My daughter and I have been talking about seeing Disney’s FROZEN the Musical since we learned of its adaptation for the stage back in 2018. We have a special bond over the story. She was four years old when the movie was released and so seeing all the little girls dressed up as Elsa and Anna on our way into the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center for Broadway Sacramento’s production of the show brought me back to her early childhood — when princess dresses were constantly worn and “Let It Go” was played on a repeat throughout our home and in the car. To say we were both excited to step through the gates of Arendell is an understatement.

It’s no surprise at all how popular Disney’s FROZEN has become over the years. It tells the story of sisters Elsa (Caroline Bowman) and Anna (Lauren Nicole Chapman) and their journey to connect again after a disastrous childhood playtime event left Anna memory-less of her sister’s magical powers. Elsa withdraws from Anna in fear of hurting her again, and in turn, the sisters become disconnected as they grow into adulthood. So many emotions are felt throughout the show. We experienced loneliness, sacrifice, deceit, and…a silly talking snowman who is obsessed with summer. Most importantly though, we experienced the true bond of sisterly love and how that alone can thaw even the coldest of hearts.

Although the adult characters were phenomenal in their roles, Young Elsa (Sydney Elise Russell) and Young Anna (Aria Kane) stole the stage. Both of them enveloped the characteristics of their character in their youth, and I couldn’t help but smile as they did so. Their timing had to be exact for the magic to happen and they did not skip a beat. Honestly, all the actors were fantastic. From the dancing of the ensemble, (“Hygge” being my favorite), the blocking of each scene, to the belting of the iconic song “Let it Go”, it was amazing to see all the actors nailing it. They truly brought the Disney story to life on the stage.

I would be remiss if I failed to mention the sets and costuming of this show. I’m confident when I say that they were probably the best I’ve ever seen. The sets were so real that I not only saw the cold and warmth, but I could almost feel them too. The transitions were seamless. From the gates of Arendell, to the very feminine and immaculate ice castle that Elsa builds, to then a winter snowstorm that Kristoff (Dominic Dorset) thrives in, to the warm summer day Olaf (Jeremy Davis) longs to experience, I felt like I was truly there. Sven (Collin Baja) and Olaf’s costumes were remarkable as well. The actors controlling them brought those characters to life. Although we didn’t hear or see the actor who plays Sven, I think it’s safe to say that his role was probably the most difficult and his performance was absolutely impressive. Even though most costumes were authentic to the movie, there were some surprises along the way. One of our favorites being the glowing eyes of the Hidden Folk. They were creepy, but inviting all at the same time.

Disney’s FROZEN celebrates family, love, imagination, and the unbreakable bond of sisterhood. Don’t be surprised if you leave the theater feeling happy and warm inside. Disney’s FROZEN is playing at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center now through Sunday, January 15, 2023. Get your tickets today. You’re not going to want to let this one go.

The blog was written by Visit Sacramento’s Destination Partnerships & Community Engagement Manager Rachael Durling.