On Stage - Coming Attractions!

Here’s the show lineup for the week beginning Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2019. Upcoming shows are also listed. If I've missed anything, please let me know. Break legs, everyone! (Share freely!)

__________________________

ONSTAGE THIS WEEK:

“Disney’s Frozen, Jr.” - Portsmouth Area Arts Council presents the musical based on the animated film at the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts - Eloise Covert Smith Theater in Portsmouth, Ohio, on Nov. 8 and 9 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 10 at 2:30 p.m.

“Oklahoma” - Charleston Light Opera Guild present the beloved musical on November 8-10, 15-16, and 22-24 at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center Little Theatre.

“The Witches” - Portsmouth Little Theatre presents the pay based on the Roald Dahl story on Nov. 8, 9, 15 and 16. Lobby opens at 7 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m.

“9 to 5 the Musical” - Southern Coalition of the Arts will present the musical at the Southern WV Community and Technical College’s Logan Campus on Nov. 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 22 and 23.

Murder and Merriment (Interactive Murder Dinner Parties) For a complete list of upcoming murder parties, visit www.murderandmerriment-dot-com.

_____________________________

UPCOMING LIVE THEATRE

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night‐Time” - Marshall University’s School of Theatre presents the play based on the novel by Mark Haddon and adapted by Simon Stephens on Nov. 13 ‐16 and 20‐23 at 7:30 p.m. in the Francis‐Booth Experimental Theatre in the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center. Christopher is exceptional at mathematics but he has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched, and he distrusts strangers. Christopher is determined to solve the mystery of who murdered the dog Wellington. But his detective work, forbidden by his father, takes him on a thrilling journey that upturns his world. Tickets are $20 at the door, $15 for Seniors & Faculty, $7 for children 12 and under. Marshall University students admitted free with a valid ID.

“1984” - The Theatre Department at Spring Valley High School and The Timberwolf Theatre Company present their fall production on Friday, Nov. 15 and Saturday, Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 17 at 3 p.m. Tickets will be $5 per person.

“Rock of Ages” - The Alban Arts Center will present the musical that features the big music hits and the big hair of the ‘80s at the Alban Arts Center at 65 Olde Main Plaza in St. Albans on Nov. 15-17 and 21-24.

“A Gentlemen’s Guide to Love and Murder” - West Virginia State University will present the play at the Davis Fine Arts Theatre, WVSU. Performances are Nov. 19 - 22.

“ELF the Musical” - The Aracoma Story will present the musical based on the holiday film the last weekend of November and the first two weekends of December at the Coalfield Jamboree.

“Disney Frozen Jr.” - The Children’s Theatre of Charleston will present the musical based on the hit animated film on Dec. 12-15 at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center Little Theater. 

“Adventures in Santa Claus Land” - Astral Theatre Collective will present the play written by John Johnson at the Alban Arts Center over the first two weekends of December. A young girl and her siblings embark on the ultimate Christmas adventure, taking them to the North Pole where they will be confronted with the great question - "Do you believe?" Along the way they meet colorful characters, including Santa himself!

“Stuart Little” - First Stage Theatre Company will present the play based on the beloved book at Huntington City Hall auditorium on Dec. 13, 14 and 15.

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” - The Paramount Players will present the holiday play on Dec. 19 and 20 at 7:30 p.m.

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Little Mermaid Live

   I wasn't sure what to expect from this evening's TV production of Disney's The Little Mermaid Live!

   It was billed as a mix of live stage production and animation from the original film - they performed the songs live and the rest of the film's action was animated. It was admittedly a little wonky in places, but I enjoyed it - it was a terrific production!

   That's because they had a very talented cast, an outstanding stage production with impressive costumes and effects, and lots of clever tricks to move from live action to animation and back again.

   The biggest danger was that the live action performers would suffer from a direct comparison to their animated counterparts - after all, it takes years to create a film, where every performance can be fine-tuned, as opposed to a live performance where you get one chance to get it right!

