Caroline Bowman in “Frozen” – Courtesy of Matthew Murphy. Used with permission.
I must admit that I have never seen “Frozen,” the 2013 Animated musical fantasy film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Pictures. But like most people in the civilized world, I have heard the movie’s ubiquitous “Let It Go” song, countless times. It’s one of those tunes that’s collectively burned into our pop culture memory, right?
“Frozen” – Courtesy of Matthew Murphy. Used with permission.
Still, through osmosis, I was able to glean enough regarding the plot that I knew what to expect when I saw “Frozen, ” the musical, presented by Broadway in Indianapolis Thursday at the Murat Theatre at Old National Centre. However, I was nevertheless bowled over by the eye-popping opulence of the production with its elaborate sets, costumes, lighting, video projections and special effects — all produced as only Disney can. Most importantly, I am grateful I was able to see it with fresh eyes.
As far as the smartly written story itself, in “Frozen,” Princess Elsa of Arendelle and her younger sister, Anna, become estranged, after an inadvertent mistake. As a result, Elsa, the powerful wizard of snow and ice, isolates herself from her kingdom; struggling to keep her ever-growing curse within confines. Filled with pathos and lighthearted humor, the story features endearing characters such as Olaf the snowman, the Hidden People and ice harvester Kristoff and his reindeer Sven (a marvel of engineering).
“Frozen” – Courtesy of Matthew Murphy. Used with permission.
The musical’s score with its show stopping “Let It Go,” as sung in an electrifying, tour de force performance by Caroline Bowman who played Elsa, was appealing for its sing along qualities. Other song titles are “Reindeers are Better Than People,” “Love is an Open Door,” “In Summer,” “Hygge,” and “Fixer Upper,”
Directed by Michael Grandage, the entire North American Tour cast of actor-singer-dancers, as expected for a Broadway caliber show, turned in impeccable, engaging” performances. Particularly captivating was Rob Ashford’s choreography which was executed brilliantly.
Adding to entire experience of witnessing “Frozen” was the presence of numerous children whose laughter and squeals of joy filled the Murat. Truly a family activity, the show is the perfect prelude to the holiday season.
Tickets for “Frozen” which runs through Nov. 26, are available at www.BroadwayInIndianapolis.com and www.ticketmaster.com, by calling 1-800-982-2787 or visiting the Old National Centre box office. Groups of 10 or more may call 317-632-5183.
