Review – Frozen at Paper Mill Playhouse
Written by cupor1 on December 22, 2025
By Joely DeMonte
MILLBURN, NJ. Hazel Vogel (Young Elsa) and Anjali Roa (Young Anna). Photograph by Evan Zimmerman.
Frozen invites audiences back to Arendelle with warmth, spectacle, and a strong sense of nostalgia. Extendxtended through Sunday, January 11, 2026, the production has clearly struck a chord, offering a crowd-pleasing night of family theater during the winter season.
Directed with care by Paige Price, the story remains centered on the powerful bond between sisters. Mary Kate Morrissey delivers a vocally impressive and emotionally restrained Elsa, while Samantha Williams brings humor, optimism, and heart to Anna. Together, they ground the show in genuine emotional connection.
One of the production’s most charming highlights comes from Anjali Roa and Hazel Vogel as Young Anna and Young Elsa. Their scenes are joyful and sincere, adding emotional depth and a welcome sense of nostalgia that strengthens the foundation of the story.
MILLBURN, NJ. Samantha Williams (Anna) and Sam Gravitte (Hans). Photograph by Evan Zimmerman.
Visually, the show makes smart use of projections, a tool that is becoming increasingly common in live theater. Rather than overwhelming the stage, the projections enhance the world of Arendelle and work effectively alongside the physical scenery. This thoughtful integration helps support the magic without distracting from the performers.
The supporting cast adds humor and warmth throughout, particularly Todd Buonopane as Olaf and Thomas Whitcomb as Sven, whose expressive physical performance continues to delight audiences. Musically, the production delivers beloved favorites from the film, including “Let It Go” and “Love Is an Open Door,” while also introducing new material that expands the story for longtime fans. Songs like “What Do You Know About Love,” “Monster,” and “Hygge” offer fresh energy for those more familiar with the movie than the stage adaptation
MILLBURN, NJ. Nathan Lucrezio (King Agnarrr), Albert Jennings (Pabbie) holding Anjali Roa (Young Anna), and Badia Farha (Bulda). Photograph by Evan Zimmerman.
Frozen at Paper Mill Playhouse is an enjoyable and heartfelt theatrical experience. With its extended run and family-friendly appeal, it offers a comforting return to a beloved story and a warm escape from the winter chill.
For tickets or more information, visit https://papermill.org/frozen/.
