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This week's topic is the Disney Classic movie, Aladdin The Musical. (http://www.aladdinthemusical.com/tickets) Originally televised in 1992, the magical show had been confirmed that it would soon hit Broadway. In 2011, the show began to pick up speed and eventually hit the stage earlier this year.
Aladdin is a street-urchin who lives in a busy town with his best friend who happens to be a monkey names Abu. When Princess Jasmine gets tired of being forced to remain within the palace that overlooks the city, she sneaks out and accidentally meets Aladdin. Unfortunately, the evil Jafar, who is the sultan's advisor, has Aladdin thrown in jail. Aladdin soon becomes caught up in Jafar's plot to rule the land with the aid of a magical lamp. Legend has it that only a certain someone can retrieve the lamp from the Cave of Wonders. Aladdin may be that certain someone, but it is not enough to marry Jasmine.
Jonathan Freeman, who adapted the role of Jafar on Broadway, drew many audience members in and made them feel like a part of this magical production. The actors who portrayed Aladdin and Jasmine (Adam Jacobs, Courtney Reed) astonished all who were lucky enough to get tickets. To purchase tickets online, visit http://www.broadway.com/shows/aladdin-broadway/.
With Tony Award-winning director/choreographer Casey Nicholaw and original music by Alan Menken, tickets blew through the roof. Ticket sales went unbelievable well; grossing out over $29 million for all Disney Classics including this unforgettable hit. To many, it was no surprise. This Tony Award winning phenomenon is a force to be reckoned with.
(Original Broadway Cast of Aladdin The Musical)
What amazed many was a tribute made to recently deceased actor, Robin Williams. The cast of Aladdin, conducted by the current Genie on Broadway, James Monroe Iglehart, sang "Friend Like Me" performed by audience and cast in Williams honor. This video has gone viral.
Until next week, have fun and sing loud.
