Songs, storytelling and a cast of local young performers brought the kingdom of Arendelle to life as Donna’s Studio of Dance & Theatre concluded its production of Disney’s Frozen Jr. on Sunday, June 7, at Pahrump Valley High School.
Based on the beloved Disney film, the stage adaptation follows sisters Anna and Elsa as they navigate loss, isolation and ultimately rediscover the strength of family and connection. Throughout its run, the production combined memorable musical performances, energetic choreography and character-driven moments that allowed each cast member an opportunity to help tell the story.
At the center of the production were Zoe Durst as Anna and Molly Stoddard as Elsa.
As Anna, Durst led audiences through the character’s hopeful, determined and adventurous journey. From childhood through adulthood, Anna’s optimism remained a driving force of the story as she searched not only to reconnect with her sister but to save their kingdom. Durst guided audiences through many of the show’s most recognizable moments, including “For the First Time in Forever,” “Love is an Open Door,” and the emotional reprise later in the production.
Opposite her, Stoddard portrayed Elsa, the reserved but deeply caring older sister whose struggle to control her magical powers becomes the heart of the story. Her performance built toward one of the production’s signature moments with “Let It Go,” one of the most anticipated musical numbers of the show.
Helping establish the emotional foundation of the sisters’ relationship were Avery Schumacher as Young Anna and Wonder Warren as Young Elsa. Their performances during opening numbers including “A Little Bit of You” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” introduced audiences to the sisters’ childhood bond and created the emotional groundwork that carried throughout the production.
Supporting roles added depth and personality across the kingdom of Arendelle.
Evalyna Sage took on multiple roles throughout the production, appearing as King Agnarr, a member of the Summer Chorus and among the Hidden Folk. Lucy Weich portrayed Queen Iduna while also appearing in ensemble moments with the Summer Chorus, helping shape the royal family dynamic that influences the sisters throughout the story.
Teagan Fanning appeared as Pabbie, the mystical leader connected to the Hidden Folk, while also participating as part of Oaken’s family. Charlotte Hill portrayed Bulda, bringing another recognizable character from the story to the stage.
Livy Lewis appeared as the Bishop during the coronation sequence, helping establish one of the story’s major turning points.
The production also featured a creative twist in casting with Sadie Street portraying Kristoff and Daisy Saldaña bringing Sven to life. Together, the pair guided audiences through humorous and heartfelt moments, including “Reindeer(s) Are Better Than People” and appearances throughout Anna’s journey into the mountains.
Izzy Schuerger portrayed Hans, delivering one of the production’s most memorable character turns while sharing several major moments with Anna, including “Love is an Open Door.”
Mia Schadt appeared as Weselton, adding comedic energy to the production.
Adelena Bell took on the role of Olaf, one of the audience favorites throughout the show. Olaf’s numbers, including “In Summer,” brought humor and lighter moments to the performance.
Ciara Conlan portrayed Oaken and led scenes during the musical number “Hygge,” supported by ensemble members portraying Oaken’s family.
Rounding out the cast were Alivia Kenevan, Millie Moss, Ariella Christian, Alaina Robinson and Will Lamm, who filled numerous ensemble roles throughout the show as castle staff, townspeople and members of Oaken’s family. Their participation helped create the large ensemble moments that gave energy and movement to musical numbers and transitions throughout the production.
The show featured an extensive musical lineup including “Let the Sun Shine On,” “First Joik,” “Dangerous to Dream,” “In Summer,” “Fixer Upper,” “Colder by the Minute,” and a two-part finale that brought the entire cast together one last time.
Guiding the production was Director Kittra Warren, supported by Co-Director Alisa Goodman and Choreographer Lisa Paulson. Together, the creative team built a production that balanced theatrical performance, musical storytelling and dance while giving each performer an opportunity to contribute to the world of Arendelle.
Behind the scenes, the production relied on a dedicated technical crew including Sound Engineer Adam Warren, Assistant Sound Engineers Darius Mann and Yume Gianattassio, Technical Consultant and Lighting Designer Terri Morse, Head Costumer Pamela “Gaga” Coomer and Crew Assistant Greg Hartle.
From the opening notes to the final bows, Disney’s Frozen Jr. offered audiences an opportunity to experience a familiar story through the work of local young performers, closing out its run with a celebration of creativity, teamwork and community theatre in Pahrump.
*Photos are available at pvcnphotos.com.
