Frozen: The Broadway Musical
Set in the fictional Scandinavian land of Arendelle, Frozen tells the story of royal sisters Elsa and Anna, who are torn apart by Elsa’s icy powers. When Elsa sets Arendelle into eternal winter, Anna seeks to save her sister and finds the meaning of true love. Filmed live in the West End in 2024, and available on Disney Plus from June 20, 2025.
Where to watch
- Disney Plus
- Disney Plus on AppleTV
theatrical history
Animated Film
Frozen was released on November 27, 2013. It marked Disney’s 53rd animated feature and 24th 3-D animated film. Directed by Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee, it was the first Disney animated feature with a female director at the helm, and the first to feature two female protagonists.
The film featured the voice talents of Kristen Bell (Anna), Idina Menzel (Elsa) Jonathan Groff (Kristof), Josh Gad (Olaf), Chris Williams (Oaken), Alan Tudyk (Duke of Weselton), and Santino Fontana (Hans). Idina Menzel appeared Chess in Concert and in the finale of RENT filmed live on Broadway, and Jonathan Groff plays King George in the filmed live capture of Hamilton.
Frozen’s score was written by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, and included songs “For the First Time in Forever,” “Love is an Open Door,” “In Summer,” “Do You Wanna Build a Snowman,” “Fixer Upper,” and “Let It Go.”
Frozen was an enormous success, grossing $1.3billion worldwide. It was the highest grossing animated film in history until it was outranked by Frozen II in 2020 which earned $1.325 billion. At the time of writing, the films retain their top 2 positions as the highest grossing animated films.
Frozen was nominated for, and won, a slew of awards including Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature Film and Best Original Song, a Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature Film, a BAFTA for Best Animated Film, and a Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media.
In November 2019, Disney released a feature length sequel, Frozen 2: Into the Unknown.
Frozen III is slated for a 2027 release.
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
A stage show featuring the songs and clips from the film, and appearances from Anna, Elsa, and Kristof, For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration began performances at the Disney Hollywood Studios in July 2014. The show was also briefly performed at Disney California Adventure.
A new version featuring Olaf premiered in Hong Kong Disneyland in June 2015 under the title Frozen Festival Show. The show opened at Disneyland Paris in September 2015, and Shaghai Disneyland in 2016 under the original For the First Time in Forever title.
Stage Versions
In mid-2016, it was announced that three stage versions were in the works — Disney California Adventure, Disney Cruise Line, and a Broadway production.
Frozen - Live at the Hyperion
Frozen - Live at the Hyperion opened in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure on May 27, 2016. The stage show was directed by Liesl Tommy, with choreography by Christopher Windom, scenic design by Robert Brill, costume design by Clint Ramos, music supervision and arrangements by Jason Michael Webb, and puppet design by Michael Curry.
The show was performed up to 5 times a day and featured a rotating cast of 106 actors, with 24 actors in each show. In line with Disney policy to maintain the illusion of the characters being real, the names of the actors were not publicized.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Frozen - Live at the Hyperion closed on March 12, 2020. It was announced in October 2020 that the show would permanently remain closed.
Highlights from Frozen - Live at the Hyperion are currently available on YouTube.
Disney Cruise Line: Frozen, A Musical Spectacular
Frozen - Live at the Hyperion was further adapted into an hour-long condensed version for performance aboard Disney Cruise Line. Frozen, A Musical Spectacular premiered aboard the newly refurbished ship Disney Wonder in the 977-seat Walt Disney Theatre during a 4-night Western Caribbean Cruise departing Galveston, Texas on November 10, 2016.
On November 6, 2020 Disney Parks released a full-length video of Frozen, A Musical Spectacular on YouTube. Disney Parks had also previously released Tangled, and a 20 minute short featuring clips from Beauty and the Beast.
The Broadway Musical
Under the direction of Alex Timbers, developmental labs for a full-length Broadway show were held in New York City in May 2016. The cast included Betsy Wolfe (Elsa), Patti Murin (Anna), Okieriete Onaodowan (Kristof), and Greg HIldreth (Olaf).
