Building the Magical World of Arendelle
A Conversation with Scenic Designer Tijana Bjelajac about Disney’s Frozen, The Broadway Musical
MIRIAM COLVIN: What was your research process like diving into the historical period, location, Hans Christian Andersen’s book, etc. ? How do you balance realism/historical fiction and fantasy in your design process and how did that influence your designs?
TIJANA BJELAJAC: I love doing research. I started by learning about the history and then found inspiration in the nature and architecture of the region. The set is layered, realistic and magical worlds are intertwined. Basic underlying shapes and elements are reminiscent of old Scandinavian castles and churches. The walls are covered with intricate wooden carvings that bring the forest and elements of Old Norse mythology in the story thus making the audience feel that there is a magic looming in the background. Eventually, everything transforms into the magnificent fantasy world of Ice palace that is abstract and otherworldly.
MIRIAM COLVIN: I know you’ve done Disney shows before like The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast, how has that helped you in approaching this show? Does a Disney show just feel different in any way/ does it feel more confining at all?
TIJANA BJELAJAC:· Designing Disney shows comes with a lot of creative fulfillment but also responsibility. Children as well as the adults coming to see the show expect characters and set to look a certain way. We have to follow the Disney aesthetics but at the same time give the show our own perspective and creative touch. This is one of the main challenges . It is of course helpful that I have designed Disney shows in the past although every story is unique and different. I am familiar with the process and I thoroughly enjoy it.
MIRIAM COLVIN: A lot of your work (Disney or not) seems to embody a sort of magical or whimsical mood. Does designing a show like Frozen fit into your aesthetic and the type of work you like to do?
TIJANA BJELAJAC: I think it does. I have always been fascinated with magical realism and surrealism. I love to play, invent and shape the space in unexpected ways. Depending on the story, there are varying opportunities to have whimsical elements. Frozen is a great example of a narrative that gives the chance to play and create magic.
MIRIAM COLVIN: How does the theatrical spectacle of this design add to not only the show experience, but the meaning of the story itself? How does this show speak to both young and older audiences?
TIJANA BJELAJAC: Frozen has such a beautiful message and it is definitely not a typical fairytale. Although there is a romantic love in the story, the main theme is the love and bond between two sisters that are very different but at the same time similar, being strong, independent and taking control of their own destinies. We tried to convey these messages. The design elements, such as the contrast between the cold isolation of Elsa’s Ice Palace and the warm, vibrant world of Arendelle, visually reinforce the themes of sisterhood and personal growth. As the story unfolds the two worlds merge together.
MIRIAM COLVIN:· I’d assume this is a big set with a big build. Any challenges that have come up along the way? How many people worked on bringing this set to life?
TIJANA BJELAJAC: This is my first time designing a show at Maltz Jupiter theater and it has been such a wonderful experience. Everyone is so talented , enthusiastic and really cares about bringing the vision to life. The set design for this show is ambitious, featuring a large setup with numerous scene changes and special effects. Despite the complexity and scale of the project, the process has been remarkably smooth, thanks to the exceptional teamwork and professionalism of everyone involved.
