling of the lighting and sound created a feeling that what was happening WAS happening, and the snow that falls is very realistic.
A tip of the hat to the Orchestra under the direction of Brad Haak! Songs that stand out are “Do You Want to Build A Snowman”, “Let It Go” ( of course), “Monster”, “I Can’t Lose You” and I must say, the “Hygge” is probably the funniest bit.
I know that many of you may have seen the animated “Frozen” or even one of the children’s versions. I say this is a holiday-season film the whole family will enjoy. The running time is around two hours with one 15-minute intermission.
“Disney’s Frozen” will continue thru January 3rd with performances as follows:
Wednesdays at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Thursdays at 7 p.m.
Fridays at 7:30 p.m.
Saturdays at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Sundays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.
* select Thursday performances at 1 p.m. NO PERFORMANCE ON THANKSGIVING
Ticket prices start at $80. Children of all ages are welcome, and every person needs a ticket.
Guests can also enjoy a $49 prix fixe menu at Three Embers Restaurant, located on the property, before the show.
Group, student, senior and military discounts are available by calling the box office. Free parking is available for all performances. To reserve tickets or become a Marriott Theatre subscriber, please call the Marriott Theatre Box Office at 847.634.0200 or visit www.tickets.marriotttheatre.com. To make a restaurant reservation, please call 847.634.0100.
Marriott Lincolnshire Resort/Theatre is located in Lincolnshire at 10 Marriott Drive ( just South of Route 22 and East of Route 21) in Lincolnshire
To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up, and click on “Frozen”.
More Stories
“They Broke Up” reviewed by Julia W. Rath
“Little Shop of Horrors: reviewed by Paul Lisnek/Curtain Call Chicago
“A Body of Water” reviewed by Frank Meccia