Regional Theatre Review: Disney’s Aladdin

The spectacular costumes, the elaborate stage design, the magic carpet ride - the Aladdin musical has it all and more. In fact, I don’t think I have ever seen that amount of sparkle and glitter in a stage performance; I would love to see their behind-the-scenes, I bet it’s a real Aladdin’s cave excuse the pun! 

As you would imagine, Disney has pulled out all of the stops - not least on a cracking cast to bring the story of love and authenticity to life. Making his professional stage debut is Gavin Adams as Aladdin, and my what a debut he makes. Hitting all the notes and making all the right moves, Adams is a star in the making that’s for sure. He seems so at ease, weaving in and out of dialogue and perfectly timed dance moves. 

Opening in the bustling market of Arabia’s Agrabah, the bar is set. There are high-flying performances, the most colourful costumes you’d ever see and big characters to match. Aladdin and his trio of loveable pals Babkak (Nelson Bettencourt), Omar (Adam Taylor) and Kassim (Nay-Nay) have us immediately hooked with their mischief and charm.

As we’re rightly informed by the Genie who introduces the story, everyone in Agrabah can sing and dance. And we can see that aplenty throughout the whole show; at times you don’t know where to look, it’s a feast for all the senses as we’re transported from Agrabah to the Cave of Wonders, which hosts an episode of Strictly Cave Dancing (a personal highlight) and then to the height of royalty at the palace. 

Desmonda Cathabel (Miss Saigon, From Here to Eternity)’s Jasmine is wonderfully feisty and warming and the chemistry between her and Aladdin aka Prince Ali, heats up in all the right moments. I won’t ruin it, but needless to say there were plenty of gasps during the magic carpet scene. 

It is Yeukayi Ushe (The Lion King, Kinky Boots, The Book of Mormon) who steals the show as Genie. He oozes charisma throughout with impeccable choreography and countless moments of fun and humour. 

Expect all of your favourite moments and characters (Adam Strong is a wonderfully wicked Jafar along with his hilarious sidekick Iago, played to a tee by Angelo Paragoso) with timeless songs from the film, as well as new music by Tony®, Olivier®, Grammy® and eight-time Academy Award® winner Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast, Newsies, Sister Act). 

Already seen by more than 14 million people across the world, this is the first time that Disney’s hit West End and Broadway musical has been on tour in the UK. And approaching its second decade on-stage, it’s as relevant and spectacular as ever. A magical love story with themes of friendship, freedom and being true to yourself - Disney’s Aladdin musical promises to whisk audiences on an amazing journey.