Theatre Review: Aladdin, Wales Millennium Centre

Summary

 Rating: ★★★★★

 Running Dates: Thursday 7th December - Sunday 14th January

 Where to see it: Wales Millennium Centre

 Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (including a 20 minute interval)

 Keywords: Disney, Nostalgia, Family-Friendly

Review

When I saw ‘Aladdin’ was coming to the Wales Millennium Centre I was incredibly excited, but also slightly apprehensive. There's stage adaptations of movies, and then there's stage adaptations of Disney movies - ‘Aladdin’ is treasured by many, so it is safe to say the stakes were high. Was I going to be greeted with a 'shining, shimmering, splendid' spectacle? Or was I going to feel underwhelmed?

As soon as the play starts we are welcomed to Agrabah by the Genie (played by Yeukayi Ushe) in a fantastic performance of 'Arabian Nights'. This opening act perfectly sets the mood to what we are to expect from 'Aladdin' - colour, dance, music, and power.

Throughout the show the audience is presented with beautiful intricate sets. The way the backgrounds change colour at times, for instance, is a clever use of technology in a scene without ever distracting the audience from the true essence of it. Colour is undoubtedly a powerful visual aid in this show - in fact, I don't think I have ever seen such colourful, shiny, and ornate outfits in any play. From main characters to background dancers, no one is spared any detail. When all this is paired with mesmerising choreography, the audience is instantly hooked. These really are 'unbelievable sights'!

Most of the characters in the movie have made it to the stage adaptation (my plus one missed Abu!) and it is wonderful to see the chemistry between all of them. Genie is by far the most charismatic character of them all,  which perhaps makes it the most beloved, and if you watch Ushe perform you will easily see why - it is truly brilliant acting. There's also fantastic duos and trios perfectly bouncing off each other, which results in a light hearted and joyful play that is fun for all ages. But don't be fooled, while the play is very family friendly, ‘Aladdin’ does not feel childish at all (and there are even a couple of jokes for the adults in the audience!).

Where I think the play really shines, though, is in its musical performances. The cast are extremely talented and anytime Aladdin (Gavin Adams) and Jasmine (Desmonda Cathabel) sing together you can't help but fall in love with their harmonies. A big round of applause must be given to the live orchestra as well. Conducted by Dave Rose, each instrumentalist gifts us with the real magic of Disney - whimsical tunes, somehow full of power, warmth, and hope all at the same time.

Perhaps the most famous scene in the movie, 'A Whole New World' was beautifully translated into stage. The set looked like pure magic and the way the magic carpet was incorporated was both stunning and very believable. In all honesty, it was visual and auditory bliss, and I couldn't help but think 'now THIS is what musical theatre is all about'.

 So, once again, the question must be asked - is ‘Aladdin’ worth all the type?

 The short answer is yes, and I believe you will struggle to find anyone who disagrees. The play is definitely a must watch for any Disney fan. Actually, scratch that, this is a must watch for any theatre fan.

Standout Quote or Moment: 'Friend Like Me', the energy was electrifying from start to finish! 

See If: You love Disney or colourful plays with beautiful dance routines

Similar Performances: Beauty And The Beast

Last Impression: The colours, energy and delivery you'd expect from a top notch cast!

Written by Mariana Andrade