   But they made it work, and the production didn't skimp on the effects - so they used flying effects to allow the mermaids to swim through the air, along with acrobats, dancers and amazing costumes.

    Kudos to young Auliʻi Cravalho (best known for voicing another Disney animated star, Moana) for turning in an excellent performance - part of it while suspended in mid-air!

   Queen Latifah brought lots of attitude, sass and star-power to the villainess Ursula (what an amazing costume she wore)! 

   Rounding out the singing cast was the talented Graham Phillips as Prince Eric (a couple of songs were added for him to sing), Shaggy as Sebastian (doing an excellent job of two of the show's biggest numbers - "Under the Sea" and "Kiss the Girl," and John Stamos chewing up the scenery with gusto as Chef Louis.

   I couldn't stop smiling throughout! (It doesn't hurt that the original film is such a classic!) Well worth tracking down for Disney fans of all ages!

On Stage and Upcoming Auditions

Here’s the show lineup for the week beginning Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2019. Upcoming shows are also listed. If I've missed anything, please let me know. Break legs, everyone! (Share freely!)

__________________________

ONSTAGE THIS WEEK:

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” - Huntington High School presents the magical play by William Shakespeare at the school’s auditorium at 1 Highlander Way on Nov. 1 and 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 3 at 2:30 p.m.

“Carrie the Musical” - The Paramount Players will present the musical based on the Stephen King book on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Paramount Arts Center in Ashland, Ky. The musical is rated “R.”

“Sweeney Todd: School Edition” - The Actor’s Guild of Parkersburg and the Guild Builders Teen Program are presenting the musical in collaboration with WVU-P. Performances will be held in the Little Theatre at WVU-P on Thursday, Oct. 31, Friday, Nov. 1, and Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 2 and Sunday, Nov. 3 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for Adults and $6 for Students. General Admission Seating.

"The Story of My Life" - The Smoot Theatre will present the two man musical by Neil Bartran and Brian Hill Nov. 2 at 8 p.m. in Parkersburg, WV. This show is a benefit performance to raise money for the John Lee Scholarship fund. Tickets are $15 with a special VIP reception after for an extra $10. Info and tickets here: https://www.smoottheatre.com/the-story-of-my-life.html

Murder and Merriment (Interactive Murder Dinner Parties) For a complete list of upcoming murder parties, visit www.murderandmerriment-dot-com.

_____________________________

UPCOMING LIVE THEATRE

“Disney’s Frozen, Jr.” - Portsmouth Area Arts Council presents the musical based on the animated film at the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts - Eloise Covert Smith Theater in Portsmouth, Ohio, on Nov. 8 and 9 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 10 at 2:30 p.m.

“9 to 5 the Musical” - Southern Coalition of the Arts will present the musical at the Southern WV Community and Technical College’s Logan Campus on Nov. 8, 9, 10, 15 and 16.

“Oklahoma” - Charleston Light Opera Guild present the beloved musical on November 8-10, 15-16, and 22-24 at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center Little Theatre.

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night‐Time” - Marshall University’s School of Theatre presents the play based on the novel by Mark Haddon and adapted by Simon Stephens on Nov. 13 ‐16 and 20‐23 at 7:30 p.m. in the Francis‐Booth Experimental Theatre in the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center. Christopher is exceptional at mathematics but he has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched, and he distrusts strangers. Christopher is determined to solve the mystery of who murdered the dog Wellington. But his detective work, forbidden by his father, takes him on a thrilling journey that upturns his world. Tickets are $20 at the door, $15 for Seniors & Faculty, $7 for children 12 and under. Marshall University students admitted free with a valid ID.

“1984” - The Theatre Department at Spring Valley High School and The Timberwolf Theatre Company present their fall production on Friday, Nov. 15 and Saturday, Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 17 at 3 p.m. Tickets will be $5 per person.

“Rock of Ages” - The Alban Arts Center will present the musical that features the big music hits and the big hair of the ‘80s at the Alban Arts Center at 65 Olde Main Plaza in St. Albans on Nov. 15-17 and 21-24.