In the summer of 2017, Alex Timbers was replaced as director by Michael Grandage. In September 2017, a pre-Broadway try-out was staged in Denver featuring Caissie Levy (Elsa; Next to Normal), Patti Murin (Anna), Jelani Alladin (Kristoff), Robert Creighton (Weselton), John Riddle (Hans), Kevin Del Aguila (Oaken), Timothy Hughes (Pabbie), and Andrew Pirozzi (Sven). The musical featured songs from the movie, and new songs by the original writing team including “Hygge,” “Monster,” and “True Love.”
Following 26 previews, Frozen officially opened on Broadway at the St. James Theatre on March 22, 2018, with the Denver cast reprising their roles.
The Broadway production was directed by Michael Grandage, with choreography by Rob Ashford, musical direction by Annbritt duChateau, scenic design by Christopher Oran, lighting design by Natasha Katz, sound design by Peter Hylenski, video design by Finn Ross, puppet design by Michael Curry, hair design by David Brian Brown, and make-design by Anne Ford-Coates.
Frozen ran until March 11, 2020 when it closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. In May 2020, it was announced that Frozen would not re-open.
In March 2021, a petition calling for the release of a filmed live version of the Broadway production was shared on Change.org. The petition stated that the new leads McKenzie Kurtz (Anna), Ciara Renée (Elsa) and Ryan McCartan (Hans) had only stepped into their roles a few weeks before the Broadway shutdown on March 12, 2020, and that fans wanted to see the show on screen as they had been able to do for Newsies or Hamilton. As of April 2021, the petition had received close to 3000 signatures.
West End Production
See Film History below.
Licensing
In July 2022, Disney Theatrical and Music Theatre International (MTI) announced The United States of Frozen, a competition to grant exclusive rights for high schools to perform Frozen. Applicants were required to demonstrate “how their production will use the theme “Love Is an Open Door” as an opportunity to strengthen their school community, provide outreach to underserved groups, and support inclusive and diverse theatre programs.”
The competition was later opened to secondary schools in the United Kingdom in 2024 under the title The United Kingdom of Frozen.
While the full version of Frozen is currently unavailable for licensing, young performer editions, Frozen JR., a 60-minute adaptation for middle school-aged performers, and Frozen KIDS, a 30-minute adaptation for elementary school-aged performers, are currently available through MTI. Both shows also provide the option of purchasing streaming rights.
Frozen was released on November 27, 2013. It marked Disney’s 53rd animated feature and 24th 3-D animated film. Directed by Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee, it was the first Disney animated feature with a female director at the helm, and the first to feature two female protagonists.
The film featured the voice talents of Kristen Bell (Anna), Idina Menzel (Elsa) Jonathan Groff (Kristof), Josh Gad (Olaf), Chris Williams (Oaken), Alan Tudyk (Duke of Weselton), and Santino Fontana (Hans). Idina Menzel appeared Chess in Concert and in the finale of RENT filmed live on Broadway, and Jonathan Groff plays King George in the filmed live capture of Hamilton.
Frozen’s score was written by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, and included songs “For the First Time in Forever,” “Love is an Open Door,” “In Summer,” “Do You Wanna Build a Snowman,” “Fixer Upper,” and “Let It Go.”
Frozen was an enormous success, grossing $1.3billion worldwide. It was the highest grossing animated film in history until it was outranked by Frozen II in 2020 which earned $1.325 billion. At the time of writing, the films retain their top 2 positions as the highest grossing animated films.
Frozen was nominated for, and won, a slew of awards including Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature Film and Best Original Song, a Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature Film, a BAFTA for Best Animated Film, and a Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media.
In November 2019, Disney released a feature length sequel, Frozen 2: Into the Unknown.
Frozen III is slated for a 2027 release.
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
A stage show featuring the songs and clips from the film, and appearances from Anna, Elsa, and Kristof, For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration began performances at the Disney Hollywood Studios in July 2014. The show was also briefly performed at Disney California Adventure.
A new version featuring Olaf premiered in Hong Kong Disneyland in June 2015 under the title Frozen Festival Show. The show opened at Disneyland Paris in September 2015, and Shaghai Disneyland in 2016 under the original For the First Time in Forever title.
Stage Versions
In mid-2016, it was announced that three stage versions were in the works — Disney California Adventure, Disney Cruise Line, and a Broadway production.
Frozen - Live at the Hyperion
Frozen - Live at the Hyperion opened in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure on May 27, 2016. The stage show was directed by Liesl Tommy, with choreography by Christopher Windom, scenic design by Robert Brill, costume design by Clint Ramos, music supervision and arrangements by Jason Michael Webb, and puppet design by Michael Curry.
