ARC Performing Arts Brings Frozen Kids to Life

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when young performers step onto a stage — that moment when nerves turn into confidence, when imagination becomes storytelling, and when a familiar tale feels brand new again. ARC Performing Arts’ recent production of Frozen Kids captured that magic beautifully.

From the opening scene to the final bow, this cast poured their hearts into the world of Arendelle. Their energy, teamwork, and commitment to character made every moment feel vibrant and full of life. Photographing this production was a joy — not just because of the costumes and staging, but because of the emotion these performers brought to every beat of the story.

A Cast That Shined in Every Scene

Whether it was the warmth of sisterhood, the humor woven throughout the show, or the dramatic moments that held the audience still, these young actors delivered performances far beyond their years. Their expressions, movement, and connection to one another made for some truly memorable images.

Storytelling Through Movement and Music

One of the things I love most about photographing youth theater is capturing the moments that happen between the lines — the gestures, the reactions, the shared glances that reveal the heart of the story. This production was full of them.

From lively group numbers to emotional turning points, the cast brought a wonderful blend of enthusiasm and focus to the stage. Their dedication shows in every frame.

Behind the Scenes of a Magical Production

ARC Performing Arts continues to create an environment where young performers feel supported, challenged, and inspired. It’s clear in the way they take risks, collaborate, and celebrate each other’s successes. As a photographer, it’s a privilege to witness that growth and capture the moments families will treasure for years.

View the Full Gallery

Cast members already have this link and the special code to download the digital images. Family members can also purchase prints and gifts from Frozen Kids here: https://proofs.dabourphoto.com/gallery/ARC-FrozenKids

Prints, packages, and digital downloads are available.

Looking Ahead

Thank you to ARC Performing Arts for inviting me to capture another wonderful production. I’m already excited to see what stories they bring to the stage next — and to continue documenting the creativity, courage, and joy these young performers bring to every rehearsal and performance.

Tech Week Day 3: Where the Magic Happens—Dress Rehearsal & TV Prep

If you ask anyone involved in the Freddy Awards which day is the most pivotal, you might hear “Thursday.” But if you ask me the Freddy Awards photographer, the answer is always Wednesday.

Wednesday is where the magic truly happens. It is the bridge between the raw rehearsals of early tech week and the high-octane live broadcast of the awards ceremony. It is the day the State Theatre transforms into a full-scale television studio, and for me, it is the most rewarding day of the year to be behind the lens.

The Professional Shift: TV Prep

Walking into the theater on Wednesday evening feels different. The WFMZ-TV crew is all set up, their cameras positioned, and the production team is in “watching and learning” mode. They are mapping out every camera angle and every lighting cue, following a nearly identical tech rehearsal of the entire three-hour show. Watching the synergy between the theatrical performers and the television professionals is a masterclass in production.

The Visual Explosion: Full Costumes

This is the moment everyone has been waiting for. Wednesday is the first time all the actors, soloists, and ensembles are in full costume performing together on the State Theatre stage.

The transition from rehearsal hoodies and sneakers to vibrant, theatrical costumes is an explosion of color and character. It changes the way the students carry themselves—they aren’t just rehearsing anymore; they are the characters.

Why It’s My Favorite Day

As a photographer, Wednesday is my “gold mine” day. Because it is a dress rehearsal and not a live broadcast with a seated audience, I have the flexibility to capture the best possible action shots without the constraints of a live crowd or the strict sightlines of the actual ceremony. I get to document the sweat, the smiles, the intricate details of the costumes, and the peak energy of the routines. This is where I capture the “hero shots” that end up being favorites for years to come.

The countdown to the red carpet is almost over! If you’re a cast member or a parent, make sure you have the link ready to go. You can view all the magic from this week and our entire history of the Freddy Awards right here:

Dabour Photography Freddy Awards Gallery

Keep checking back—as soon as the magic from today is processed, it will be landing in the 2026 gallery!