Disney’s Aladdin at Milton Keynes Theatre – Review

When you know that a show comes from Disney Theatrical Productions, you have certain expectations. But when that show has already had two, let’s face it, absolutely huge movies starring the mega-stars of their day – and they feature some of the best-loved songs in musical theatre, that expectation level increases just that little bit more!

Disney’s Aladdin hit Milton Keynes Theatre for it’s month-long run and we headed along to press night, to see if those expectations could and would be met…

Where to start? The excitement from the audience was palpable before the show even started, we sensed that it wasn’t just our expectation level that needed to be reached. From those first few bars emanating from the live orchestra, we definitely got the feeling, we weren’t going to be disappointed.

First up, the sets and costumes are truly something to behold. We simply cannot imagine where they manage to put everything backstage. Even during specific musical numbers there were costume changes, who has time to do that, whilst remembering to sing and dance? They’ve thrown a magical touch at everything, so much gold, glitter and sequins it would give Strictly Come Dancing a run for its money. Technology is integrated within the show, the use of lighting and projection graphics give the production a very modern feel but still keeps you grounded in the old city of ‘Agrabah’.

The cast were superb, from the Genie (more on him later) to the ensemble they all play their parts brilliantly, enthusiastically and make you want to be part of their world. The songs are all there; Arabian Nights, Diamond in the Rough, Friend Like Me and the gorgeously romantic A Whole New World. All the voices were pitch perfect, very Disney-esque but you’d expect nothing less. We found ourselves singing the songs for the next few days well after the show had finished, so be prepared for the earworms.

Gavin Adams and Desmonda Cathabel play Aladdin and Jasmine, and they purvey just the right levels of loveable rogue and sassy Princess, without being too sickly-sweet with it. But, the undoubtable star of the show is The Genie, played by Yeukayi Ushe – we honestly don’t know where to start with his performance, it was truly remarkable. He channels his inner Will Smith with a splash of Robin Williams but unmistakably puts his very own mark on this much-loved character. He’s hilariously funny, has the most incredible stage presence and some stamina to boot. The Cave of Wonders scene is epic and can only really been seen to be believed. We hope Yeakayi has a very long lie down in the interval!

We won’t give any spoliers here; but safe to say you’ll come out believing that magic carpets are completely real and that a genie really did pop out of that lamp!

So, were our high expectations met? Oh yes, and some! You won’t be disappointed in this truly magical production, it really is everything you could WISH for, or three…

 

SHOW INFORMATION

Show runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including a 20 minute interval.

It runs until Sunday 19 May (Wed to Sun) – matinees on Wed, Fri and Sat. The production is recommended for ages 6 and up, under 3s will not be permitted into the theatre.

Tickets available here: https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/disneys-aladdin/milton-keynes-theatre/