Evans Children’s Academy of the Performing Arts along with the Poncan Theatre present the perfect antidote to the post-holiday season letdown with Disney’s Frozen JR. Jan. 10-12.
Elsa, Anna and the other beloved characters of the magical kingdom of Arendelle come to life on stage of the Poncan Theatre to tell the story of true love and acceptance between sisters. The musical is described as “loaded with magic, adventures and plenty of humor sure to thaw even the coldest heart,” and the Evans Academy actors fulfill this promise brilliantly.
Director Dr. Edward Dixon notes that work on this production took place over two weeks. Actors spent part of their winter break in daytime rehearsals, “like a winter camp.” The players have accomplished a tremendous amount of work to learn their lines, music and dances in such a brief time. Lighting effects are spectacular, and the icy backdrops evoke the frozen North.
Playing Princess Elsa, Evie Larson says, “This was my dream role ever since I heard the Broadway soundtrack.” Different from most princesses, Elsa “shows major growth throughout the play as she figures out who she is. It’s fun to show her transformation with expressions.”
Cast as Young Elsa is Hadleigh Terry, with Brylen Liberton appearing as Middle Elsa.
Kira Pendleton describes herself as typecast in a “really fun role” as Princess Anna, who is “quirky and always thinks differently from how one expects a person to be.”
Kenzie Kyler as the mischievous Young Anna likes the “many cool lights,” and the “cool choreography,” and wants the audience to know, “We really worked hard for the show.” Abby Garrison plays Middle Anna.
Bulda, one of the mystical leaders of the Hidden Folk, is portrayed as “very soulful and caring about everyone” by Addison Kyler, who comments that most of the performers had to work hard on the choreography. “It was one of the hardest things to pull off.” Pabbie, her co-leader and co-healer, is played by Mallory Kyler.
Kristoff, an ice harvester with a prickly exterior but a big heart, is acted by Landon Smykil. He sings a poignant duet with his loyal best friend, Sven, the reindeer, interpreted by Carli Pendleton. Pendleton, who likes “to play weird and unusual characters,” says it is fun being in a magical show.
Brayden Smith is Prince Hans of the Southern Isles, whose charming façade reveals a villainous true self. Kaden Swords as the pompous Duke of Weselton does a good job ...
