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Aladdin the Musical has flown Agrabah to Manchester in this unmissable spectacle!
Disney has brought to life the undeniably magical and utterly charming story of Aladdin, Princess Jasmine and the Genie of the Lamp. Where the race for three wishes throws a kind-hearted ‘street rat’ into an adventure that changes his life.
Don’t forget to read my top 10 shows to see in Manchester in 2024!
Opens with a bang
The moment the show opens you are granted your first wish by seeing the all-powerful Genie welcoming you to this wonderous world. Then, faster than a rub of a golden lamp, there is an explosion of colour, chorus of song and burst of movement as ‘Arabian Nights’ fills the stage.
The sets are striking, the rhinestones are glittering and the songs are a cosy comfort blanket. You can enjoy all of your favourites, plus some new ones that add their own unique flavour. It’s sumptuous for the senses.
They say laughter is the best medicine, and this production feeds you that in heaps. It’s tongue in cheek, a lot of the humour modernised, relatable.
Aladdin may not have Abu but his new besties are a fan favourite. The three stooges up the silly factor and increase the Disneyfication. NELSON BETTENCOURT (Babkak) is a standout but his band of brothers ADAM TAYLOR (Omar) and NAY-NAY (Kassim) make a powerhouse threesome. ‘High Adventure’ is a joy to watch.
A triple threat
GAVIN ADAMS (Aladdin) is peak Disney. He is almost the animation in human form. Cheeky, curious and glistening with youthful energy. You would not believe this is his professional debut thanks to the confidence and triple threat ability he leads this musical with.
DESMONDA CATHABEL (Princess Jasmine) leans into being a strong, independent woman, which is a wonderful example for today’s children. Her vocals are pristine. ‘A Whole New World’ is a whole new world of wow as they fly into the stars. Gasps from the audience well deserved.
YEUKAYI USHE (Genie) is, without a doubt, the epitome of a showman. He’s the character you are itching to return to stage at every moment. He’s loud, camp, sassy and seriously gifted in the vocal department. This is a big role to fill and he has no trouble taking that pressure and showing it who’s boss. The personality King!
‘Friend like me’ really is THE moment. The cave of wonders is dripping in gold as the Genie takes to the floor to entertain like never before. Think big costumes, magic tricks, tap dancing and fireworks. And the funny. The funny is fast and furious. The Disney song medley was a particularly inspired highlight.
Aladdin might be diamond in the rough, but Aladdin the Musical is a diamond as polished and sparkly as they come.
Tell all your friends, family, neighbours, co-workers and strangers on the street that there is a blockbuster show in town. Playing at Palace Theatre Manchester until Sunday 7 July 2024. Tickets from £20 (plus transaction fee). Tour dates can be found here.
Photo credit: Deen Van Meer