Aladdin Theatre Royal Plymouth Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Linda Curtain
What an amazing start to 2024 for Plymouth theatre lovers to have the chance to welcome the Disney musical Aladdin onto the stage at the Theatre Royal Plymouth.
Following on the heels of the theatre’s fantastic pantomime, Aladdin brings further spectacular family entertainment to this venue.
As many will know from the animated 1992 film, the story follows a street urchin named Aladdin from his humble beginnings in the market square of Agrabah to the fairy tale ending of becoming a prince while in the pursuit of true love – with a little help from a magical lamp and a very impressive blue genie!
Arriving last evening, the theatre was absolutely packed with everyone excited to see this iconic film transferred to the stage. With assistance from the ever helpful front of house staff, the audience were quickly directed into the auditorium where the magic began as everyone settled down and became engrossed in the story.
With an great cast portraying all the well loved characters, this production was totally amazing. The lead role of Aladdin was played by Gavin Adams who is making his professional debut in this show and what talent he has. With a strong, likeable stage presence and incredible energy throughout – he certainly has a shining future in musical theatre. His on-stage connection with the wonderful Desmonda Cathabel who played Jasmine was great – they certainly were the ideal casting for a Disney prince and princess. Jafar – played by Adam Strong – was a believable, sinister character ably assisted by Angelo Paragoso as Iago who added so much comedy to their scenes. Jo Servi as the Sultan added a regal touch to the performance as he strived to secure his daughter’s future happiness and Aladdin’s three street urchin friends (Babkak, Omar and Kassim ) were a constant presence and support for Aladdin.
And then there was the incredible blue Genie – portrayed by the amazing Yeukayi Ushe. What a character!! He was dynamic, charismatic and quite the scene stealer! His connection with the audience was outstanding and what a fantastic singing voice.
The whole production projected that special Disney magic with spectacular costumes designed by Gregg Barnes and a very strong ensemble of dancers showing such talent and commitment.
A plethora of well loved songs such as A whole new world, A friend like me and A million miles away were played by a live orchestra and sung with amazing vocals throughout.
The staging and special effects were brilliant, from the twinkling cave scene to the amazing flying carpet – Truly breath taking! Bob Crowley ( scene designer), Natasha Katz ( lighting designer) and Ken Travis ( sound designer) have certainly worked well together to produce such amazing, magical effects.
Praise to director and choreographer Casey Nicholaw for working with such a talented team to produce such a high class show.
With great choreography, brilliant casting amazing sets and fantastic songs this production has it all!
A spectacular show for all ages. What a great way to start 2024.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £20
Aladdin is at Theatre Royal Plymouth from 17th Jan – 11th Feb 2024
https://theatreroyal.com/whats-on/disneyaladdin/
For more information or to book tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com.