MOOSE JAW — A group of young actors is hoping to “let it go” with their performance of a beloved Disney movie that they’re performing “for the first time in forever.”
The Harmony Arts Program Children’s Live Theatre is presenting “Frozen Jr.,” based on the 2018 Broadway musical — and the Jennifer Lee book — and brings Elsa, Anna and the magical land of Arendelle to life onstage.
The show features all the memorable songs from the animated film, with music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, plus five new songs written for the Broadway production.
The Mae Wilson Theatre is hosting Frozen Jr., on Friday, March 28 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, March 29 at 2 and 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the Centre for Arts and Culture’s box office or online at www.moosejawculture.ca.
The Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com spoke with some of the young performers during a recent rehearsal.
Aubrey Gallagher is one of three actors to play “Anna,” with the youngster portraying the princess as a child.
“I really like (the role). There’s lots of songs. Like, the first couple of songs I’m in all of them,” said Gallagher.
This is the seven-year-old’s first year with the program, and she explained that she joined after watching her friends participate in past performances. She enjoyed what she saw, while she saw it as an opportunity to act since it’s something she’s wanted to do.
“I think it’s going to be a really good (performance),” Gallagher added.
Stella Whitfield portrays “The Cook,” who helps Anna prepare for Elsa’s coronation and makes all the food.
“I love (the role), personally. It’s really fun to do,” she said.
Whitfield has been with the program for four years and has enjoyed working with the other kids and the directors. Her favourite part is performing for the audience and demonstrating what she can do, including how well she has memorized her lines.
Whitfield, 12, and the others have been practising since October and, in that time, she noted that rehearsals have gone well. She thought the show “needed a little bit of work,” but overall, the actors have accomplished plenty during the past five months.
Millie Watson portrays “Olaf,” a snowman who comes to life thanks to Elsa’s magic. The snowman likes summer and anything that’s fun, is “super positive,” energetic, upbeat and boosts everyone’s morale.
Watson noted that she doesn’t feel too much pressure in this role compared to those actors portraying Anna.
“I really enjoy playing this role. It’s definitely interesting because this is one of my first big roles that I’ve ever played … ,” she said. “It’s definitely a good learning experience.”
Watson has been with the program for three years and has enjoyed the experience since it’s helped her open up, learn new things, make friends and develop courage. She encouraged other young people to watch the play since it may convince them to join the program.
Bridgette Flanagan portrays “Elsa,” a princess who has powers of ice and snow and accidentally traps the kingdom in eternal winter. Elsa is angry at her older sister, Anna, since she objects to her sister’s marriage to a handsome prince.
Flanagan said she’s been with Harmony Arts Program for five years and feels good about performing with the group since it’s a fun experience, while she particularly enjoys the rehearsals and the dress rehearsals.
“It’s just really fun,” she remarked.
The 11-year-old added that acting is always something she’s wanted to do and is something she sees herself doing as a career, with singer Ariana Grande her inspiration.