“Aida” - West Virginia State University will present the musical by Elton John and Tim Rice at the Davis Fine Arts Theatre, WVSU. Performances are Nov. 19 - 22.

“ELF the Musical” - The Aracoma Story will present the musical based on the holiday film the last weekend of November and the first two weekends of December at the Coalfield Jamboree.

“Disney Frozen Jr.” - The Children’s Theatre of Charleston will present the musical based on the hit animated film on Dec. 12-15 at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center Little Theater. 

“Adventures in Santa Claus Land” - Astral Theatre Collective will present the play written by John Johnson at the Alban Arts Center over the first two weekends of December. A young girl and her siblings embark on the ultimate Christmas adventure, taking them to the North Pole where they will be confronted with the great question - "Do you believe?" Along the way they meet colorful characters, including Santa himself!

—————————

AUDITIONS:

“Stuart Little” - First Stage Theatre Company will offered auditions for the play based on the beloved book on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Pea Ridge United Methodist Church at 5747 East Pea Ridge Road in Huntington. The play is based on the children’s book by E.B. White. It tells the story of a talking mouse who is born to human parents in New York City. The play is adapted by Joseph Robinette for The Dramatic Publishing Company. The play will be presented at Huntington City Hall auditorium on Dec. 13, 14 and 15. Auditions are open the students from 1st grade through high school seniors. All those auditioning will read from a script provided. You may arrive for auditions anytime during the hours listed. There is no charge to be part of a First Stage show.

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” - The Paramount Players will hold auditions on Monday, Nov. 4 at 6 p.m. Auditions are open to anyone age 6 to adult. We have scripts available at the box office - please bring a $10 deposit per script, and they must be turned back in by Friday, Nov. 1.) Performance dates: Dec. 19 and 20. There will be two school performances on each of those days, 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., and a 7:30 p.m. performance each night.

Auditions Soon for "Stuart Little"

   Auditions for the play Stuart Little will be offered by First Stage Theatre Company on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Pea Ridge United Methodist Church at 5747 East Pea Ridge Road in Huntington.

   The play is based on the beloved children’s book by E.B. White. It tells the story of a talking mouse who is born to human parents in New York City. The play is adapted by Joseph Robinette for The Dramatic Publishing Company.

   The play will be presented at Huntington City Hall auditorium on Dec. 13, 14 and 15.

   Auditions are open the students from 1st grade through high school seniors. All those auditioning will read from a script provided. You may arrive for auditions anytime during the hours listed. There is no charge to be part of a First Stage show.

   The directing team includes Director Zach Davis, Assistant Director Madelein Jackson and Costume Designer Tish Maynard.

   Stuart Little is the second show in the 30th season for Huntington’s long-running children’s theatre. Based in Huntington, W.Va., the First Stage Theatre Company is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing an educational, developmental experience for young people through the performing arts.

On Stage

Here’s the show lineup for the week beginning Wednesday, October 23, 2019. Upcoming shows are also listed. If I've missed anything, please let me know. Break legs, everyone! (Share freely!)

__________________________

ONSTAGE THIS WEEK:

“The Diary of Anne Frank” - GWHS Theatre of the Nevertheless will present the play on Oct. 25 and 26 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 27 at 1 p.m. at the George Washington High School Auditorium. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students. (Warning: sensitive subject matter.)

Murder and Merriment (Interactive Murder Dinner Parties) For a complete list of upcoming murder parties, visit www.murderandmerriment-dot-com.

_____________________________

UPCOMING LIVE THEATRE

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” - Huntington High School presents the magical play by William Shakespeare at the school’s auditorium at 1 Highlander Way on Nov. 1 and 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 3 at 2:30 p.m.

“Carrie the Musical” - The Paramount Players will present the musical based on the Stephen King book on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Paramount Arts Center in Ashland, Ky. The musical is rated “R.”

