DISNEY’S ALADDIN:
A MUSICAL SPECTACULAR

Aladdin at the "Cave of Wonders."

The first thing that strikes you as you enter the auditorium of the beautiful Hyperion Theatre is what an amazing job
Disney did building this theatre. Its size trumps many of the theatres on Broadway, with traditional orchestra,
mezzanine and balcony seating. It has a traditional proscenium. The theatre is atmospheric and elegant, and while it's
not as gorgeous as Disney's gorgeous New Amsterdam Theatre in New York (what is?), it would be a welcome addition
to ANY city in the world, let alone for a theme park.

The Aladdin stage show is very faithful to the Disney animated film of the same name. It just condenses it into a
40-minute or so version; leaving in all the best parts of the beloved Disney animated film.

Some of the sets are spectacular, although most are pretty much flats and sliding pieces.
The most impressive set is the entrance to the underground chamber (the “Cave of
Wonders“) that holds the magical lamp.   None of the actors were disappointing in the
production. The most impressive was the actor portraying the “Genie.” He had big shoes
to fill, following in the footsteps of Robin Williams. But this genie didn't seem to care,
putting his own take on the big blue guy, and bringing in some pretty hearty laughs. He is
obviously allowed to improvise and bring in some current-day jokes and puns, into the
show and it works well.  

Overall, the show is a delight for all ages. The scene when Prince Ali (Aladdin) comes to
Agraba with his lavish caravan enables the show to interact with the audience and wave to
the kids; somewhat reminiscent of the grand "Circle of Life" opening number in the
current Disney Broadway hit "The Lion King." This number, however, is more like a
parade at a Disney theme park, with Aladdin and company waving to the audience, much
to the delight of the kids.

The "A Whole New World" number also features Aladdin and Jasmine on a magic carpet ride,
flying above the audience, back and forth, in the auditorium. This is a nice interactive feature,
and one that kids are sure to love.

Overall, "Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular" is a thrilling addition to your day at Disney's
California Adventure. Many have praised Disney's Broadway "Beauty and the Beast" for giving
kids their first exposure to Broadway theatre. That may have been the case, but I believe
"Aladdin" has now taken over the title. This show is longer than most theme park revues,
features a full, traditional curtain call (very nice touch!) and has a production design and quality
that certainly compares with most Broadway fare.  For information on the creative team and
background regarding this production click here.  People don't have to shell out $50 plus per
ticket to experience this show, it is included in the price of admission to  Disney's California
Adventure.

The show is in its second year and is playing at the Hyperion Theatre in the Hollywood Pictures’
Back Lot area of Disney's California Adventure at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California.

When you visit Disney's California Adventure, be sure to catch this show. It takes the Disney
theme park experience to a whole new world.


Reviewed by Sunsetdev

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