The show was performed up to 5 times a day and featured a rotating cast of 106 actors, with 24 actors in each show. In line with Disney policy to maintain the illusion of the characters being real, the names of the actors were not publicized.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Frozen - Live at the Hyperion closed on March 12, 2020. It was announced in October 2020 that the show would permanently remain closed.
Highlights from Frozen - Live at the Hyperion are currently available on YouTube.
Disney Cruise Line: Frozen, A Musical Spectacular
Frozen - Live at the Hyperion was further adapted into an hour-long condensed version for performance aboard Disney Cruise Line. Frozen, A Musical Spectacular premiered aboard the newly refurbished ship Disney Wonder in the 977-seat Walt Disney Theatre during a 4-night Western Caribbean Cruise departing Galveston, Texas on November 10, 2016.
On November 6, 2020 Disney Parks released a full-length video of Frozen, A Musical Spectacular on YouTube. Disney Parks had also previously released Tangled, and a 20 minute short featuring clips from Beauty and the Beast.
The Broadway Musical
Under the direction of Alex Timbers, developmental labs for a full-length Broadway show were held in New York City in May 2016. The cast included Betsy Wolfe (Elsa), Patti Murin (Anna), Okieriete Onaodowan (Kristof), and Greg HIldreth (Olaf).
In the summer of 2017, Alex Timbers was replaced as director by Michael Grandage. In September 2017, a pre-Broadway try-out was staged in Denver featuring Caissie Levy (Elsa; Next to Normal), Patti Murin (Anna), Jelani Alladin (Kristoff), Robert Creighton (Weselton), John Riddle (Hans), Kevin Del Aguila (Oaken), Timothy Hughes (Pabbie), and Andrew Pirozzi (Sven). The musical featured songs from the movie, and new songs by the original writing team including “Hygge,” “Monster,” and “True Love.”
Following 26 previews, Frozen officially opened on Broadway at the St. James Theatre on March 22, 2018, with the Denver cast reprising their roles.
The Broadway production was directed by Michael Grandage, with choreography by Rob Ashford, musical direction by Annbritt duChateau, scenic design by Christopher Oran, lighting design by Natasha Katz, sound design by Peter Hylenski, video design by Finn Ross, puppet design by Michael Curry, hair design by David Brian Brown, and make-design by Anne Ford-Coates.
Frozen ran until March 11, 2020 when it closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. In May 2020, it was announced that Frozen would not re-open.
In March 2021, a petition calling for the release of a filmed live version of the Broadway production was shared on Change.org. The petition stated that the new leads McKenzie Kurtz (Anna), Ciara Renée (Elsa) and Ryan McCartan (Hans) had only stepped into their roles a few weeks before the Broadway shutdown on March 12, 2020, and that fans wanted to see the show on screen as they had been able to do for Newsies or Hamilton. As of April 2021, the petition had received close to 3000 signatures.
West End Production
See Film History below.
Licensing
In July 2022, Disney Theatrical and Music Theatre International (MTI) announced The United States of Frozen, a competition to grant exclusive rights for high schools to perform Frozen. Applicants were required to demonstrate “how their production will use the theme “Love Is an Open Door” as an opportunity to strengthen their school community, provide outreach to underserved groups, and support inclusive and diverse theatre programs.”
The competition was later opened to secondary schools in the United Kingdom in 2024 under the title The United Kingdom of Frozen.
While the full version of Frozen is currently unavailable for licensing, young performer editions, Frozen JR., a 60-minute adaptation for middle school-aged performers, and Frozen KIDS, a 30-minute adaptation for elementary school-aged performers, are currently available through MTI. Both shows also provide the option of purchasing streaming rights.
Film history
Frozen opened in the West End at the newly renovated Theatre Royal, Drury Lane on September 8, 2021.
Directed by Michael Grandage, the musical was choreographed by Rob Ashford, with set and costume design by Christopher Oram, lighting design by Neil Austin, sound design by Peter Hylenski, video design by Finn Ross, puppet design by Michael Curry, and musical supervision and arrangements by Stephen Oremus.
