Walking into the auditorium, I was greeted by the sight of laughing kids with glow wands dressed in costumes, and a general sense of excitement in the air. As the lights dimmed, the musicians began to play, creating a richness in the air. The music felt as if it physically took up space. In an instant, the auditorium was transformed into the kingdom of Arendelle, the setting of MHS’s recently staged production of the Broadway-adapted Disney movie, Frozen. If you haven’t seen the film, I recommend watching it!

The play begins with the royal family, the King and Queen, and two princesses. The oldest, Elsa, has magical powers of ice (hence the movie name), but struggles to control them, injuring her younger sister, Anna, one night. After that, Elsa pushes away her younger sister, vowing to never hurt her again. When the King and Queen tragically die at sea, Elsa must succeed to the throne. However, on the day of Elsa’s coronation, she loses control of her powers and runs away, leaving Anna to go find her in the North Mountain before Arendelle freezes for good. All in all, Frozen is a joyful story about sisterhood, love, and family. 

Frozen has to be my all-time favorite Disney movie. Having watched both the movie iteration and the recording of the Broadway show, I had very high expectations coming into watching this show. However, the show exceeded them by far, the production full of laughter and love. Additionally, I had the privilege of seeing this show twice (Thank you, Mrs. Cahill and Slo for these opportunities!), and even the second time around, I was spellbound.

The actors took the stage and began the show. Starting out, I must give props to every single member of the cast and crew— I know how much effort they put into this show, and it truly showed. Not only through the breathtaking music and voices on stage, but the smaller details like the props and costumes made everything come together perfectly on stage.

Starting off, the iconic Do You Want To Build A Snowman? was one of the highlights for me. Sophie Middleton and Lily Nolan, who played the younger princesses, nailed their roles and hit each note perfectly.

The ensemble danced amazingly and added great vocals. Notably, any scenes with the trolls felt wondrous and magical. Likewise, Kristoff (played by Will Gordon) and Anna’s (played by Emma Nolan) What Do You Know About Love showcased the actors’ amazing talents of making the crowd laugh and smile. 

Anna was a wonderfully joyful and funny character, and I had so much fun watching her throughout the play. Sadhbh Brunnock as Elsa had such a beautiful voice, with perfectly delivered lines. I found myself laughing through Hygge and getting goosebumps through the incredible harmonies of I Can’t Lose You. 

As far as the audience reaction went, I heard a lot of laughter for Olaf and Sven (incredible job, Owen Kelly and Georgia Manning!) and giggles from many kids during Fixer Upper with the trolls and Kristoff. I’m not exaggerating when I tell you I heard loud gasps from the people around me when Hans (played by Jayce Crichlow) revealed his true nature.

In short, I would give this play 10 gold stars! The MHS theater program executed everything perfectly, from music, lights, acting, and costumes. I want to congratulate everyone who was in it, and let me speak for us all when we say: we can’t wait to see what you do next!