Aladdin the musical, Disney on Broadway celebrates a world of promise

As the Genie appears and the first notes of Aladdin the musical play, the theater is transported to a vibrant, lively Arabian nights and that Disney on Broadway magic is woven through the whole show.

Transforming a classic Disney movie into a magnificent, Disney on Broadway musical is no small feat. Disney’s Aladdin the musical carefully orchestrates the bold, sweeping visuals with heartfelt vocals and never forgets the touch of humor that makes a Disney musical so endearing.

With songs that have become part of the popular culture and a story that is well known, Disney’s Aladdin the musical blends the familiar with a touch of spectacle that is expected from Disney on Broadway. As seen in the colorful marketplace to sparkling gold cave, theater guests are captivated by all the sights. With so much to see, it can be difficult to see all the impressive details.

While the stage sets a big, bold tone, the performances by the cast are equally as dynamic. The ensemble’s powerful dance numbers show the precision and talent of a well-honed troupe. The audience is left as breathless after each show stopping number.

Broadway touring productions give audiences away from the Great White Way an opportunity to have a taste of the theater experience closer to home. Occasionally, the touring production has a special appearance, which is happening during the tour stop at Dr. Phillips Center.

Some Broadway roles are forever associated with a particular performer. From Ben Platt in Dear Evan Hansen to Billy Porter in Kinky Boots, these performers are forever tied to those roles.

When Aladdin the musical debuted on Broadway, Michael James Scott wowed audiences with his portrayal of Genie. Forging his own take, far different than the movie version, Scott brings wit, sassy and empathy to the role of Genie. For those lucky enough to see Aladdin at the Dr. Phillips Center, they will be thrilled with the opportunity to see Scott reprise his Genie role.

Some performers just have a way of connecting with the audience. Whether it is a small twinkle in the eye or delivery of a phrase, those little moments put special performers in a unique category. Anyone who has the privilege of seeing Scott as Genie will quickly appreciate all that nuance.

Granted, Scott brings the humor through his rapid-fire delivery, but the quiet moments are more telling. His almost father like approach in the small moments with Aladdin are endearing. Even though everyone will remember those big dance numbers and moments of levity, those small little touches set his performance apart.

While many eyes will focus on the Genie role because of its huge presence, Aladdin, played by Jonah Ho’okano, does a delightful job of playing the many emotions of the complicated role. From the scheming boy in the marketplace to the unsure young man looking to woo the princess to the man finding his way, the arc of his performance is quite moving.

As he sings about being proud of the boy, the audience wants to feel that same emotion. Everyone is willing for him to find his way, becoming the man he wants to be, and, in the end, win the love of the princess.

Granted, Disney princesses are often the focus of a Disney moment. In this musical, Jasmine is a force who speaks her mind and can stand up to the men who are trying to force her path. Just like Aladdin seeks his best life, Jasmine wants everyone to understand that she needs her own positive world, as well.

One of the most emotional moments of the night is when Aladdin and Jasmine (played by Kaenaonalani Kekoa) perform “A Million Miles Away.” It is telling how two people can look at the same place and see two totally different worlds. Where one sees opportunity, another sees a prison. That idea is relatable to anyone’s life. Life is not what is always seems.

That song is another lovely example of the smaller moments that make this Disney on Broadway music special. Of course, there are songs that everyone knows and loves, but the little, relatable moments is part of that Disney magic that keeps audiences coming back time and again.

While everyone might sing every note of “Friend Like Me” or “A Whole New World,” those songs are just are a prelude of all the magic and grandeur that Aladdin offers. Whether it is families in the audiences excited to see the movie brought to the stage or the Broadway fan who anxiously awaits the huge tap number, Aladdin the musical is a memorable night of theater that should not be missed.

Currently, Aladdin the musical, the national tour, is playing at Dr. Phillips Center through February 9, 2020. Michael James Scott will star as the Genie during this stop of the national tour.  Also, the Broadway production plays at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City.

While Aladdin might only have three wishes granted from the Genie, a night at this outstanding Disney on Broadway musical brings a bounty of good fortune for musical fans.