Prepare to fall in love with Disney’s FROZEN all over again, as a brand-new theatrical experience arrives in London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane this August.
Richard Frame – Photo by Mark McGee.Incredible special effects, stunning costumes and jaw-dropping scenery bring Elsa and Anna’s journey to life in a whole new way. And with all the beloved songs from the movie – as well as a few surprises from the writers behind Let it Go – you’ll be transported to Arendelle from the moment the curtain rises.
FROZEN is brought to the stage by an award-winning creative team, with direction by Tony® and Olivier Award winner Michael Grandage and a book by Academy® and BAFTA Award winner Jennifer Lee. The show features the cherished songs from the original film alongside new songs by Grammy® and Academy Award-winning writers Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez.
Read our Q&A with Richard Frame who plays Weselton.
Q: First of all, how did you feel when being cast in Frozen the Musical?
Richard: Well, it was quite surreal really. When my agent rang with the news I was standing about 10 metres in the air on a cherry picker, painting my friend’s chimney stack. My agent asked me if there was somewhere to sit down, so my first thought was that it was bad news. I think she was just worried I might fall off when I heard I’d been offered the role!! I sensibly chose not to jump up and down with excitement but I’m sure my reaction could be heard in the next village!
Q: What can you tell us about your character, Weselton and where he comes from?
Richard: He’s a power-hungry Duke from a neighbouring kingdom called Weselton. He arrives in Arendelle keen to do business with the newly crowned Queen Elsa but soon discovers she has mysterious, magical powers. Weselton is very narrow-minded and scared of things he doesn’t understand, and therefore turns against Elsa and attempts to spread fear throughout Arendelle. Although he likes to believe he is powerful and strong, he is, in fact, weak and scared and it is this juxtaposition that makes him so much fun to play.
Q: The film, Frozen is very popular with amazing special effects and scenery – can you tell us about your impression of the special effects and scenery in Frozen the Musical?
Richard: The special effects and scenery in the show are mind-blowing. The technology being used has pushed the limits of theatrical special effects and visually everything is stunning, from the scenery to the lighting. Even from the back of the stage, I’ve never seen anything as intricate and detailed as this. Normally when you look behind the stage flats, you’ll see wood and bracers but in this show, there is technology everywhere you look. And don’t even get me started about the ice bridge…
Q: Do you have a favourite scene in the film and or the musical?
Richard: Ah, there are so many to choose from but in the film, I’d have to say, ‘Do You Want to Build a Snowman?’. I remember watching it with my two sons when they were younger and they would crack up at young Anna singing through the keyhole to young Elsa. My favourite scene in the show is ‘For The First Time In Forever’ (not only because it’s when I make my grand entrance!) but because it’s a lovely climactic moment in our story when the gates of the palace open up after so long. It really resonates with me after everything we’ve all had to deal with over the past year or so.
Q: What thoughts about being back on stage after such a traumatic year?
Richard: I’m still pinching myself at times, to be honest. We’re currently in technical rehearsals so in full costume, mics and make-up. The stalls and even some of the dress circle are full of creatives and computers. So when the lights are up and we’re running scenes at full pelt it’s as if we’re doing it for real and at times it does get quite emotional. Goodness knows how it’ll feel when we’re packed out with a live audience and a full orchestra. It’s going to be incredible and I can’t wait.
Q: Why should everyone get along to see Frozen the Musical?
Richard: That’s a great question. I think everyone should see this show because it has the perfect combination of spectacular staging, show-stopping songs and incredible performances. It’s everything you could want in a musical. It feels fresh and new and I don’t think there is another show like it. Everyone involved in Frozen, from the creative team, to the actors and crew, have come together to create a really magical experience for audiences and anyone who comes to see it is in for a real treat!
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LISTINGS FROZEN
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Catherine Street, Covent Garden, London WC2B 5JF
