Music and magic at ‘Frozen in Concert’
Frozen” fans, here’s a new way to enjoy the music and magic of your beloved Disney animation: a film concert.
“It’s like going to a cinema but with added layers—there will be a big screen showing the full film, and there will be an orchestra playing the music live and in sync with the movie,” said Mikhail Schemm, founder and managing director of Film Concerts PH.
At “Frozen in Concert,” happening Nov. 16 and Nov. 17 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati, the Filharmonika Orchestra will be led by Mhaze Lim as they play composer Christophe Beck’s Grammy-nominated score and the songs written by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez.
Schemm added, “Since the songs are so popular, we will have vocalists join the show to sing some of the more iconic songs. We expect lots of singing along from the crowd!”
Joining the cast of “Frozen in Concert” are theater stars Reb Atadero (“Little Shop of Horrors,” “Rent”) as Hans, Laurence Mossman (“Miss Saigon” Asia and Australia tour) as Olaf, Joreen Bautista (“Miss Saigon” UK and Ireland tour; Tiktok’s Filipina Disney Princess) as Anna and Gab Pangilinan (“Ang Huling El Bimbo,” “Mula Sa Buwan”) as Elsa. The show is licensed by Disney Concerts.
Film Concerts PH, which was established this year, has partnered with music director and conductor Gerard Salonga and Filharmonika Orchestra, which was founded by Salonga in 2005 and returned this year after an almost decadelong hiatus. It is Film Concerts PH’s desire to “bring new formats of entertainment that build on existing popular culture but give it a new dimension.”
In September, they staged “Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert” at The Theatre at Solaire. The film concert also featured music from The Filharmonika Orchestra, conducted by Salonga. Schemm said, “People came out in full force, dressed in their costumes with lightsabers and more. The crowd was cheering before, during and of course, after the performance.”
This time, at the family-friendly “Frozen in Concert,” they’re expecting younger kids to be in the audience. It would be a great way for them to experience orchestra music for the first time.
Everyone is welcome to attend dressed as their favorite “Frozen” characters.
Reb Atadero is Hans
How do you feel about being part of the “Frozen in Concert”?
This may sound like a cliché, but literally every performer I know has “voice a Disney character” on their bucket list. Getting the chance to do that with a live orchestra is surreal to me. I’m immensely honored to be a part of “Frozen in Concert.” It’s one of the most beloved Disney movies in the last 20 years and I get to relive it with my fellow Filipinos. It still hasn’t sunk in, to be honest.
What do you like about your character?
Anyone who’s ever played a villain will tell you how much fun and fulfilling those roles are. I remember watching Frozen for the first time and I didn’t know what to make of Hans. He’s devilishly charming and almost too-good-to-be-true. Plus, he lowkey has the best song with Anna.
Which song are you most excited to perform and why?
“Love Is An Open Door”! I only get to sing one song as Hans but what a song. I can’t wait to finish all the sandwiches!
Laurence Mossman is Olaf
How do you feel about being part of the “Frozen in Concert”?
I’m thrilled as it allows us to share the magic of this beloved Disney movie with Filipino audiences. Collaborating with the Filharmonika Orchestra brings an epic, immersive experience that will enhance the storytelling for both kids and adults. It’s an incredible opportunity to celebrate the joy and wonder of Frozen.
What do you like about your character?
I love Olaf for his fierce loyalty and optimism. His childlike wonder and curiosity remind us to cherish friendships and find joy in every moment. It’s that innocence and heart that make him such an endearing character.
Which song are you most excited to perform and why?
Of course I’m going to say Olaf’s song “In Summer.” It’s such a fun and playful song. I hope the audience joins in and sings along. It’s a perfect moment to connect with everyone and celebrate the magic of the film! I’m also excited to hear Reb, Gab and Joreen bring their songs to life with their exceptional, world-class voices!
Joreen Bautista is Anna
How do you feel about being part of the “Frozen in Concert”?
I cannot wait to be in a room with that orchestra playing music from my childhood and me being part of the music itself.
What do you like about your character?
I love how Princess Anna feels so much of a free spirit. She is bubbly and energetic just like I am! My favorite part is she is real and courageous—I wish I were as raw and authentic as she always is!
Which song are you most excited to perform and why?
I am so excited about “For the First Time In Forever”! It’s such a fun song to perform, I am also sure the orchestra will be amazing!
“Frozen in Concert” tickets are available at ticketworld.com.ph.