Beat the heat this summer and come see the coolest show in town! Ruston Community Theatre is pleased to produce Frozen JR, directed by Steele Moegle, and sponsored by Jonesboro State Bank Pledge10 Grant. Based on the Disney film written by Jennifer Lee and directed by Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee, Frozen JR. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. It includes the songs from the film, with music and lyrics written by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, and includes some new songs written for the Broadway production. The original Broadway production of Frozen was directed by Michael Grandage and produced by Disney Theatrical Productions. Frozen JR. is set in the fictitious kingdom of Arendelle and follows the story of love and acceptance between two princess sisters, Anna and Elsa. The culture of Arendelle is heavily influenced by the Sámi, a nomadic people who lived in Northern Scandinavia for thousands of years. “An interesting facet of Frozen Jr. is the incorporation of the Sámi language,” director Steele Moegle points out. “Today, three of the Sámi languages face the brink of extinction. Being able to introduce the culture and the language has been an illuminating educational experience for all involved. This talented cast has shown themselves willing to dive into this information with gusto!”
Much of the plot focuses on Elsa’s unique power to control ice and snow, a peculiarity which she has kept concealed and resulted in estrangement from her sister Anna. To depict the magic in this show, RCT is using animated projections from Broadway Media Productions (BMD). “We are grateful for their help and advice through this project.” Steele says. “David Kaul of Grambling State University is the set and lighting designer; we are also thrilled about implementing his thought-provoking set.” The magic of this show was so crucial that special rehearsals were scheduled just to perfect those magical moments. The audience will surely be immersed and enjoy watching the set come to life!
A show of this complexity certainly requires a team of dedicated and talented individuals. “I have such an impressive crew. They elevate the show to a high theatrical caliber,” Steele adds. “Gretchen Jones of LG Dance, our choreographer, has creative ideas that bolster the story by taking it to the next artistic level.” The show has two backstage managers, who are actually RCT youth musical alumni: Rebekah Heiden and Alma Moegle. Steele states, “I love that they have come full circle to help the next summer youth musical strive for success.” Steele has another family member on the crew as well, her husband Forrest Moegle who has been eager to learn about the aspects of Property Master. And lastly, costumer Karen Pittman has pulled together some amazing costumes that will delight the audience. She continues to be a wonderful resource for RCT shows. Steele would also like to thank the parents who have been supportive and helpful throughout this process. “It is an intensive process as we get to production dates, and I appreciate their dedication!”
Frozen JR. was originally scheduled for the Summer of 2020, but the pandemic delayed it for two years. RCT appreciates the support and patience of the show’s sponsor, Jonesboro State Bank - Pledge 10 Grant, as it was postponed until after the worst of the pandemic had passed. Frozen JR. will run Wednesday, June 15, through Saturday, June 18, at The Dixie Center for the Arts in Ruston. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for children/students. Seating is reserved and tickets can be purchased at www.rctruston.org. Call the box office if you need help buying tickets: (318) 595-0872.
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By Johnathan Baines