When I personally heard that Disney’s Frozen was coming to town, not only I was excited, I have two little girls who have seen the movie approximately 7,654,321 times so sometimes I even dream in Olaf! We entered the theatre feeling ambivalent but left a huge fan.

The show is absolutely amazing and they have made enough changes to the songs and book that there are still surprises for all. Our favourite new song is ‘Hygge’, which also includes some adult humour - much appreciated and hilarious. If you go, be prepared for a sea of young girls in braids and sparkly costumes, and just let yourself go into the joy and excitement because we promise it is worth it. The reason that there are currently four separate Disney Frozen tours packing theatres worldwide spreading Elsa’s magic, is that it is an incredible show.

Disney’s Frozen features a large and impressive cast of actors, ensemble actors and swings. The roles of child Anna and Elsa alternate between performances, with us having the pleasure of watching Erin Choi and Annie Piper Braverman as Elsa and Anna respectively. Other stand out cast members include Lauren Nicole Chapman as adult Anna who is so athletic and brings a lot of cheekiness to the role, and Caroline Bowman is a powerful and stoic adult Elsa. Actor Jeremy Davis uses hilarious puppetry to create Olaf, designed by Michael Curry, and we also absolutely love Evan Duff as Weselton as he brings joy and silliness to an otherwise eccentric character. This is a show with so much going on that it would be easy to be overlooked and every performer shines spectacularly.

The sets and costumes are amazing, with Elsa’s ice castle spectacular. Natasha Katz’s lighting, video design by Finn Ross, special effects by Jeremy Chernick, and set and costume design by Christopher Oram are impeccable, making the audience literally gasp in unison multiple times during the show.

Disney’s Frozen is only in Philadelphia for a few weeks before heading on the rest of its North American tour. Disney Theatrical Group partners with every theatre to provide a welcoming space for everyone to share in the irreplaceable experience of live theatre.

Magical and thrilling.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Jamie Flowers

Disney’s Frozen plays at the Academy of Music, Ensemble Arts, Philadelphia now until 7 April, with tickets available here.