Disney on Ice presents Frozen finally skated into the Chicago area earlier this month. The show just finished its run at Allstate Arena in Rosemont and will now be playing at the United Center through Feb. 8.
If you go
United Center
1901 W. Madison, Chicago
Jan. 28 – Feb. 8
Unlike some of the more recent Disney on Ice performances, such as Disney on Ice: Princesses& Heroes and Disney on Ice: Let’s Celebrate, which features a variety of Disney characters, this version is a retelling (albeit shortened to skip to straight to the action) of the film from start to finish. Die-hard fans will be transported between beautiful and serene Arendelle and the icy slopes of the North Mountain, where all their favorite scenes will be acted out right in front of them.
Think you’re only going to the show to be your kids’ chaperone and driver? Why not allow yourself to feel the Disney magic and act like a kid again? The Frozen phenomenon doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon so you might as well make the most of the every experience while you can. Like they say, “If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em.”
Here are four tips to help:
Get there early … but not too early
Some of the best moments of going to see Frozen on ice is the buildup and the anticipation of what’s to come. Make sure to get to the United Center with enough time to park (it’s free!), get through the security check and buy snacks or souvenirs. Then settle into your seats and watch the excitement build in your child’s eyes as the lights get dimmer and dimmer.
Of course, this plan can backfire if you arrive too early. Instead of eager anticipation, you’ll be faced with bored, blank faces and a chorus of, “Is it gonna start now?”
Get into costume
Yes, that means you too, mom and dad. You’ll undoubtedly see a sea of tiny blue sparkle dresses and Olaf hats, but it makes the experience all the more fun for your kids when you get in on the action, too. Moms, borrow a tiara from your little princess or throw your hair into that signature Elsa side braid. Dads, no one will look twice at an Olaf or Kristoff T-shirt. You’ll score bonus points, though, if you show up in full prince or ice worker garb.
Know the words
Singing along is highly encouraged! Practice beforehand (You know you have the soundtrack on repeat in the car, anyway) and belt out a little “Love is an Open Door” and “Let It Go” with the best of them.
Turn the camera
So many times at events like this, we feel like we have to record what’s going on in front of us (if recording is allowed). During a hit song or a big dance number, turn the camera to focus on your child. Down the road, when you’re going through the photo gallery on your phone, it’s the magic in their eyes that you’ll want to remember, not necessarily the performance