“Sweeney Todd: School Edition” - The Actor’s Guild of Parkersburg and the Guild Builders Teen Program are presenting the musical in collaboration with WVU-P. Performances will be held in the Little Theatre at WVU-P on Thursday, Oct. 31, Friday, Nov. 1, and Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 2 and Sunday, Nov. 3 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for Adults and $6 for Students. General Admission Seating.

"The Story of My Life" - The Smoot Theatre will present the two man musical by Neil Bartran and Brian Hill Nov. 2 at 8 p.m. in Parkersburg, WV. This show is a benefit performance to raise money for the John Lee Scholarship fund. Tickets are $15 with a special VIP reception after for an extra $10. Info and tickets here: https://www.smoottheatre.com/the-story-of-my-life.html

“9 to 5 the Musical” - Southern Coalition of the Arts will present the musical at the Southern WV Community and Technical College’s Logan Campus on Nov. 8, 9, 10, 15 and 16.

“Oklahoma” - Charleston Light Opera Guild present the beloved musical on November 8-10, 15-16, and 22-24 at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center Little Theatre.

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night‐Time” - Marshall University’s School of Theatre presents the play based on the novel by Mark Haddon and adapted by Simon Stephens on Nov. 13 ‐16 and 20‐23 at 7:30 p.m. in the Francis-Booth Experimental Theatre in the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center. Christopher is exceptional at mathematics but he has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched, and he distrusts strangers. Christopher is determined to solve the mystery of who murdered the dog Wellington. But his detective work, forbidden by his father, takes him on a thrilling journey that upturns his world. Tickets are $20 at the door, $15 for Seniors & Faculty, $7 for children 12 and under. Marshall University students admitted free with a valid ID.

“1984” - The Theatre Department at Spring Valley High School and The Timberwolf Theatre Company present their fall production on Friday, Nov. 15 and Saturday, Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 17 at 3 p.m. Tickets will be $5 per person.

“Rock of Ages” - The Alban Arts Center will present the musical that features the big music hits and the big hair of the ‘80s at the Alban Arts Center at 65 Olde Main Plaza in St. Albans on Nov. 15-17 and 21-24.

“Aida” - West Virginia State University will present the musical by Elton John and Tim Rice at the Davis Fine Arts Theatre, WVSU. Performances are Nov. 19 - 22.

“ELF the Musical” - The Aracoma Story will present the musical based on the holiday film the last weekend of November and the first two weekends of December at the Coalfield Jamboree.

“Disney Frozen Jr.” - The Children’s Theatre of Charleston will present the musical based on the hit animated film on Dec. 12-15 at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center Little Theater. 

“Adventures in Santa Claus Land” - Astral Theatre Collective will present the play written by John Johnson at the Alban Arts Center over the first two weekends of December. A young girl and her siblings embark on the ultimate Christmas adventure, taking them to the North Pole where they will be confronted with the great question - "Do you believe?" Along the way they meet colorful characters, including Santa himself!

—————————

AUDITIONS:

“Stuart Little” - First Stage Theatre Company will offered auditions for the play based on the beloved book on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Pea Ridge United Methodist Church at 5747 East Pea Ridge Road in Huntington. The play is based on the children’s book by E.B. White. It tells the story of a talking mouse who is born to human parents in New York City. The play is adapted by Joseph Robinette for The Dramatic Publishing Company. The play will be presented at Huntington City Hall auditorium on Dec. 13, 14 and 15. Auditions are open the students from 1st grade through high school seniors. All those auditioning will read from a script provided. You may arrive for auditions anytime during the hours listed. There is no charge to be part of a First Stage show.

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” - The Paramount Players will hold auditions on Monday, Nov. 4 at 6 p.m. Auditions are open to anyone age 6 to adult. We have scripts available at the box office - please bring a $10 deposit per script, and they must be turned back in by Friday, Nov. 1. Performance dates: Dec. 19 and 20. There will be two school performances on each of those days, 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., and a 7:30 p.m. performance each night.

Final Weekend for "Frozen, Jr."

    There's a story in today's Herald-Dispatch about the final weekend for Disney's Frozen, Jr. (which you can read at this link), with interviews with the cast and director.

