From the moment I first saw Disney’s Aladdin on the small screen of our family’s living room TV, I was captivated by the magical world of Agrabah and its enchanting characters. My first Barbie was Princess Jasmine and I would daydream about meeting Genie and soaring on a magic carpet with Abu by my side. So, when I heard that Aladdin was coming to the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) from May 2nd to May 7th, 2023, I knew I had to see it.
The venue was packed with people wearing Aladdin costumes, and the excitement in the air was palpable. As I settled into my seat, anticipation filled the air. When the curtains finally lifted, I was instantly transported back to my childhood. The stage adaptation of Aladdin remained true to the animated film that had captivated me as a child while offering a fresh, lively, and thoroughly entertaining take on the classic tale. I have to admit that the first two scenes left me a bit skeptical. However, as soon as Jafar and Iago entered the stage, my mind completely changed.
The Broadway adaptation skillfully incorporates additional characters to replace some of the beloved animal sidekicks from the original film. For example, Jafar’s cunning bird Iago is transformed into a hilarious human character, who consistently elicited hearty laughter from the audience. Lago was one of my favorite characters of the night. He made us laugh the entire time and even feel sorry for him at times. Aladdin’s mischievous monkey, Abu, was also substituted with three endearing friends who loyally support Aladdin throughout his adventures.
The breathtaking costume design, which incorporates over 8,000 Swarovski crystals, further enhances the visual appeal of the show. The meticulous attention to detail and grandiosity of each costume, from the main characters to the ensemble, creates a truly immersive experience for the audience. The musical is a feast for the senses, brimming with an array of sounds and visuals that transported me right back to my childhood. The full score, featuring all the iconic songs from the Academy Award-winning soundtrack, along with new pieces written especially for the stage, resonated deeply. The seamless integration of special effects adds another layer of wonder and enchantment to the production.
“Diamond in the Rough” was an absolute showstopper, with Jafar and Iago stealing my heart through their masterful performance of this captivating song. Their chemistry on stage, combined with their powerful vocals, had me completely enthralled and rooting for the villains just this once. Following this brilliant number, we were transported to the mysterious and enchanting Cave of Wonders, where “A Friend Like Me” took center stage. The dazzling special effects and visual illusions during this song were nothing short of spectacular, with Genie’s magical prowess on full display. The energy, choreography, and sheer brilliance of this performance left the audience awestruck, making it for me one of the most memorable moments of the entire show.
During a pivotal moment in the show, Aladdin, played by the charismatic Adi Roy, finds himself in Jasmine’s chambers, portrayed by the enchanting Senzel Ahmady. As the two characters connect, Aladdin invites Jasmine to join him on a magic carpet ride, an offer she eagerly accepts. The magic carpet scene certainly does not disappoint. With the iconic ballad “A Whole New World” serving as the soundtrack to this enchanting moment, both the performers and the stunning visual effects work together to create a captivating and unforgettable experience for the audience.
The climax of the show, when Jafar takes power and wishes to become a genie himself, is nothing short of spectacular. The dazzling special effects during this scene truly highlight the magnitude of Jafar’s transformation, providing a thrilling and fitting conclusion to this incredible production. The audience is left in awe as they witness the culmination of the story, making the finale an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Aladdin, a theater enthusiast, or simply looking for a spectacular show, don’t miss the opportunity to be swept away by this spellbinding production. Aladdin is a show for audiences of all ages, but families, in particular, will enjoy sharing this adventure together. My husband, who had never seen Aladdin before, was also delighted with the show. Remember, the show runs for two hours and 30 minutes, with one intermission.