The cast featured Samantha Barks (Elsa), Stephanie McKeon (Anna), Obioma Ugoala (Kristoff), Craig Gallivan (Olaf), Oliver Ormson (Hans), Richard Frame (Weselton), Mikayla Jade, and Ashley Birchall (alternating the role of Sven). The role of Young Elsa was shared by Minaii.K, Sasha Watson-Lobo, Freya Scott, and Tilly-Raye Bayer. The role of Young Anna was shared by Kanon Narumi, Asanda Masike, Ellie Shenker, and Summer Betson.
The ensemble included Jeremy Batt, Cameron Burt, Lauren Chia, Laura Emmitt, Emily-Mae, Hannah Fairclough, Danielle Fiamanya, Chris Fung, Matt Gillett, Joe Griffiths-Brown, Emily Lane, Justin-Lee Jones, Jason Leigh Winter, Jacob Maynard, Leisha Mollyneaux, Gabriel Mokake, Sarah O’Connor, Jemma Revell, Joshua St. Clair, Jacqui Sanchez, Jak Skelly, Jake Small, Kerry Spark, Isabel Snaas, Monica Swayne, and Anna Woodside.
The West End production received glowing reviews, with critics praising the high production values, sumptuous costumes and scenic design, and surprising emotional punch of the story.
In a five star review for The Guardian, Arifa Akbar asked, “Does this adaptation live up to [the film’s] hefty legacy? Yes, and perhaps it even exceeds it.” Akbar went on to state “This is a show every bit as magical as the animation, packed with visual thrills and gorgeous choreography… It is big on spectacle yet never loses control with special effects that yield some dazzling coups de theatre.” Akbar praised the performances of the cast, the new songs, and the musical’s scenic design.
In another five star review for London Theatre, Suzy Evans enthused “The legendary ice queen likely feels at home in the completely redone Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which feels positively palatial with vaulted ceilings, detailed frescos, and golden accents.” Evans noted that the show felt more expansive in the West End compared to Broadway — “the musical has more room to breathe here and plays grander… The entire affair is much bigger than its initial Broadway outing.” Evans also noted that an additional number, “I Can’t Lose You” enhanced the relationship between Elsa and Anna.
In February 2024, Filmed on Stage reported that Frozen had been filmed live on stage in early February, and that the show had closed for several days to allow for the filming of close-ups and wide shots. The film was directed by Brett Sullivan (Kiss Me, Kate (2024), The Prince of Egypt, Waitress: The Musical, Kinky Boots, Newsies, Miss Saigon, and Billy Elliot) and filmed by Steam Motion and Sound.
In August 2024, it was announced at the annual D23 expo that Frozen was going to be released on Disney Plus in 2025.
After a three year run, Frozen closed in the West End on September 8, 2024.
The official West End Frozen website was updated in May 2025 to include an announcement about the upcoming Disney Plus release. At the time of writing, the site also features a short behind the scenes video, which takes viewers backstage at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane during pre-show.
Despite being filmed in the West End, the film is being promoted under the title Frozen: The Hit Broadway Musical.
Directed by Michael Grandage, the musical was choreographed by Rob Ashford, with set and costume design by Christopher Oram, lighting design by Neil Austin, sound design by Peter Hylenski, video design by Finn Ross, puppet design by Michael Curry, and musical supervision and arrangements by Stephen Oremus.
The cast featured Samantha Barks (Elsa), Stephanie McKeon (Anna), Obioma Ugoala (Kristoff), Craig Gallivan (Olaf), Oliver Ormson (Hans), Richard Frame (Weselton), Mikayla Jade, and Ashley Birchall (alternating the role of Sven). The role of Young Elsa was shared by Minaii.K, Sasha Watson-Lobo, Freya Scott, and Tilly-Raye Bayer. The role of Young Anna was shared by Kanon Narumi, Asanda Masike, Ellie Shenker, and Summer Betson.
The ensemble included Jeremy Batt, Cameron Burt, Lauren Chia, Laura Emmitt, Emily-Mae, Hannah Fairclough, Danielle Fiamanya, Chris Fung, Matt Gillett, Joe Griffiths-Brown, Emily Lane, Justin-Lee Jones, Jason Leigh Winter, Jacob Maynard, Leisha Mollyneaux, Gabriel Mokake, Sarah O’Connor, Jemma Revell, Joshua St. Clair, Jacqui Sanchez, Jak Skelly, Jake Small, Kerry Spark, Isabel Snaas, Monica Swayne, and Anna Woodside.
