Frozen star returns to surprise local cast at The Brindley

West End star Oliver Ormson, who originated the role of Prince Hans in Disney’s Frozen at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane, returned to his old stomping ground this week to surprise the cast of Centenary Theatre Company as they rehearsed for their upcoming production.

Ormson watched rehearsals, offered encouragement, and spoke with the cast to provide advice. About his visit Ormston said: “Frozen is, of course, very special to me, and I wish everyone at Centenary the best of luck. I actually performed West Side Story with Centenary Theatre Company at The Brindley when I was starting out. So coming back to visit everyone feels very nostalgic — a full-circle moment.”
For Josh Leech, the actor stepping into the boots of Prince Hans in Centenary’s production, the visit was particularly useful as Ormston provided some tips.
“We talked about how he played Hans and how he found the role. Oliver reminded me to just have fun with it. He also told me to remember: ‘If I get booed at the end, just think you’ve played the character right!'”

The company has over 90 people working on Frozen, including cast, child performers and behind-the-scenes crew, with the cast coming from all over Cheshire, making it one of the largest productions Centenary has ever undertaken.
The production features digital screens, atmospheric ice blasts and other special effects designed to recreate the frozen world of Arendelle on The Brindley stage – while staying true to the beloved film.

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