![]() The magic continued as tear-away costumes transformed Jafar from the villain, to the Sultan and finally to the genie within a matter of seconds. Imagination allowed audience members to watch in amazement as Aladdin and Princess Jasmine flew across the stage and the starry-night sky. Illusion allowed the magic carpet to take flight and draw audiences into a whole new world on stage not once but twice. The special effects, bedazzled costumes, and brilliant light work helped instill an aura of magic throughout the show. Instead of portraying Iago and Jafar as the spooky villains, the play provides more comic relief to audiences through their banter and eccentric evil laughs. Unlike his film counterpart, Iago is portrayed as a human as he assists Jafar on his quest for power. Iago’s mocking commentary and vivid facial expressions had me laughing beyond the scene endings. I agree that Genie was an enjoyable character, but one of my notable favorites was Iago played by Broadway’s cast member, Reggie De Leon. Flips, riffs, lights and pyrotechnics backed up Genie to create the show-stopping spectacle of magic in the air. While we enjoyed these additional characters, Genie (played by Michael James Scott) stole the show as an audience favorite with his rendition of “Friend Like Me.” The audience erupted in applause once Genie returned to the stage after his temporary absence during the middle of Act 1. Their slow-motion running, wit and handsome charm as they attempt to help save Aladdin from his doom, brought a smile to many faces. These characters’ interactions and actions comprise some of the most entertaining parts of the show. Rather than having Abu, Aladdin’s furry faithful sidekick, Aladdin is accompanied by three goofy yet loyal best friends, Babkak, Omar and Kassim. Although this Disney tale is well-known, the Broadway adaption held its own with new characters created to take the place of some familiar faces in the movie. The show opened with a nod to Orlando as Genie pulled out Disney Mickey Ears before immersing the audience in the land of Agrabah with the infamous lamp. These minor additions displayed helped build anticipation as we waited for the production to begin. We also got an early preview of Aladdin’s and Princess Jasmine’s costumes while we walked around before the doors opened. Once inside, visitors were further drawn in with photo opportunities of the show poster and a genie lamp. Phillips did not include extra advertising other than the standing poster inside the building, so I was excited that the North American Tour decided to make the extra effort to draw audiences into this familiar story before they even entered the building. Some other productions I have seen at Dr. However, when we stood directly in front of the building, we were welcomed with a couple of large Aladdin banners. Phillips Performing Arts Center, the perimeter of the building was cluttered with construction and did not seem very appealing. Even so, I was thrilled to be seeing this production after so many years.Īs we approached the Dr. Genie, instead, took on the role of telling the story. To my surprise and disappointment, my character did not exist in this version. Instead, I was excited about seeing my role reprised in the current Broadway production. Although I didn’t receive the role I wanted, this did not taint my view of the show. ![]() I auditioned for the part of Jasmine, but instead, was cast as Narrator 2. ![]() When I was younger, people often told me that I looked like Princess Jasmine, so I was thrilled when I found out that my middle school would be performing Aladdin Jr. Aladdin has always held a special place in my heart.
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