The West End production received glowing reviews, with critics praising the high production values, sumptuous costumes and scenic design, and surprising emotional punch of the story.
In a five star review for The Guardian, Arifa Akbar asked, “Does this adaptation live up to [the film’s] hefty legacy? Yes, and perhaps it even exceeds it.” Akbar went on to state “This is a show every bit as magical as the animation, packed with visual thrills and gorgeous choreography… It is big on spectacle yet never loses control with special effects that yield some dazzling coups de theatre.” Akbar praised the performances of the cast, the new songs, and the musical’s scenic design.
In another five star review for London Theatre, Suzy Evans enthused “The legendary ice queen likely feels at home in the completely redone Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which feels positively palatial with vaulted ceilings, detailed frescos, and golden accents.” Evans noted that the show felt more expansive in the West End compared to Broadway — “the musical has more room to breathe here and plays grander… The entire affair is much bigger than its initial Broadway outing.” Evans also noted that an additional number, “I Can’t Lose You” enhanced the relationship between Elsa and Anna.
In February 2024, Filmed on Stage reported that Frozen had been filmed live on stage in early February, and that the show had closed for several days to allow for the filming of close-ups and wide shots. The film was directed by Brett Sullivan (Kiss Me, Kate (2024), The Prince of Egypt, Waitress: The Musical, Kinky Boots, Newsies, Miss Saigon, and Billy Elliot) and filmed by Steam Motion and Sound.
In August 2024, it was announced at the annual D23 expo that Frozen was going to be released on Disney Plus in 2025.
After a three year run, Frozen closed in the West End on September 8, 2024.
The official West End Frozen website was updated in May 2025 to include an announcement about the upcoming Disney Plus release. At the time of writing, the site also features a short behind the scenes video, which takes viewers backstage at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane during pre-show.
Despite being filmed in the West End, the film is being promoted under the title Frozen: The Hit Broadway Musical.
Screenshot of advert for Frozen and Newsies on Disney Plus from https://disneyonbroadway.com/disneyplus/
Writing for Aussie Theatre, Belaid S noted “Viewers will experience the laughter, tears, gasps, and standing ovations as if they were truly sitting in the auditorium. Disney’s commitment to creating high-quality theatre captures marks a shift towards making theatrical experiences widely available, democratising what has long been considered a privileged pastime.”
Frozen was released on Disney Plus on June 20, 2025.
Frozen was released on Disney Plus on June 20, 2025.
cast & creative credits
Theatre: Theatre Royal, Drury Lane
Producer: Disney Theatrical, Natalie Daniels-Browne, Brett Sullivan
Book: Jennifer Lee
Music and Lyrics: Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez
Director: Michael Grandage Film: Brett Sullivan
Musical Director: Adam Rowe
Musical Supervision & Orchestrations: Stephen Oremus
Orchestrations: Dave Metzger
Additional Dance Arranger: David Chase
Choreography: Rob Ashford
Scenic and Costume Design: Christopher Oram
Lighting Design: Neil Austin Film Lighting Director: Clayton Jacobsen
Sound Design: Peter Hylenski Film Audio Production: Lee McCutcheon
Video Design: Finn Ross
Puppetry Design: Michael Curry
Hair Design: David Brian Brown
Make-Up Design: Ann Ford-Coates
Special Effects Design: Jeremy Chernick
Stage Manager: Chris Hesketh
Film Editors: David Tregoning, Marko Keser
Cast:
Samantha Barks (Elsa)
Laura Dawkes (Anna)
Jammy Kasongo (Kristoff)
Craig Gallivan (Olaf)
Oliver Ormson (Hans)
Richard Frame (Duke of Weselton)
Mikayla Jade and Ashley Birchall (Sven)
