For the first time in forever, Disney’s “Frozen: The Broadway Musical” is coming to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Lied Center for Performing Arts.
Based on the Academy Award-winning animated film, the production will run Aug. 15–24, with 13 performances. “Frozen” is being presented through a partnership between the Lied Center, the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts’ Nebraska Repertory Theatre, Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera and Kansas City’s Starlight Theatre. It marks the Lied’s first time serving as lead producer on a large-scale, Broadway-style musical.
“This is a big step for us,” said Bill Stephan, executive director and chief artistic officer of the Lied Center. “We’ve gone from being a presenter to taking on full producing responsibilities—hiring Equity actors, managing logistics, coordinating every creative and technical element. It’s a whole different level.”
Serving as a producer also gives the Lied Center the ability to bring major titles to Lincoln outside the constraints of a national tour.
“It’s such a wonderful show that we didn’t want the university and greater Lincoln communities to miss out on the experience,” Stephan said. “It felt like something we just had to do.”
Set in the mountainous kingdom of Arendelle, princesses Anna and Elsa grow up sheltered in their castle, isolated from the world and increasingly distant from each other. When Elsa is crowned queen, magical powers she’s worked to conceal take control, and she flees into the mountains.
As a fierce winter storm descends on Arendelle, Anna sets off on a journey to find Elsa and bring her home. Along the way, she joins forces with Kristoff, a hardworking ice harvester; Sven, Kristoff’s loyal reindeer; and Olaf, a happy-go-lucky snowman.
The musical features all of the beloved songs from the animated film by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, along with new music written specifically for the stage. While based on an animated feature, the production resonates with audiences of all ages.
“As an adult who saw it on Broadway, I can tell you — it’s for everyone,” Stephan said. “There’s powerful music, stunning visuals, and a heartfelt story about sisterhood and love.”
In celebration of the production, the Lied Center is offering reduced ticket prices to all faculty and staff. Best available tickets for all performances are available for $49 when using the code “UNL.” Half-price options are also available for students and youth.
“Where else can you see a Broadway-level production with prices like this?” Stephan said. “Don’t let cost be the reason you miss out.”
Learn more about the production or purchase tickets at liedcenter.org.