   (Full disclosure - I wrote the story.) Here's an excerpt:

---------------

   Live theater is all about bringing the magic of performance to the stage, but “Disney’s Frozen Jr.” has more than its share of thrills and chills.

   Based on the beloved animated film and the Broadway musical, “Frozen” tells about a storybook kingdom where the oldest daughter, Elsa, has mysterious powers of ice and snow, and when her powers run out of control, only her sister, Anna, can hope to save both Elsa and the kingdom.

   The production that wraps up this weekend at Huntington High School’s auditorium is the first show in the 30th season for First Stage Theatre, Huntington’s long-running children’s theater. Performances will be at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, and at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.

 ------------

   Pick up a copy of today's paper for the rest of the story!

Upcoming Shows

Here’s the show lineup for the week beginning Wednesday, October 16, 2019. Upcoming shows are also listed. If I've missed anything, please let me know.

__________________________

ONSTAGE THIS WEEK:

“Disney’s Frozen, Jr.” - First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the beloved animated film as part of the 30th season for Huntington’s long-running children’s theatre. Shows will be presented October 19 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 19 and 20 at 2:30 p.m. at the Huntington High School auditorium at 1 Highlander Way.

“Tales from the Campfire" - BlackRoot Theatre Kids presents this original story features kids telling and acting out classic campfire stories. (Don’t worry, it's not TOO spooky!) Shows will be presented Friday, Oct. 18 at 7:00 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 19 at 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 20 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $5. Performances will be at BlackRoot Theatre at 2700 E Dupont Avenue in Belle. (At the former Fastenal building in the Quincy Center.) 

“Mamie” - The Aracoma Story presents the play at the Coalfield Jamboree in downtown Logan on Oct. 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 20 at 3 p.m.

Murder and Merriment (Interactive Murder Dinner Parties) For a complete list of upcoming murder parties, visit www.murderandmerriment-dot-com.

_____________________________

UPCOMING LIVE THEATRE

“The Diary of Anne Frank” - GWHS Theatre of the Nevertheless will present the play on Oct. 25 and 26 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 27 at 1 p.m. at the George Washington High School Auditorium. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students. (Warning: sensitive subject matter.)

“Carrie the Musical” - The Paramount Players will present the musical based on the Stephen King book on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Paramount Arts Center in Ashland, Ky. The musical is rated “R.”

“Sweeney Todd: School Edition” - The Actor’s Guild of Parkersburg and the Guild Builders Teen Program are presenting the musical in collaboration with WVU-P. Performances will be held in the Little Theatre at WVU-P on Thursday, Oct. 31, Friday, Nov. 1, and Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 2 and Sunday, Nov. 3 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for Adults and $6 for Students. General Admission Seating.

“9 to 5 the Musical” - Southern Coalition of the Arts will present the musical at the Southern WV Community and Technical College’s Logan Campus on Nov. 8, 9, 10, 15 and 16.

“Oklahoma” - Charleston Light Opera Guild present the beloved musical on November 8-10, 15-16, and 22-24 at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center Little Theatre.

“Rock of Ages” - The Alban Arts Center will present the musical that features the big music hits and the big hair of the ‘80s at the Alban Arts Center at 65 Olde Main Plaza in St. Albans on Nov. 15-17 and 21-24.

“Aida” - West Virginia State University will present the musical by Elton John and Tim Rice at the Davis Fine Arts Theatre, WVSU. Performances are Nov. 19 - 22.

“ELF the Musical” - The Aracoma Story will present the musical based on the holiday film the last weekend of November and the first two weekends of December at the Coalfield Jamboree.

“Disney Frozen Jr.” - The Children’s Theatre of Charleston will present the musical based on the hit animated film on Dec. 12-15 at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center Little Theater. 

“Adventures in Santa Claus Land” - Astral Theatre Collective will present the play written by John Johnson at the Alban Arts Center over the first two weekends of December. A young girl and her siblings embark on the ultimate Christmas adventure, taking them to the North Pole where they will be confronted with the great question - "Do you believe?" Along the way they meet colorful characters, including Santa himself!

