by: Zon Resueno

SANFORD – It is a production warm enough to thaw any frozen hear. Lee County High School presents Frozen Jr, The Musical, led by student-director Kailey Edwards. With elaborate sets, stunning costumes, a creatively driven director, and talented young actors, the stage is set for a captivating four-day-long show that’s sure to leave you with chills. 

According to Kailey Edwards, nostalgia served as the guiding star when choosing “Frozen” for this year’s school production. Drawing from a past experience in seventh grade, the director’s genuine love for the story and an unfulfilled desire to play Elsa became the driving force behind this choice.

LCHS students Caitlin Musslewhite and Sophie Cooper take on the sisterly bond, playing the lead roles of Elsa and Anna. Edwards said that Caitlin’s portrayal of Elsa was envisioned to exude independence, while Sophie effortlessly embodied the warmth and spirit of Anna.

For Edwards, the journey into the world of theater and directing began in the fifth grade with a standout performance in School House Rock, marking the inception of her passion for theater. The following year, a transformative experience unfolded during The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, where she found inspiration in Sydney Spalding, a figure she continues to admire. This encounter laid the foundation for Kailey’s fervent desire to pursue directing.

Working alongside a student director has presented both challenges and triumphs, with the initial hurdle being the selection process and later managing replacements for those who decided to step away. This isn’t unfamiliar territory for Alexa Hughes, LCHS Music Teacher and Kailey’s mentor during “Frozen”, having collaborated with student directors several times before.

The ongoing challenge involves ensuring that the student director’s ideas align with the overall goals and vision of the production. Through open communication and compromise, Hughes ensures that creative solutions are found to bring these ideas within reach. 

Empowering student directors is a core philosophy for LCHS Theatre Teacher and Department Head, Ron Coley,  emphasizing their authority in making creative decisions for their productions. While he provides guidance and steps in when necessary, the goal is to let students take charge and make decisions independently.

As the enchanting world of “Frozen Jr.: The Musical” unfolds at Lee County High School, it’s the culmination of countless hours of hard work, creative passion, and a true team effort.

Edwards hopes the audience will not only be entertained but will also carry away the timeless message that “Love is worth melting for,” encapsulating the heartwarming theme of “Frozen” and the collective effort that went into this extraordinary rendition.

Frozen makes its LCHS debut Thursday night, with performances Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. with a matinee Sunday afternoon.