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| Jolee Casey and Ayden Armbrust photo courtesy East Valley Children's Theatre |
By Gil Benbrook
For many young performers, stepping into a Disney role is a dream come true, but for the two talented teenagers bringing Anna and Elsa to life in Disney’s Frozen JR at East Valley Children's Theatre it is something even more special. The beloved tale of sisterhood, courage, and discovering one’s true self has captured the imaginations of audiences for over a decade, and now these rising stars are taking on the challenge of portraying its iconic heroines onstage.
Jolee Casey and Ayden Armbrust take on the beloved characters of Elsa and Anna, respectively. With big songs, big emotions, and the responsibility of honoring characters adored by millions, this production marks a major milestone in their young careers.
As opening night approaches and the cast prepares to bring the magic of Frozen JR to life, the two young leads sat down with to answer some questions about their characters, their favorite moments, and what they hope audiences of all ages take away from this beloved story.
Jolee Casey (Elsa)
Both Anna and Elsa have such strong emotional journeys. What part of your character’s story do you connect with the most, and how has that influenced your performance?
"When it comes to Elsa's story/journey, I heavily connect with her desire to be her authentic self. This similarity between us has influenced my performance by allowing me to have a deeper connection with her as a character in helping me portray her journey to finding her true self. "
The relationship between the sisters is the heart of the show. How did the two of you work together to build that bond onstage?
"Ayden and I have known each other long before Frozen started. Ever since casting, we have definitely grown closer over the past couple of weeks, which has allowed us to continue to build our chemistry on stage. Honestly, I could not think of a better Anna to my Elsa. "
The score includes some powerhouse songs like “Let It Go” and “For the First Time in Forever.” What has been the most exciting or challenging musical moment for you?
" "Let It Go" is a beast of a song and has come with its challenges. The song is 100 percent mind over matter. Getting in my own head about the song sounding "perfect" has been my biggest challenge as a performer. The entirety of the song is exciting. The dancing, the lights, the fog, everything. There isn't a single dull moment. "
Frozen JR has a lot of magical elements. What stage moment or special effect are you most excited for the audience to experience?
"By far the most magical moment in the show is Elsa's quick change during "Let It Go". I am so excited to see the audience's reaction. "
What do you hope audience members take away from seeing Frozen, JR at EVCT?
"As a performer I hope the audience leaves the theater really feeling that Disney magic. I also hope they see how much work has been put into this show. Not just by the amazing cast but also our director, costumer, choreographer, stage managers, make-up designer and technical team. Without them, this show wouldn't be possible. "
Ayden Armbrust (Anna)
Both Anna and Elsa have such strong emotional journeys. What part of your character’s story do you connect with the most, and how has that influenced your performance?
"When Anna begins her journey towards finding her sister Elsa, I believe that is the strongest connection I have with Anna, her determination. In the show, she does not let anybody get in the way of finding her sister. The determination she has which is made out of love and hope in which she has for her sister is the same determination and love that I have towards my brother and I feel that is strong."
The relationship between the sisters is the heart of the show. How did the two of you work together to build that bond onstage?
"Honestly, Jolee and I hung out with each other almost every second of every rehearsal. I did know Jolee beforehand but this show has truly given us a stronger connection with each other. It definitely makes a difference to have someone you love play your big sister and I couldn’t ask for any other than Jolee."
The score includes some powerhouse songs like “Let It Go” and “For the First Time in Forever.” What has been the most exciting or challenging musical moment for you?
"I believe that “For the First Time in Forever” has its little belting moments and I did struggle with that at first, but it is definitely one of my favorites. One of the things that made me struggle was worrying if I could even hit those notes but what really ever holds you back is yourself. If you open up and don’t care what comes out in the moment nothing can stop you. The main thing I know is that this is what makes me happy and it’s all for fun!"
Frozen JR has a lot of magical elements. What stage moment or special effect are you most excited for the audience to experience?
"One of the most magical moments that I enjoy is towards the end of the show when Anna freezes and every moment after. As Anna thaws and true love saves the day I love to see the way EVCT makes the ice around us thaw. Even bows are magical, even though they may not have any special effects hearing the amazing audience cheering, laughing, tearing up is the most magical moments for fellow actors!"
What do you hope audience members take away from seeing Frozen, JR at EVCT?
"I hope that the audience feels inspired. Knowing that kids are doing a show like Frozen Jr. shocks me! So, I hope that kids or even adults would see someone on stage that really gives them that spark. Not only do I wish it gives kids who want to be an actor inspiration, but I also want people who are into doing the backstage magic of the show to be inspired too because everyone who helps is truly so so so amazing and couldn’t be done without them."
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