Before She Lets It Go: Caissie Levy on What It Takes to Play Elsa in Frozen on Broadway

In the corporate world, employees leaving a job are often asked to sit through an exit interview with HR about their time at the company. That concept doesn’t exist for Broadway performers, but we love checking in with stars as they finish up a successful run. Caissie Levy, who will take her final bow as Elsa in Disney’s Frozen on Broadway on February 16, has a long list of stage credits to her name. She made her Broadway debut in Hairspray, performed the role of Maureen on tour with Rent and played Elphaba in Los Angeles. She returned to Broadway to make a splash in Hair, Ghost the Musical and Les Misérables. Before Levy lets it go one last time at the St. James Theatre, we asked her what it takes to play Disney’s coldest princess.

How did you feel when you first got this job?
Nervous and wildly excited.

How do you feel now that you’re leaving?
Really good! It’s time to pass the torch. I feel a massive amount of satisfaction in what I’ve helped create in Elsa and in this production. I’m proud of myself, and looking forward.

What are three words you would use to describe your experience?
Beautiful. Badass. Sparkly.

What was the easiest thing about this job?
Nothing about playing Elsa is easy, but when Fran Curry is your dresser, everything is easier. She’s the greatest, and I’m so lucky to have had her by my side through it all.

What was the hardest thing?
Attempting the balancing act of motherhood and Elsa-hood. It has been extraordinarily difficult. But absolutely worth it.

What was the highlight of your time at this job?
The people. Our stage managers, the stellar crew at the St. James, our insanely talented and hilarious cast, and everyone at Disney. I’ve made friends for life.

What skills do you think are required for future job applicants?
Bravery, discipline, leadership.

What advice would you give to future employees in your job position?
Work your ass off and then trust yourself.

How do you think you’ve grown?
I feel stronger and more generous than ever before.

Why are you leaving?
To play Rose Stopnick Gellman in the Broadway revival of Caroline, Or Change.

What will you miss the most?
The astonishing sound of applause, wonder and elation that rushes at me from the crowd at the end of “Let It Go.” It is absolute magic.