Mayflower Theatre Southampton – until 29th September
Reviewed by Emma Barnes
5*****
Disney’s Aladdin has come to Mayflower Theatre in Southampton, and oh my! What a treat. From the moment the curtain rises the stage is alive with colour and energy. We are transported to a world of shimmering palaces, bustling bazaars. I had expected this show to be vibrant, but I hadn’t quite anticipated that it would maintain the sheer level of breathtaking engagement for the duration. I found myself quite literally on the edge of my seat for the whole evening,
Having watched the classic Disney cartoon many times, I was delighted that the stage show captured so many nostalgic cartoon details. The set design is magnificent, capturing the essence of Agrabah with familiar details, lighting and a host of vibrant colour. The many many costumes are equally stunning, showcasing the opulence and grandeur of the Arabian world. We were treated to sparkly glitter, amazing choreography, magic tricks, special effects and a sublime carpet ride scene, this show simply did everything, and did it really well. A feast for the senses.
Of course, no Disney production would be complete without the iconic songs. Alan Menken’s score is as memorable as ever, with classics like “Friend Like Me,” “A Whole New World,” and “Arabian Nights” still buzzing round my head as I write these words the following morning.
The entire cast delivers flawless performances, bringing the animated characters to life with conviction. Aladdin is played by Gavin Adam in his professional debut with charm, charisma and fitting chemistry alongside Princess Jasmine played by Desmonda Cathabel as a spirited and independent heroine. For me it was Genie (Yeukayi Ushe) who stole the show with his comedic timing, pizazz and relentless energy. If I could, I would have watched the cave scene at the end of Act 1 over and over just as my childhood self would have sat and rewound the VHS video.
The production’s pacing is well-balanced, with plenty of humour provided by the villain of the piece Jafar (Adam Strong) and sidekick Iago (Angelo Paragoso). I felt that this was particularly well timed to get us into the mood for pantomime season.
Aladdin the musical certainly re-cast a spell upon middle-aged me. All too soon the show reached the fairytale ending and as streamers fell on the thrilled audience during the closing scene I experienced child like joy in picking them up and waving in the air. I thoroughly recommend this magical journey, catch it in Southampton until the 29th September.