WHILE her face might not be instantly recognisable, Idina Menzel is one of the most successful performers of the last few years. Now the star voice behind Disney’s Frozen is coming to Bournemouth next week as part of her first world tour.

In an exclusive interview with the Bournemouth Daily Echo, the actress and Broadway star revealed what it’s like to be a worldwide phenomenon ahead of her show at the BIC on June 26.

“It’s incredibly exciting. I’m visiting places I’ve never been and making new friends all over the world. I thought I might have to adapt my show for different territories, but actually I’ve been pleasantly surprised with how universal everything seems to be. People seem to know the words to all the music; songs from early albums and songs from Broadway shows that never even made their way to those countries, says Idina, 44.

Since its release in 2013, the Disney film Frozen has become a worldwide phenomenon. Furthermore, it's a musical extravaganza with the songs being incredibly catchy and adored by children and endured by long-suffering parents.

The song that has gained the fame is Let It Go, which has gained over 240 million views on YouTube, with the sing-along version viewing's also well into millions.

For those without toddlers, Frozen is based loosely on Hans Christian Andersen's The Snow Queen, has sisters Elsa and Anna who are likeable for different reasons and a powerful hook for girls.

Its strong storyline and songs were recognised by two Oscars and for more than three months, it was in the UK box office top ten. The movie is not only the highest grossing animated film but the fifth most successful of any genre, having made $1.219bn so far and still going strong.

The enormous success is something that is not lost on Idina who played the part of Elsa the Snow Queen: “Frozen is a wonderful gift. Every day for the last year and a half I have received videos from friends and friends of friends with their children singing Let It Go.

“I feel incredibly grateful to be associated with such a great film. A Disney film that has at its helm, two females - two sisters who learn that true love is not Prince Charming but the love and bond of family. I think that’s why it’s been such a success.”

The Bournemouth show on Friday, June 26 will see a mixture of songs from many different musical genres, including Idina’s love of British music.

“I try to make every show unique unto itself. I have the bones to a show but leave lots of room to divert and go off script, have fun, make mistakes. I always strive for an intimacy, no matter how large the venue.

“Of course I also have many British influences. What great artists aren’t British? Sting, the Beatles, Phil Collins, Seal, Coldplay, Julie Andrews and even Elaine Paige!”

However, it was in the theatre that Idina had her first taste of stardom on Broadway in 1996 with her Tony Award-winning performance as Elphaba, the misunderstood green girl, in the blockbuster Wicked and in her Tony-nominated role as Maureen in Rent.

Menzel also appeared as Sheila in the Encores! production of Hair and starred as Amneris in Broadway’s Aida. Other notable roles include Rachel Berry’s mother, Shelby Corcoran, on the hit television show Glee as well as starring opposite Susan Sarandon and Amy Adams in Disney’s Enchanted.

“Whether it be a musical or a personal concert, I am always seeking an authenticity and vulnerability. Whether I’m dressed in green makeup or just myself there is always a risk that is taken as an artist. In order to be powerful and connect with your audience you have to be willing to expose yourself in some way.”

When the world tour finishes in October, Idina will resume her role as Elizabeth in the original Broadway production If/Then, by Pulitzer Prize-winning team Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey.

“I will always come back to theatre. It’s where I got my start and where I feel most at home.”

: For more information on tickets visit call 0844 576 3000, book online at www.bic.co.uk or visit the BIC box office in person.