DISNEY FROZEN @ KEY BANK STATE THEATRE

DISNEY FROZEN

AUGUST 11-SEPTEMBER 11, 2022

216-241-6000 or playhousesquare.org

Roy Berko

Disney has created some of Broadway’s most memorable musicals including THE LION KING, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, MARY POPPINS and NEWSIES THE MUSICAL.  FROZEN, unfortunately, does not deserve to join that exalted list. It’s not terrible, but kids will probably not be enchanted, adults should be adequately interested, and  all will be awed by the special effects and lighting. 

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

Disney has knocked it out of the park with the wondrous, icy world its creative team has invented for the stage production of "Frozen."

That's a tall order, translating the beloved 2013 animated film to the stage for the live musical, and this show exceeds all expectations in bringing the magic. "Frozen," whose North American tour is playing a five-week run through Sept. 11 at Playhouse Square's State Theatre, dazzles with its incredible special effects, gorgeous costuming and sets and touching story of self-sacrificing, sisterly love.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

Howard Gollop

Yes, Elsa (powerful Caroline Bowman) -- the ice queen who rejects the Norwegian  royal court that first rejects her in fear of her magic wintery powers -- ascends the glacial mount of her new ice palace to burst into a new icicle pantsuit as she belts out the runaway hit, "Let it Go." 

Yes, the cuddly snowman Olaf, deftly handled by the onstage puppeteer actor F. Michael Haynie, insinuates his lovable goofiness into the hearts of the audience. 

Yes, the stage erupts into one glittering ice spectacle into another, sending chills into even the most overheated audience member.

What doesn't seem to erupt into any sensation at all is the tepid book/script by Jennifer Lee -- at odds with itself in pursuit of a narrative that vacillates between sisterly bonding and male heroism-cum-villainy. 

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Sheri Gross
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning

When your youngsters come begging for you to take them to see the Broadway Touring Production of Disney’s “Frozen”, trust me. You will enjoy it as much if not more than they will. This is solid family entertainment that is great musical theater for all ages. 

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

This monumental touring production is highlighted by one number, the Act One closer "Let It Go," which is set in a glistening ice palace and is dazzling, stupefying and magical. It's tempting to say that song alone is worth the price of admission, but that's a tough call since the rest of the show stumbles as often as it soars.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

Bottom Line: It’s Disney so yes, it’s life lessons suitable for children. (Many excited princesses in full princess garb attended opening night.) As for adults? Well, after intermission, a short segment about Hygge (roughly translates as “good feelings”) with lightly-clad dancers enjoying a sauna seems designed for older visitors (and has nothing to do with the plot—except that it’s fun).

 Side Note: I was lucky enough to see the Broadway production of Frozen, with Baldwin Wallace University graduate Ciara Renée as Elsa, a few days before Broadway shut down in March 2020. This touring version includes some of the Broadway show’s special effects, but not all. Unfortunately, this reduces the impact of the production, one which depends on massive special effects to create an enchanted frozen world. I doubt its intended audience (young, first-time theater goers) and loyal Disney fans will care. Disney magic tends to conquer all.

To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Kate Klotzbach
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

Joey Morona

'Frozen" isn't the perfect musical.  It oftens feels overstuffed with extraneous musical numbers, elaborate costumes, larger-than-life sets and flashy effects serving as distractions from the somewhat flimsy story and numerous plot holes.  Still, its message of self-love and acceptance is something we should all be reminded of from time to time.  So, try seeing the show through the eyes of a child.  Feel, don't conceal.  Enjoy the spectacle and--you guessed it--just let it go. 

To see a full review of this show, read Joey's posts here.