Martha Bailey Vine (Young Anna)
Elizabeth Lyons (Young Elsa)
Tabitha Storton (Young Folk Child)
Phoebe Penfold (Standby Young Elsa)
Maddy Collings (Alternate Young Anna)
Azalea Zona Omar Harris (Alternate Young Anna)
Wren Erskine (Alternate Young Elsa)
Aanya Shah (Alternate Young Elsa)
Pabbie (Ben Irish)
Lizzy-Rose Esin-Kelly (Bulda)
Jak Skelly (Oaken/Bishop)
Jacqui Sanchez (Queen Iduna)
Ashley J Daniels (King Agnarr)
Ensemble:
Rhianne Alleyne
Rebecca Botterill
Gabrielle Cocca
Ashely J Daniels
Lizzy-Rose Esin-Kelly
Jemal Feliz
Jordan Fox
Molly Francis
Isabella Glanznig Santos
Dominic Adam Griffin
George Hinson
Ben Irish
Aoife Kenny
Jonathan Milton
Jacqui Sanchez
Jak Skelly
Caitlin Tipping
Rodney Vubya
Tabitha Storton
Swings:
Marianne Bardgett
Oliver Brenin
Laura Emmitt
Matt Gillett
Justin-Lee Jones
Jordan Livesey
Harriet Samuels
Ed Wade
Anna Woodside
Orchestra
Carrie Grant (Keyboard)
Mark Etherington (Piano)
Tim Goodyer (Drums and Percussion)
Beth Symmons (Double Bass and Bass Guitar)
Nick Laughlin (Double Bass and Bass Guitar)
Huw Davies (Guitars and Mandolin)
Michael Keelan (Violin)
Rachel Lander (Cello)
Mike Davis (Flute, Piccolo, Alto Sax and Soprano Saxophones)
Neil Crossley (Flute, Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone)
Anna Douglass (French Horn)
Toby Coles (Trumpet 1 and Flugel)
Martin Evans (Trumpet 2 and Flugel)
Christopher Augustine (Tenor and Bass Trombones)
Producer: Disney Theatrical, Natalie Daniels-Browne, Brett Sullivan
Book: Jennifer Lee
Music and Lyrics: Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez
Director: Michael Grandage Film: Brett Sullivan
Musical Director: Adam Rowe
Musical Supervision & Orchestrations: Stephen Oremus
Orchestrations: Dave Metzger
Additional Dance Arranger: David Chase
Choreography: Rob Ashford
Scenic and Costume Design: Christopher Oram
Lighting Design: Neil Austin Film Lighting Director: Clayton Jacobsen
Sound Design: Peter Hylenski Film Audio Production: Lee McCutcheon
Video Design: Finn Ross
Puppetry Design: Michael Curry
Hair Design: David Brian Brown
Make-Up Design: Ann Ford-Coates
Special Effects Design: Jeremy Chernick
Stage Manager: Chris Hesketh
Film Editors: David Tregoning, Marko Keser
Cast:
Samantha Barks (Elsa)
Laura Dawkes (Anna)
Jammy Kasongo (Kristoff)
Craig Gallivan (Olaf)
Oliver Ormson (Hans)
Richard Frame (Duke of Weselton)
Mikayla Jade and Ashley Birchall (Sven)
Martha Bailey Vine (Young Anna)
Elizabeth Lyons (Young Elsa)
Tabitha Storton (Young Folk Child)
Phoebe Penfold (Standby Young Elsa)
Maddy Collings (Alternate Young Anna)
Azalea Zona Omar Harris (Alternate Young Anna)
Wren Erskine (Alternate Young Elsa)
Aanya Shah (Alternate Young Elsa)
Pabbie (Ben Irish)
Lizzy-Rose Esin-Kelly (Bulda)
Jak Skelly (Oaken/Bishop)
Jacqui Sanchez (Queen Iduna)
Ashley J Daniels (King Agnarr)
Ensemble:
Rhianne Alleyne
Rebecca Botterill
Gabrielle Cocca
Ashely J Daniels
Lizzy-Rose Esin-Kelly
Jemal Feliz
Jordan Fox
Molly Francis
Isabella Glanznig Santos
Dominic Adam Griffin
George Hinson
Ben Irish
Aoife Kenny
Jonathan Milton
Jacqui Sanchez
Jak Skelly
Caitlin Tipping
Rodney Vubya
Tabitha Storton
Swings:
Marianne Bardgett
Oliver Brenin
Laura Emmitt
Matt Gillett
Justin-Lee Jones
Jordan Livesey
Harriet Samuels
Ed Wade
Anna Woodside
Orchestra
Carrie Grant (Keyboard)
Mark Etherington (Piano)
Tim Goodyer (Drums and Percussion)
Beth Symmons (Double Bass and Bass Guitar)
Nick Laughlin (Double Bass and Bass Guitar)
Huw Davies (Guitars and Mandolin)
Michael Keelan (Violin)
Rachel Lander (Cello)
Mike Davis (Flute, Piccolo, Alto Sax and Soprano Saxophones)
Neil Crossley (Flute, Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone)
Anna Douglass (French Horn)
Toby Coles (Trumpet 1 and Flugel)
Martin Evans (Trumpet 2 and Flugel)
Christopher Augustine (Tenor and Bass Trombones)
awards & nominations
2013 Film
The original 2013 animation has won 83 awards. Below is a short highlight.
