The actor chatted to us about bringing Frozen the Musical to the West End and playing Prince Hans.
Hi Oliver – how are you feeling about finally getting to bring Frozen to London audiences? I feel so excited to be finally opening Frozen the musical at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. It’s been a long road to get here, but now we’re on the home straight and we can’t wait to share the show with you all.
How have preparations been going for the show so far? The preparations have been full out – in a good way! Long days in the rehearsal rooms for over four weeks learning all the material. Then adding the finishing touches at the theatre for the 3 weeks leading up to our first performance. It’s been so much fun to be a part of such a wonderful rehearsal process.
What was it about Frozen that made you want to be part of the production? Frozen is such a huge show with a hugely talented creative team attached to the production. So having the chance to work with the likes of Michael Grandage, Rob Ashford and many more was an incredible attractive opportunity for me. Also being part of a this show, which means so much to so many people worldwide, was a big pull for me. Plus my nieces and nephews are very excited to see their ‘Uncle Ol’ in Frozen the musical!
Hans is an interesting character in many respects – how do you see him? He is very interesting! So we know he’s a Prince who is 13th in line to the throne in his own kingdom. He has no chance of being at the throne unless he marries into it – and That’s his main goal in the show and he’ll doing anything to achieve it. Even if his actions are at the expense of somebody else.
How does it feel to be part of the first production to reopen the Theatre Royal Drury Lane? I feel incredibly lucky to be a part of the first production at the newly refurbished Theatre Royal Drury Lane. It’s a beautiful building full of history and the refurbishment has elevated it to a new level. I can’t wait for the audience to experience Frozen the musical in the most visually stunning theatre in London.
Of course the film is hugely popular – how would you say the musical takes it to another level? The musical version of Frozen really explores the characters in Arendelle with greater depth taking their story arcs much further. With Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez writing new songs for the stage show, there is more opportunity for us to explore the characters you know and love from the film. Also, with Rob Ashford’s amazing choreography with Christopher Oram’s immaculate costume and set design, you really are transported to Arendelle and the world of Frozen.
If people haven’t booked tickets yet – why should they? There’s is something for everyone in this show, from mind blowing special effects to toe tapping musical numbers. All taking place in the best theatre in London – Theatre Royal Drury Lane. You don’t want to miss out!
By Emma Clarendon
Frozen the Musical will begin performances at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane from the 27th August and is currently booking until the 26th June 2022. You can boo your tickets here.