“Disney’s Frozen” has been confirmed as part of the 2025-2026 season lineup at The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre at The J.
The production, which will run from July 8-26, 2026, will be co-produced with The Coterie Theatre.
“The Coterie is committed to partnering with organizations in our region who believe that arts experiences are crucial for our young people and families,” said The Coterie Managing Director Jonathan Thomas. “Partnering with another theater as part of that commitment adds an exciting element, particularly when it's one with such a longstanding tradition of excellence in our community.”
This production will be the first time the musical is locally produced in Kansas City. Currently, only professional theatres have access to “Disney’s Frozen;” however, the partnership between The White Theatre and The Coterie allows The J’s theatre venue to participate in producing the show earlier than it would have otherwise.
“We are so excited to once again be partnering with The Coterie,” said Keith Wiedenkeller, outgoing director of arts and culture at The J and artistic director at The White Theatre. “It’s great to be reigniting this relationship. In many ways, it’s the perfect partnership, with each organization benefitting from the other’s strengths.”
The Coterie and The White Theatre first collaborated through a co-promoted, sold out run of “Disney’s Newsies” in 2018. The production helped set the stage for this and future partnership opportunities.
More recently, Producing Artistic Director for The Coterie Khalia Davis Philp directed “The Curious Incident of The Dog in The Night-Time” as part of The White Theatre’s 2024-25 season.
“Re-establishing our partnership was a no-brainer after such a positive and uplifting experience this past season as one of their guest directors,” said Davis, who will be directing the show. “After having supported the success of ‘Disney’s Frozen’ on Broadway while working for Disney Theatrical Group, I am elated for the opportunity to bring this meaningful and beloved story to life for our audiences using local talent that reflects the rich, diverse community of Kansas City and its surrounding areas.”
Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film of the same name, “Disney’s Frozen” includes all of the film’s songs by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, including “Let it Go” and “For the First Time in Forever,” along with new music written exclusively for the stage.
Both The White Theatre and The Coterie are looking forward to producing a musical of this proportion.
“It’s a huge project, but I’m confident our collective teams will rise to the occasion, and then some,” Wiedenkeller said. “I’m convinced there isn’t a challenge we can’t handle.”
“Disney’s Frozen” will be part of The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre’s 21st Season lineup, which will be announced soon. Season tickets for the 2025-2026 productions will go on sale shortly thereafter. More information is available at thewhitetheatre.org.