'Disney on Ice: Frozen' brings Elsa, Anna to life at McKenzie Arena

Do you want to build a snowman?

It's going to snow inside McKenzie Arena this weekend when "Disney on Ice: Frozen" brings the beloved story of sisters Anna and Elsa to life on ice during seven performances today through Sunday, Nov. 9-12.

This ice show presented by Feld Entertainment is different from others that have skated through town in that it tells one complete story instead of being comprised of a variety of small vignettes.

"This is the only Feld show where the entire production is focused on one storyline," says William Brandon, one of the 39 skaters in the cast. "We have opening and closing numbers with some surprise Disney guests, but the entire show is 'Frozen.'"

Anna and Elsa stand in front of a 1,200-pound bridge, the largest prop in the ice show.

Anna sings and dances with Olaf.

Brandon is an Atlanta resident whose skating career is quite different from the norm - he didn't start skating until he was 20.

"I've always admired the sport. I thought it was incredibly beautiful to watch. I always wanted to learn but never had the follow-through until I was 20."

That was seven years ago, and now he's skating professionally.

"I really, really enjoy being able to perform for an audience. In our two weeks' rehearsal, we learn the show and pretend there is an audience to interact with. To actually put our show in an auditorium that's filled makes my job so much more fun."

As it is for the audience, which Brandon says becomes immersed in the skating extravaganza's story.

"Our audiences love the story of Elsa and Anna, and you can always hear them when those characters enter. It's still a very beloved storyline."

The skater says the story is told through the acting of its cast - but their stage presence is enhanced by elaborate costuming and sets. It takes a lot of work behind the scenes to make Arendelle a snowy winter wonderland.

There are more than 200 props in the show, painted in 58 colors, and 20 snow machines. At its tallest point, the set reaches 36 feet in height.

When Elsa lets it go and builds her snow palace, sparkling pyrotechnics will enhance those icy blasts.

These dazzling special effects, beautiful costuming and skating prowess of the cast will combine for an unforgettable ice show.

"Every ice show is uniquely defined by the cast that comprises it. I can tell you we have an incredible group of people in this cast," says Brandon. "It shows on the ice that we love what we do. We have a fun time on our end, and we want you to have just as much fun."

Contact Susan Pierce at spierce@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6284.