Theatre Review: Disney’s Aladdin, Bristol Hippodrome
Summary:
Rating: ★★★
Running Dates: Wednesday 10th July - Sunday 11th August 2024
Where to see it: Bristol Hippodrome
Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes (including interval)
Keywords: Disney, Vibrant, Magical
Photo by Deen Van Meer
Review
Everything changes when the genie makes his appearance for ‘Friend Like Me’ - and the whole performance completely lifted! Now that was a masterclass of epic proportions.
As a self professed Disney fan, I was excited to revisit a childhood classic brought to life on the stage, Disney’s Aladdin. We all know the rags to riches story of ‘streetrat’ Aladdin falling for Princess ‘out of his league’ Jasmine and the fun, romance & adventure that follows. But, would this timeless tale live up to the audiences expectations?
Act One follows our introduction to all characters in a very bright, colourful set. However, the set until we hit the cave scene was more on par with a Panto scene than a Disney production which are known for their spectacular scenes - think Lion King, Frozen - in comparison the set doesn’t hit the mark.
The performances in the first act are full of energy and use the stage fully. However, there are super awks moments with jokes that either fell completely flat or went over everyone’s heads. It also felt as though a lot of the first act was filler before we got to the main crux of the story, so the first act did not pass quickly.
Everything changes when the genie makes his appearance for ‘Friend Like Me’ - and the whole performance completely lifted! Now that was a masterclass of epic proportions. Props to Yeukayi Ushe- whose performance as the genie would make Robin Williams grin like a kid. Honestly, I was mainly just waiting for Yeukayi to come back on stage because he really made the show.
Photo by Deen Van Meer
This number creates the energy that rolls over into Act Two and we are treated to some awe inspiring moments including the magic carpet scene that reminds you that is Disney at its very best.
Ultimately, though, although the cast are incredibly talented this doesn’t quite evoke that Disney magic like some of their other large stage shows. Too much Panto, not enough Disney.
Standout Quote or Moment: The spectacular cave scene and the musical superstar take down of ‘Friend Like Me’
See If: You love Disney & a feel good musical
Last Impression: Not Disney’s best but still good fun and worthy of a visit for the genie alone!
To get tickets for the show click here
We were kindly gifted these tickets in exchange for a review.
Written by Steph Clarke