Warm your heart with ‘Frozen Jr.’ performances at LBW Dixon Center
Published 1:00 pm Thursday, July 3, 2025
- Christian Pate, left, teaches choreography for “Let It Go” to cast members Emory Gibson, Aria Jackson, Greysen Hancock, Alexis Kelley, and Kaylee Sport. Frozen Jr. will be held on Saturday, July 12, at 2 and 6 p.m. (PHOTO PROVIDED)
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Students from Covington County Schools’ Collaborative Arts program will join the LBW Community College Drama Department to present two performances of Disney’s Frozen Jr. on Saturday, July 12, at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
This 60-minute musical, adapted specifically for middle school performers, is based on Disney’s 2013 hit film and the 2018 Broadway production. Directed by Jennifer Withrow of Pleasant Home School and Cavelle Jones of LBWCC, the cast features about 30 students ranging from the third to twelfth grade, supported by a backstage crew of 15 high school and college students. The two shows will be held in the Martha and Solon Dixon Center for the Performing Arts on the LBW campus in Andalusia.
“Kids on Stage is a joint effort between Covington County Schools and the LBWCC Drama Department. We started this project three years ago to meet our students’ growing interest in the arts. This year’s camp will culminate in two performances of a fantastic musical designed for younger audiences. It’s another great opportunity for students to grow their theatrical and musical abilities,” Withrow said.
Audiences can expect a magical and heartwarming adaptation of the highest-grossing animated film of all time. Beloved characters Anna and Elsa, along with their companions, embark on an ice-filled adventure of self-discovery, friendship, and true love.
The musical features popular songs from the original film including “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?,” “Love Is an Open Door,” and the iconic “Let It Go” as well as additional songs from the Broadway adaptation.
Jones noted the program also benefits college students behind the scenes.
“Kids on Stage gives LBW theater students hands-on experience in production by serving as crew and mentors to elementary students. It’s a chance for everyone involved to build confidence, creativity, and connection. They’ll find their voices on stage and their courage off it,” Jones said.
The CCS Collaborative Arts program was created eight years ago by a small group of faculty members committed to expanding artistic opportunities for students across the district. Today, the program offers instruction in art, music, theater, vocals, and dance with the annual musical serving as a capstone showcase of student talent.
Straughn High School 2025 alumnus Christian Pate will serve as choreographer.
“This production is definitely a challenge due to the short time we have to pull it together, but that makes it even more exciting. I have no doubt these students will wow you. You’re going to want to see this,” Pate said.
Frozen Jr. is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). Founded in 1952 by composer Frank Loesser and orchestrator Don Walker, MTI is one of the world’s leading theatrical licensing agencies, working with over 70,000 theaters in more than 60 countries.
Tickets are $10 and available only at the door for one hour before each performance. Doors will open at 1:30 and 5:30 p.m.