In our profile series, Tell Us In 10, we ask cast members and creatives of top London shows to tell us all about themselves in just 10 questions. In today’s Tell Us In 10, we’re talking to Craig Gallivan who plays Olaf in Disney’s Frozen playing at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.
The magical movie-turned musical follows the story of two sisters, Elsa (Samantha Barks) and Anna (Stephanie McKeon) as they face ice-strong powers and unsuspected villains in their quest to save the town of Arendelle from an eternal winter. Joined by their friends Kristoff, Olaf and Sven, Anna fights to bring back summer in a heartwarming story that explores love and the special bond between sisters.
With brand new music from the writers of the unforgettable Let It Go to jaw-dropping special effects and epic scenery, it’s no surprise the musical has received incredible reviews since it opened in the West End in August.
Settle down with a cuppa as we find out more about Craig, his role as the friendly snowman and more!
1. My route into theatre was…
My younger sister Hayley was the performer in the family. At the age of 12 she dragged me to London to audition for Oliver at the London Palladium. I ended landing a part in Fagin’s gang and the rest is history.
2. My West End idol is…
I currently have two, Samantha Barks and Stephanie McKeon
Samantha Barks as Elsa, Stephanie McKeon as Anna and Ensemble in Disney’s Frozen. Photo by Johan Persson
3. My colleagues would describe me as…
The hyperactive one
4. My favourite show (that isn’t one I star/work in) is…
Billy Elliot
5. The career moment I’m most proud of is…
It doesn’t get much better than playing Olaf!
Craig Gallivan as Olaf in Disney’s Frozen at West End LIVE 2021. Photo by Pamela Raith Photography
6. The hardest part about my role is…
Mastering the Olaf puppet and bringing him to life.
7. If I wasn’t an actor, I would be…
I love making things, so probably a carpenter/ furniture maker.
Craig Gallivan (Olaf) in technical rehearsals for Disney’s Frozen. Photo by Marc Brenner
8. Something people don’t know about me is…
I played rugby for Wales in my early teens.
9. The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is…
Don’t beat yourself up after an audition. Once it’s done, walk out of the room, and ‘let it go’ (boom boom).
Stephanie McKeon, Craig Gallivan and Samantha Barks in Disney’s Frozen rehearsals. Photo by Marc Brenner
10. The one thing I wish I could tell my younger self is…
Put £1000 on Leicester City to win the league in 2016
Whether you’re a fan of the movie, lover of Disney or want to treat the family to a trip to the theatre, this magical musical extravaganza won’t disappoint. Check out the trailer below and if that’s not got you booking tickets already, you can enjoy our exclusive behind-the-scenes video series here.