Since its release, the Disney movie Frozen has earned $1.2 billion worldwide, becoming the fifth-highest-grossing film of all time and by far the highest-grossing animation. In September 2021, the musical finally arrived in the West End. The historic Theatre Royal Drury Lane in Covent Garden reopened following an extensive restoration (a two-year, £60-million project) and became the home of this heart-melting theatrical production.
With incredible special effects by Jeremy Chernick, stunning costumes and jaw-dropping scenery by Neil Austin and Christopher Oram as well as all the songs we all know (even if you haven't seen the movie – like me – you know the songs), this musical extravaganza is a magical and imaginative experience.
Frozen is brought to the stage by an award-winning creative team, with direction by Tony and Olivier Award winner Michael Grandage and a book by Academy and BAFTA Award winner Jennifer Lee. As well as the hit songs from the original film, the musical features new songs by Grammy and Academy Award-winning writers Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. One of them, is a funny song based on the Nordic idea of hygge, with the characters dancing their way out of a sauna. Probably the most hilarious moment of the show.
One of the most epic musical numbers happens before the end of act one: Samantha Barks who, thanks also to a breath-taking transformation of the entire stage, creates an unforgettable moment. Her performance of “Let it go” is powerful and emotional. Emily Lane is the goofy and courageous Anna, while the brilliant Craig Gallivan is the charming snowman Olaf, who steals hearts again in the same way he already did back when the film was released in 2013. The reindeer Sven is brought to life by Mikayla Jade.
Other new songs are 'I Can't Lose You,' not originally featured in the Broadway show, alongside the beautiful 'Monster' and Elsa and Anna's duet in 'For The First Time In Forever'.
From children dressed up as the main characters in the film to adults singing and dancing to their favourite songs, everyone inside the auditorium has a good time as everything they know and love is recreated in front of their eyes. The new Frozen musical does not only live up to the expectations but it leaves you wanting for more as it takes risks and goes beyond anything we have seen in musicals before.
You can find tickets from £29 here - and you can use the code LTR8 for an extra 8% discount!
Photos: Michael Wharley and Trevor Leighton
