With a cast of over fifty talented local young performers aged from 8 to 18 years old, Live Oak Theatre’s production of Disney’s “Frozen Jr.” promises nothing less than oodles of summer musical magic. “Frozen Jr.” will be performed over two weekends, Thursday through Sunday, May 1 through May 11. This musical adventure is perfect for the whole family. It features all our favorite songs, such as “Let it Go,” “Love Is An Open Door,” “In Summer,” “For The First Time In Forever,” and many more that have been written especially for stage production.
A fanciful and heartwarming stage adaptation of the popular animated film “Frozen,” join sisters Anna and Elsa, and all of their other favorite characters as they plunge into an epic, ice-filled journey of self-discovery, camaraderie, and the real meaning of true love.
“The main roles are double cast,” said Vince Vanni, Live Oak Theatre and Conservatory spokesperson. “The really engaging thing is that the audience gets to see Elsa and Anna aging — from a young Elsa and Anna to a pre-teen Elsa and Anna, then to teen Elsa and Anna,” he said. “It’s amazing to see the different cast members adopt the same characteristics of the characters.”
“Frozen Jr.” is about love and acceptance between siblings, including the importance of putting others’ needs before your own, not judging others, and overcoming fear and isolation. The show expands on the emotional bond between Anna and Elsa, and the importance of letting go of past hurts and grudges.
Live Oak Theatre brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life, onstage. “The costuming for ‘Frozen Jr.’ is very important,” explained Vanni. “Because of the intimacy of our theatre, major sets cannot be constructed, so we rely primarily on heavy costuming. There’s also about 50 cast members between the ages of 8 and 18, who will be playing many different characters, and requiring several costume changes,” he said.
“The coolest costume change occurs right in front of the audience at the end of the first act, as Elsa sings “Let it Go.” In the movie, you see her costume changing color right in front of you. We are working on making this happen for our audience,” said Vanni.
“Also, I am personally amazed at the singing and dancing of these young performers. The harmonies are outstanding, especially when you consider their ages,” Vanni exclaimed. “Also, there are tap and other forms of dance, you can even see the ballet and lyrical influences — we do not lip-sync. The kids sing and dance live.”
Seats are $25 for adults, $10 for children 13 and under with the purchase of an adult seat. “Frozen Jr.” will be performed over two weekends, Thursday through Sunday, May 1 through May 11. To reserve seating, go to https://www.liveoaktheatre.org/current-production, email [email protected], or call 352-593-0027. (All matinees are sold out, but seats are still available for all evening performances.)
All performances are at the Carol and Frank Morsani Center for the Arts, 21030 Cortez Boulevard, Brooksville, Florida 34601. The Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening shows are at 7:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday matinees are at 2:30 p.m. Doors open approximately 30 minutes before showtime.
