Salem High Selected As First NH School To Stage 'Frozen' Musical

SALEM, NH — Salem High School learned on Friday that it has been selected as the first school in New Hampshire to stage the musical "Frozen" and that it will be the only school in the state granted the right to put on the production until early 2024.

The school — represented by Salem High School Theatre Arts — was one of 300 high schools nationwide to apply for the "United States of Frozen: Love is an Open Door" competition.

One winner was selected in each U.S. state and territory, and those shows will be the first school productions of "Frozen" anywhere in the world, according to contest organizers.

"Frozen" is based on the 2013 Disney movie and is currently touring nationwide after running on Broadway from 2018-20.

The competition was sponsored by the Educational Theatre Association, Disney Theatrical Group, and Music Theatre International.

For the competition, applicants were asked to demonstrate how they will use their production of "Frozen" to strengthen their school community, provide outreach to underserved groups and support inclusive and diverse theatre programs.

In addition to having exclusive rights in their state to stage the musical, winners are granted three free performances. They are allowed to pay royalties in order to stage more performances.

Lauren Nicole Chapman, who plays Anna in the national tour of "Frozen," helped announce the winners online.

"The competition was designed to promote inclusion and outreach in high school theater programs, a message that is particularly meaningful for all of us at 'Frozen,'" Chapman said in her announcement video.

Chapman added: "On behalf of the entire national tour of "Frozen," a heartfelt congratulations to all of the winning schools. I am so inspired by everyone who applied ... by your passion, ingenuity your commitment to creating inclusive spaces for young people through theater, and I am honored to welcome these 51 student productions into the 'Frozen' family."

Salem High School Theatre Arts indicated online that it would be staging the performances early in 2024, though offered no other details about auditions or performance dates.

"Do you want to build a snowman with us?" Salem High School Theatre Arts asked online. "We look forward to welcoming you to Arendelle in January of 2024."

David R. Scott, the director of theatrical licensing for Disney Theatrical Group, said he was excited that "Frozen" now will be an option for high school theater departments across the country.

"After mounting first-class productions of 'Frozen' on Broadway, in the West End, on tour throughout North America, and in Japan, Germany and Australia, I am thrilled that the wonderful story of 'Frozen' will soon be told on high school stages throughout the U.S." Scott said.

Scott added: "The show's message of love and acceptance will be celebrated through the diverse array of talented students bringing the beloved characters of Arendelle to life while supporting their peers and local community."