The opening night of Disney’s musical theatre production Aladdin Junior was a dazzling success. It was produced by Mercury Bay Performing Arts in partnership with the Coromind Magazine. This was the Mercury Bay Performing Arts debut performance and is a credit to all who are involved.
Through song, dance, and theatre, street urchin Aladdin and his three lively friends take us on a merry jaunt through the lanes and markets of a colourful Middle Eastern city. We meet the beautiful Jasmine – a princess in disguise – with whom Aladdin falls in love, and we watch Aladdin and company stumble upon a magic lamp inhabited by a playful genie.
We revel as they outsmart the villainous palace official, Jafar, and his treacherous companions, leading to a moral and happy ending.
The main characters are expertly cast and performed true to character: Isabella White as the charismatic Aladdin, Olivia Graham as the enigmatic Genie, and Zhyrra Alexie Honrada as the beautiful but strong-willed Princess Jasmine. Connor Maclean played the scheming villain Jafar and his sidekick Lago was played by Tahlia Osborne.
There are many others who have played their parts so well, and it is the full cast of children and youth – of varying ages – having fun and pouring everything into their performances that make this show such a success. The familiar and new songs are delivered with gusto and the costumes are bright and gorgeous. The dancing is a joy to watch and the solo dance, a mesmerizing treat.
This has been a true community effort with the support of many local sponsors. It is testament to producer Fabian Roberts and his large team who made it happen. Of course, it’s the incredible cast of children and youth from around the Coromandel who truly bring the magic to life.
Go and see it – and be prepared to be transported into Aladdin’s world through music, theatre, dance, and colour.
Thank you for the colour, the vitality and excitement you have brought to many families whose children and teens have been involved in the Aladdin production, and to the large numbers in the audiences.
Speaking to Fabian Roberts, the Director. ‘It’s been a fantastic and exhausting experience!”
Only two performances have seats available. Thursday night 15 May at 6.30pm and Friday 16 May Matinee 1.00pm Performances are at Mercury Bay Area School until 17th May. Buy tickets from Whitianga’s isite Information Centre or call 07 866 5555.