Interview with The Queen from "Frozen Jr."

   The musical Disney’s Frozen Jr. is being staged by First Stage Theatre at Huntington High School’s auditorium this afternoon - but if you missed it, the good news is, there are three more shows next weekend!

   The musical is based on the beloved animated film and the Broadway musical, and the show has been getting rave reviews!

   We’ve been sharing interviews with the young cast, and up next is the lovely Ella Adkins, who plays the part of the Queen - the mother of Elsa and Anna:

Q: Tell us about Frozen Jr - is it different from the animated film?

Ella: Frozen Jr is very different compared to the animated film. Some of the fun supporting characters you don't see often in the movie are given greater roles in the play, which connects all of the characters together. This version of Frozen is much more fast-paced and every aspect and every moment of the show is an important part of the plot.

Q: Why did you want to be part of this show?

Ella: I wanted to be a part of this show because it was brand new and unique compared to the other shows I have been a part of.

Q: What's the most challenging thing about the show?

Ella: I believe the most challenging thing about this show is character development. I play the Queen, and in the show, she is given a larger role than the movie. So I was responsible for filling the holes about her character that Disney didn’t already provide. Since many other characters were in the same situation, we were given the opportunity to be more creative with this show.

Q: If a kid is thinking about being in a future show, what advice would you give them?

Ella: I would say to give it a try. It doesn’t matter if you think you’re a bad singer, dancer or actor, or if you’re too introverted or afraid to be on stage. Many of my castmates and I used to be antisocial, but performing truly helps break out of your shell. Theater has helped me grow in every area of my life including public speaking, confidence, and teamwork. I have even made some of my closest friends from doing shows. My advice is that if you want to be in a show, go for it and don't let fear hold you back!!

   Thanks, Ella!

“Disney’s Frozen, Jr.” - First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the beloved animated film as part of the 30th season for Huntington’s long-running children’s theatre. Shows will be presented Oct. 13, 19 and 20 at 2:30 p.m. and Oct. 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Huntington High School auditorium at 1 Highlander Way.

Interview with "Elsa" from "Frozen Jr."

   The musical Disney’s Frozen Jr. will be presented at Huntington High School this weekend and next weekend. 

   It’s based on the story of two loving sisters - one who develops an amazing power that threatens her kingdom, and the other who fights to save her sister.

   We have several interviews with the young cast to share, and up next is the beautiful and talented Sophie Eastone, who plays the part of Elsa, the Queen whose powers over ice and snow threaten to run out of control:

Q: Tell us about Frozen Jr - is it different from the animated film?

Sophie: Frozen Jr is very similar to the animated film - but with a few surprises! While having the same story line as the movie, there are extra songs from the Broadway musical. Frozen Jr goes more in depth with Elsa’s internal emotions and the true love story between two sisters. Your favorite classic songs from the movie have added solos to let more people shine. Some of the songs have more accommodating vocal ranges easier for others to sing.  

Q: Why did you want to be part of this show?

Sophie: I’ve loved Frozen since I was little. I knew there was THE song in this show. I walked into the auditions wanting to be Elsa. However, I knew even if I didn’t get that part in the show, being with my First Stage family would make the show as magical as the last and I wanted to be a part of bringing this story to life in any way that I could. 

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Sophie: Elsa is scared and closed-off from the rest of the world. Elsa is dreading coronation day because of her fear that everyone will see that she has powers. As the show progresses, she learns that there is no reason to conceal and not feel. She realizes that she can finally let it go and be who she is really meant to be.  

Q: What's the most challenging this about the show?

Sophie: For me, the most challenging part about this show is the scene where I perform “Let It Go.” I remember seeing the movie quite a few times when I was younger; I was mesmerized by it all. From the building of the castle to Elsa switching her dress in an instant, it was magical. I want to give that same magic now to the little kids in the audience and give them a mesmerizing moment too.  

Q: If a kid is thinking about being in a future show, what advice would you give them?

