Aladdin Jr

Westholme school kindly invited me to review their production of Disney’s musical, Aladdin Jr. the story of a poor young man who is granted three wishes by a genie in a lamp. Aladdin uses his three wishes to woo a princess, thwart the evil Grand Vizier and set the genie free. With a combined cast of 70 actors, the stage was alight with activity. Westholme like to give all actors a chance in the spotlight so often put more than one cast together, the core ensemble stays the same whilst some leads alternate performances. For this production, I was fortunate enough to see both casts on separate nights, I have chosen to review the second production, viewed on the 11th of October, as for me it was technically more refined. I have to say though, the cast excelled on both evenings, and I will acknowledge the alternate cast later in this review.

Director Mrs. Amy Holland knows how to put a show on with the ‘wow’ factor, each actor on the stage not only looked fabulous in costume but the energy started high and remained until the final curtain fell. The entire cast were, always focused. They knew where and when to move, without interfering with the action played out around them, often drifting on slowly, building in numbers in preparation for an ensemble routine. With such a large cast, one would expect the stage to be full, however, an extension to the front of the stage (usually the band pit) gave them room to move further forward. The ensemble also used the steps leading up to the stage as well as the stairs on the balcony, giving the audience a splendid view of all the cast. I loved the bazaar scenes, the stage busy, bustling, colourful, and loud. Each actor animated, committed to their role. I particularly liked the merchants holding their wears aloft, easily recognisable as they moved throughout the throng of customers. The stage held small lamps, set appropriately out of the way of feet but still very much present. The surrounding banisters, festooned with colourful fabrics, the flats and backdrop painted as store fronts, all creating an instant ‘Arabian’ feel. I do like little touches, the attention to detail throughout was undeniable. For me, changing the lamp as Aladdin tricked the Vizier was great, swopping out the regular genie lamp for a black lamp: nice. The flying carpet looked fabulous, both Aladdin and Jasmine expertly hiding their safety harnesses, the dialogue covering the scene allowed the actors to fasten themselves on discretely. The younger audience members collectively gasping in awe as the carpet rose up and floated around. The backstage team working their magic to create a flawless rise and fall as the carpet ‘flew,’ well done all.

The Musical Director, Mrs S. Eames created wonderful harmonies within the ensemble, each voice complimenting the next. The opening number ‘Arabian Nights’ featuring the whole cast was fabulous. The energy was electric, setting the tone for the whole show. Leading actors were strong singers, the combination of vocals and dance routines was notable. I particularly liked the energy and timing of ‘High Adventure.’ Babkak, Omar and Kassim singing whilst doing a continually active dance, each voice was strong throughout. Choreography by Mrs K. Barber was energetic and bright. The chorus of dancing girls looked wonderful. The dance moves were synchronised, animated, and made even more exotic by the beautiful costumes that floated as the girls moved. It is no mean feat to create routines with so many bodies on stage, especially energetic ones, Mrs Barber met that challenge head on, and the results were amazing. Costumes are an essential part of Aladdin. Mrs J. Ward-Thompson worked her magic, and each actor looked the part to perfection. The beggars looked tatty and downtrodden, the rich gleamed and sparkled in contrast. The costumes were colourful and eye catching, I particularly liked Iago’s costume, black leggings, and jacket with black iridescent feathers cropping the shoulders, a suggestion of feathers on the wrists and ankles with iridescent black shoes. The costume picked up the lights and shimmered as Iago moved around. Mr G. Ward-Thompson provided the lighting. Rich jewel like colours lit the stage, the cave scene with Aladdin was atmospheric, dark, with blues pinpointing the actor. The carpet ride lit to stand for a night's sky. Reds followed Jafar as he hatched his evil plans. Street scenes were bright and vibrant. This was an ever-changing lighting plot, with no noticeable faults. The sound by, Mr M. Bradford was clear, with no dropouts or open microphones. The placement of free-standing microphones set around the staircases for the ensemble allowed chorus members volume, especially the individuals who sang the odd lines within the songs. Vocals for lead actors were clear, the soundtrack going with the production was just the right volume. Mr D. Lyle, as Stage Manager kept all departments running smoothly. The crew were always slick and unobtrusive.

Playing the titular role of Aladdin was Lilly M. Lilly was vivacious, her energy boundless. She sang with confidence; her accent and mannerisms were great. The chemistry with her fellow actors was excellent. Lilly looked to be enjoying herself immensely and it showed in her performance. Isabelle H played the Genie. This was an impressive performance from Isabelle, she was larger than life with great comedy timing. Her facial expressions made the audience laugh aloud. Isabelle has a strong stage presence; her performance was memorable.

 Looking resplendent in her costume, Samra J performed as Princess Jasmine. Samra had a lovely singing voice, her duet with Lilly, ‘A Whole New World’ was harmonious and strong. She gave her character the substance, with a little ‘sass’ in her delivery, well done. Sanna M. played Jasmine’s ever indulgent yet stressed out father, Sultan. With witty dialogue, and comedic timing Sanna was clear and confident throughout.

Displaying the malevolent Jafar was Quincy D. Quincy imbued all the sinister characteristics of the evil Vizier. His evil laugh transforming into a coughing fit made the audience giggle. Quincy had just the right amount of distain for the character, his poise was aloof, his facial expressions serious. The role of Jafar’s sidekick parrot, Iago, was played by Charlotte W. With her slightly stooped posture and squawking dialogue Charlotte was laugh aloud funny. Her dialogue was clear despite the squawks, her lines delivered with good comic timing and animation.

Aladdin has three inseparable friends: Babkak, Omar and Kassim. Eva R was jolly funny as the ever-hungry Babkak, Lilly P, gave an energetic performance as the kind-hearted Omar and Harmony G was great as the stubborn Kassim. These three actors had wonderful stage presence, their dance routines were energetic and entertaining. The chemistry between the three was strong. Each giving memorable performances, with lovely harmonies and witty dialogue.

Maggie E, Jessica H and Kitty B played the roles of Princess Jasmine’s attendants: Rajah, Manal and Isir. The three had many scenes with Jasmine, all giving confident performances, their inclusion in the dance routines was a nice touch.

I would dearly like to mention each person individually but unfortunately, I cannot. I would however like to give a little acknowledgment to some of the performances from the alternate cast: Iris G as Aladdin, Louka M as Genie, Florence M as Jasmine, Jonathan B as Jafar and Josephine E as Iago, all gave strong, notable performances.

Westholme school always put on a fantastic performance. The audience applauded loudly throughout. It was fun, vibrant, and engaging, energetic, and colourful. I would like to thank Westholme school and Mrs Amy Holland for inviting me and my plus one and for their gracious hospitality. I look forward to seeing many more productions from them in the future.

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