Frozen is an exciting musical that brings the beloved animated film to life.
It tells the story of Queen Elsa who possesses powers she can’t contain, after she can no longer conceal her powers, she creates an eternal winter. Her sister Anna then goes after her, making new friends along the way and figuring out how to bring summer back. Getting to experience Frozen Live was definitely a fun time.
The production opened March 6 at the Jefferson Performing Arts Society, with 2 shows remaining, Saturday, March14 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, March 15 beginning at 2 p.m.
JPAS has a season of many musicals, plays, and more that often feature local talent from all around Louisiana. This season they put on many shows, including Waitress, Jagged Little Pill, Our City of Saints, and Rudolph!
Speaking of local talent, the Frozen cast includes a few of Loyola’s musical theatre and opera students! Sophomores Emy Farber, Alyssa Daigle, and Colin Richard, can be found in this spectacular production.
Farber and Daigle both can be found in the ensemble as townsfolk, the fixer uppers, and more. Richard plays Kristoff. Richard explained that the audition process had numerous steps and preparation involved.
“When arriving at auditions you are given a number and you sing a 32 bar cut version of a song of your choosing! All the directors for the whole season watch as you perform for them, then you may be called for a call back where they have you read and sing for certain characters. There also is a dance call where the choreographer teaches those auditioning a short dance, you then do it in groups,” Richard said.
Daigle has found the experience rewarding. She’s enjoyed working with people she cares about and building new connections.
“The best part of being in this show is being able to be in a show with my best friend for the first time, and also fostering new relationships with other actors and learning from them in time,” she said.
Daigle also explained that the most difficult part of being in the show is “how physically and emotionally demanding it is.”
Being a soprano in the show, Daigle has to sing super high while dancing all around the stage, which she finds challenging.
Richard explained that being in a cast with a wide range of ages makes this show very different from his experience in any of his vast high school productions. Additionally, working with so many different age groups has helped him become a better actor.
“Working with older actors has already helped me learn so much about my craft. It can be so much fun working with kids, and getting to watch the older actors help them learn new skills,” he said.“Every single person brings something to the show.”
Richard said he would like to continue like them for the future of his career.
Farber explained that she got involved with JPAS last summer through referrals from friends. She’s been having a great time with the production, despite how much time it requires.
“[I’ve] had so much fun with this show, though it’s certainly been challenging navigating rehearsals, schoolwork, and my busy schedule, but that’s what makes it so much more rewarding,” she said.
Farber expressed that it is so incredible to be able to be a part of a professional production while still being in school.
Local theatre productions can be found everywhere, and JPAS certainly puts on many vast shows and productions throughout the year. Soon they will be announcing next year’s shows. This information will be provided on their website. Going to the theatre can be a fun outing for families and friends. Who knows you may even see a familiar face or two! Getting to listen to live music and watch stories and dances unfold can be exciting and fun. At Loyola there are so many ways to get involved whether it be the theatre department, vast ensembles, sports teams, choirs, and more there’s always something waiting for you. If JPAS is what you’re looking for, auditions will be held over the summer, but you can check https://www.jpas.org/ for more information!