Sophie: DO IT. I don’t know where or what I would be doing if I wasn’t in theatre. Theatre has changed my life and helped me find something that I truly love. If you don’t make a show your first time around, try again. What do you have to lose? It is something you don’t want to miss out on. The atmosphere is welcoming and supportive. Every experience I've had has been a blast. From ensemble to lead - no matter where you’re placed, I promise you’ll leave the last show in tears not ready to say goodbye to your new family and looking forward to more shows!

Q: Why would you recommend this show to our readers? 

Sophie: I would recommend this show to readers because the set, the effects, and the music are bigger and brighter than ever before. With our cast of 72 we have been able to do many things. It’s a show you don’t want to miss! 

   Thanks, Sophie!

“Disney’s Frozen, Jr.” - First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the beloved animated film as part of the 30th season for Huntington’s long-running children’s theatre. Shows will be presented Oct. 12 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 13, 19 and 20 at 2:30 p.m. at the Huntington High School auditorium at 1 Highlander Way.

Interview with "Hans" from "Frozen, Jr."

   The musical Disney’s Frozen Jr. will be presented at Huntington High School beginning this Friday. It’s based on the story of two loving sisters - one who develops a terrible power that threatens her kingdom, and the other who will fight against all odds to save her sister.

   We have several interviews with the young cast to share, and up first is a veteran of local theatre, the incredibly talented Armâan Karimpour, who plays the part of Hans, the prince who tries to win Anna’s heart:

Q: Tell us about Frozen Jr - is it different from the animated film?

Armâan: I cannot tell you if Frozen Jr is different from the animated film because I have not seen the movie myself! Haha!! Frozen Jr, at its roots, is the story of the relationship between two princesses. Both sisters are just trying to support each other. However, Elsa, the older sister, and her fear of her magical ice abilities causes her to separate herself from Anna, the younger sister, at a very early age. Thus, when Elsa becomes the queen and accidentally sets off an eternal winter, Anna travels through mountains, snow, a couple of guys, a reindeer, and a talking snowman in her search for not only Elsa, but “true love.”

Q: Why did you want to be part of this show?

Armâan: I honestly only did not want to be in this show when I heard First Stage was doing it because I never got into the Frozen hype from the movie and it never struck my fancy being a “Jr.” show. However, knowing the directorial team’s commitment to putting on a strong show along with encouragement from my First Stage family really helped push me to audition, and I am extremely glad that I auditioned and got accepted into the cast!

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Armâan: Hans is a conniving, manipulative, YET charming prince. He is the youngest of 13 sons, and he is willing to do anything to become a king. He uses Anna’s ignorance and desire to be loved to his advantage and eventually tries to use murder as a way to reach the throne.

Q: What's the most challenging this about the show?

Armâan: The most challenging aspect of the show is definitely juggling 72 cast members on and off stage and making sure I portray all the different personalities of Hans from his charming facade to his malicious intents.

Q: If a kid is thinking about being in a future show, what advice would you give them?

Armâan: My advice to any child who is thinking about auditioning for a future show at First Stage and hasn’t before is to go for it! The worst thing that can happen is either getting rejected or ending up not liking being in a show. Either way, they are still able to step back and learn from that experience. Plus, if they get in and enjoy what they are doing, then it becomes an extremely rewarding and fun affair. Lastly, my time at First Stage has opened up many doors in my life, and I think it can do the same for others. With that being said, go audition!

Q: Why would you recommend this show to our readers?

Armâan: I would recommend this show to your readers because there is a very strong cast, with many veteran actors / actresses (even though everyone in the cast is 18 or younger)! I also think the different staging effects and the new songs from the Broadway musical will help people who already know Frozen to gain a new perspective on it.

   Thanks, Armâan!

“Disney’s Frozen, Jr.” - First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical based on the beloved animated film as part of the 30th season for Huntington’s long-running children’s theatre. Shows will be presented Oct. 11, 12 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 13, 19 and 20 at 2:30 p.m. at the Huntington High School auditorium at 1 Highlander Way.