2014 Academy Awards
Wins
2014 BAFTA Awards
Wins
2014 Golden Globe Awards
Wins
2015 Grammy Awards
Wins
Broadway Production
2018 Tony Awards
Nominations
2018 Drama Desk Awards
Wins
West End Production
2022 Olivier Awards
Nominations
The original 2013 animation has won 83 awards. Below is a short highlight.
2014 Academy Awards
Wins
- Best Animated Feature Film of the Year
- Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Original Song
2014 BAFTA Awards
Wins
- Best Animated Feature
- BAFTA Children’s Award: BAFTA Kid’s Vote - Feature Film
2014 Golden Globe Awards
Wins
- Best Animated Feature Film
- Best Original Song - Motion Picture (Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez)
2015 Grammy Awards
Wins
- Best Song Written for Visual Media (Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez)
- Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media (Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez)
- Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media (Christophe Beck)
Broadway Production
2018 Tony Awards
Nominations
- Best Musical
- Best Book of a Musical (Jennifer Lee)
- Best Original Score Written for Theatre (Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez)
2018 Drama Desk Awards
Wins
- Outstanding Puppet Design (Michael Curry)
- Outstanding Actor in a Musical (Jelani Alladin)
West End Production
2022 Olivier Awards
Nominations
- Best New Musical
- Best Actress in a Musical (Stephanie McKeon)
- Best Costume Design (Christopher Oram)
- Best Lighting Design (Neil Austin)
research sources
Articles
Websites
- Bailee Abell, “Two Popular Disneyland Shows Officially Close,” Inside the Magic (Oct 10, 2020)
- Bailee Abell, “Thousands of Fans Want Disney to Release Filmed ‘Frozen’ Musical,” Inside the Magic (March 29, 2021)
- Arifa Akbar, “Frozen review – stunning musical extravaganza creates its own magic,” The Guardian (Sept 8, 2021)
- Chris Arneson, “Denver gets Frozen by Latest Disney Musical,” Out Front Magazine (Sept 26, 2017)
- Geri Bain, “Onboard Review: Disney Wonder, Reimagined,” Recommend (Jan 1, 2017)
- Belaid S, “FROZEN Live Film Brings West End Magic Home,” Aussie Theatre (May 17, 2025)
- Ricky Brigante, “Frozen Summer Fun event debuts at Walt Disney World as Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, and Olaf appear in delightful new shows,” Inside the Magic (July 5, 2014)
- Brittany Chrusciel, “'Frozen, The Musical' on Disney Cruise Line,” Cruise Critic (Sept 21, 2017)
- Brittany Chrusciel, “Disney Wonder,” Cruise Critic (undated)
- Logan Culwell-Block, “West End Frozen Live Film Sets Disney+ Streaming Premiere,” Playbill (May 16, 2025)
- Jerry Cunningham, “The 411,” Out Front Magazine (Sept 26, 2017)
- Emily Davis, “Review: Frozen the Musical, Theatre Royal Drury Lane,” Exuent (Sept 13, 2021)
- Suzy Evans, “'Frozen' review - a magical spectacle full of humour and heart,” London Theatre (Sept 8, 2021)
- Kimberly Fidler, “Disney Wonder Review,” Get Away Today (Oct 30, 2018)
- Andrew Gans, “Frozen Closes in London's West End September 8,” Playbill (Sept 8, 2024)
- Stephen Holden, “From the Heat of Royal Passion, Poof! It’s Permafrost,” New York Times (Nov 26, 2013)
- JeniLynn Knopp, “REVIEW: “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular” can melt “Frozen” hearts,” Inside the Magic (Feb 3, 2017)
- Laughing Place Disney Newsdesk, “Disney Cruise Line Presents “Frozen: A Musical Spectacular” As Part of #DisneyMagicMoments Series,” Laughing Desk (Nov 7, 2020)
- Jason Leppert, “‘Frozen’ Fun Comes to Life on Disney Cruise Line’s Updated Disney Wonder,” Travel Pulse (Nov 14, 2016)
- Mary McNamara, “Review: Anna and Elsa are unstoppable in Disney’s ‘Frozen Live’ at California Adventure,” LA Times (May 27, 2016)
