Disney has truly embodied the saying "Go Big or Go Home" with their staging and costuming. The audible gasps in the theatre when the Cave of Wonders was revealed with it's sparkles and gold and the brilliance of the magic carpet flying across the stage truly won every audience member over. Similarly, the costuming was on point and looked like an elevated version of the animated costumes we know from the film. With details, jewels, and embellishments galore, it truly was a spectacle.
Casting wise, Gavin Adams and Desmonda Cathabel took to the stage as Aladdin and Jasmine. Their chemistry, performances, and acting was second to none with Aladdin's being charming and cheeky and Jasmine's being full of sass and confidence. It truly appeared to be a Disney love story on stage.
I do however feel that the show's true stars are the sidekicks, which they have plenty of. I adored Aladdin's friends Kassim, Babkak, and Omar (played by Nay-Nay, Nelson Bettencourt, and Adam Taylor) who's stage comedy truly shone and had the audience laughing throughout. I also adored Angelo Paragoso as Iago. Whilst he may have been a bird in the animated film, his performance as the bumbling sidekick reminded me of LeFou in Beauty and the Beast, and this was everything that we needed this role to be. It was hilarious and full of brilliant physical comedy.
The personal star of the show had to be Yeukayi Ushe as the Genie. If I were to give my honest opinion, this show was never truly about Aladdin's search for freedom, but that of Genie's. From a show stopping opening, to the quips, sass, and comedy woven throughout the script, this role is made for a triple threat like Ushe. His performance was nothing short of perfection and I was truly captivated throughout. Whilst many may feel that these are some big shoes to fill, he did it with ease and is truly everything that the Genie should be.
Aladdin is a shining, shimmering, splendid show that truly captures the imagination and hearts of the audience. It entertains and allows you to escape into another world that is rich of colour, songs, glitter, and wonder. It's truly escapism at it's finest and Disney has not only done the film justice, but created a show that stands on it's own as a fantastic piece of theatre.
On at Mayflower Theatre, Southampton until 29th September, before continuing on a UK tour. You can find more information and tickets here:
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