The Arts Club Theatre Company’s opening night of Disney’s Frozen was pure theatrical magic, a dazzling blend of heart, humour, and technical wonder that left the audience humming (and sometimes belting) its tunes all the way home.
From the first notes, the young stars set the tone for the evening. Nora Cowan as Young Elsa and Perla De Leon as Young Anna were utterly charming, capturing the innocence, warmth, and sisterly love that anchor the entire story. Their chemistry was palpable and immediately drew the audience into the heart of Arendelle.
Of course, the showstopper was that famous song, Let It Go. The production’s handling of this iconic moment was nothing short of breathtaking. Without giving too much away, keep your eyes on Elsa’s dress. The transformation drew audible gasps, oohs, and ahs from the crowd. The technical artistry and stagecraft behind that number alone were worth the price of admission.
The biggest surprise delight of the night came from Olaf, the ever-hopeful snowman who loves warm hugs. Joaquin Little as Olaf was a true joy, sweet, funny, and utterly endearing, embodying the beloved character with warmth and impeccable comedic timing. The puppet builders who brought both Olaf and Sven the Reindeer to life deserve high praise for their craftsmanship and coordination, turning these iconic sidekicks into living, breathing members of the cast.
Another highlight was the hilariously upbeat number Hygge. Jacob Woike’s Oaken brought infectious energy and comic delight, lighting up the stage with a scene that had everyone grinning from ear to ear.
The production’s emotional centre rested on the shoulders of its two leads, Synthia Yusuf as Anna and Chelsea Rose Winsby as Elsa. Both women brought immense warmth, nuance, and power to their roles, embodying the sisters’ love, struggles, and ultimate bond with depth and sincerity.
Kudos must go to the costumers, whose every detail, from shimmering ice-blue gowns to cozy Nordic sweaters, was exquisite, and to the technical team for delivering a show that was, quite literally, a wonder to behold.
If you’re a parent who has been living in the world of Frozen since 2013 (and there were plenty of little Elsas and Annas in the audience), prepare to be enchanted anew. This stage adaptation expands the story in meaningful ways, deepening its themes, bridging beautifully to Frozen 2, and filling in the moments we never knew we needed.
Whether you arrived excited, skeptical, or simply indulging your child’s Disney obsession, you’ll leave with a full heart and a few songs stuck in your head. The Arts Club’s Frozen is a joyous, breathtaking production that will melt even the frostiest of hearts.
A standing ovation well deserved.
The Arts Club Theatre Company Production of Disney’s Frozen runs at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage (BFL Canada Theatre) from October 30 to January 4.
Review by: Anna Wolak