- Michael Paulson and Brooks Barnes, “Let It Go Go Go! Three Stage Versions of ‘Frozen’ Are on the Way,” New York Times (June 6, 2016)
- Rebecca Rubin, “‘Frozen 2’ Is Now the Highest-Grossing Animated Movie Ever,” Variety (Jan 5, 2020)
- Scott Sanders, “Disney Cruise Line Shares Full Video of Frozen, A Musical Spectacular,” Disney Cruise Line Blog (Nov 6, 2020)
- Carly Scott, “#DisneyMagicMoments: Let it Go with a Virtual Viewing of Disney Cruise Line’s ‘Frozen, A Musical Spectacular’” Disney Parks Blog (Nov 6, 2020)
- Shawn Slater, “Setting the Stage for ‘Frozen – Live at the Hyperion’ at Disney California Adventure Park,” Disney Parks Blog (April 15, 2016)
- THR Staff, “Disney Replaces Director of Broadway-Bound 'Frozen' Musical,” The Hollywood Reporter (Sept 23, 2016)
- Diep Tran, “Disney Announces Greatest Showman Live Musical and Frozen Stage Capture,” Playbill (Aug 9, 2024)
- Uncredited, “London’s Frozen the Musical Filmed for Disney Plus Release,” Filmed on Stage
- Chris Wiegand, “Letting it go: Frozen fans bid farewell to West End musical,” The Guardian (Sept 9, 2024)
Websites
- AllEars.net, “Frozen – Live at the Hyperion Theater Hollywood Pictures Backlot Disney California Adventure,” Accessed via: https://allears.net/disneyland/dlr-planning/frozen-live-at-the-hyperion-theater-hollywood-pictures-backlot-disney-california-adventure/
- Change.org, “Release a filmed stage production of Frozen with the most recent Broadway cast,”
- Accessed via: https://www.change.org/p/the-walt-disney-company-have-frozen-on-broadway-professionally-filmed-with-the-most-recent-broadway-cast
- City News Service, “New Stage Musical Based on ‘Frozen' Opens at Disney California Adventure,” NBC Los Angeles (May 27, 2016)
- Disney, “Movies: Frozen,” Accessed via: https://movies.disney.com/frozen
- Disney Cruise Line, “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular” Accessed via: https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/onboard-activities/frozen-musical/
- Disney Cruise Line Blog, “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular” Accessed via: https://disneycruiselineblog.com/cruise-planning/live-stage-shows/frozen-a-musical-spectacular/
- IBDb, “Frozen,” Accessed via: https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/frozen-515657
- IMDb, “Frozen (1) (2013): Awards,” Accessed via: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2294629/awards?ref_=tt_awd
- Music Theatre International, “The United Kingdom of Frozen,” Accessed via: https://www.mtishows.co.uk/united-kingdom-of-frozen-0
- Music Theatre International, “The United States of Frozen,” Accessed via: https://www.mtishows.com/news/apply-to-the-united-states-of-frozen-competition
- The Numbers, “All Time Worldwide Animated Box Office,” Accessed via: https://www.the-numbers.com/box-office-records/worldwide/all-movies/cumulative/all-time-animated
- Oh My Disney, “Additional Details of Shanhai Disneyland Revealed,” Accessed via: https://ohmy.disney.com/insider/2015/07/29/additional-details-of-shanghai-disneyland-revealed/
- Playbill, “Frozen,” Accessed via: https://www.playbill.com/production/frozen-st-james-theatre-2017-2018
- Touring Plans, “Frozen - Live at the Hyperion,” Accessed via: https://touringplans.com/disney-california-adventure/attractions/frozen-live
Written by Luisa Lyons (May 2025)
PODCAST
Hear film director Brett Sullivan discuss the impact of AI in filming live theatre, filming for live broadcast, working with stage directors who are also film directors, the process behind setting up for a live capture, capturing footage for Here Lies Love, and what’s in the archive. Recorded in July 2023.