Aladdin, the Broadway musical, will be presented in Montreal through Sunday as part of its North American tour. A family, connecting show. And worthy of Disney’s magic recipe.
Posted at 11:12am
A celebration of color and wonder, costumes and sets, music and dance. The musical from the film Aladdin is the meeting of Hollywood and Bollywood, the time of a pompously celebrated wedding. Even if the Disney style doesn’t please everyone, it’s clear that the producer of The Lion King remains the master of this entertainment universe populated by good feelings and super kitsch poetry.
PHOTOGRAPH BY DEEN VAN MEER, SUPPLIED BY DISNEY THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS
Aladdin: A Festival of Color and Wonder, Costumes and Sets
Additionally, only the magic of Disney in one space can bring together drag artists (like Mado Lamotte, who we spotted on the floor in civilian clothes Tuesday night), families and members of diversity ranging in age from 7 to 77. In our time (cynical, angry, post-pandemic), it’s also comforting to see 3000 people find their child’s heart… and applaud a magic carpet! How it happened when Aladdin and Jasmine floated across the stage under a starry sky with the promise of a new life together.
We will not summarize this timeless story that is part of the universal imagination. The show resumes its main lines, featuring songs from the film such as A Whole New World, the most well-known, and new tunes. Aladdin no longer has his favorite monkey Abu on stage. However, he is accompanied by three inseparable friends: Babkak, Omar and Kassim.
PHOTOGRAPH BY DEEN VAN MEER, SUPPLIED BY DISNEY THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS
Marcus M. Martin (the genius), center, is the strongest character in the musical.
The genius of the show
In this breathtaking spectacle, the most interesting characters are neither the young Aladdin, nor the sultan and the beautiful princess, nor Jago and Jafar, the vizier who wants to replace the sultan. The highlight of the production is Genie, performed with bravura by Marcus M. Martin. When he finally emerges from his magic lamp at the end of the first act, the actor pulls off a breathtaking number! All in voice and flesh, the character multiplies references to entertainment. From Chrorus Line to Dancing with the Stars to Beauty and the Beast. This funny genius even references Putin and Tim Horton’s (!) lines for the public here. We would have wished to keep him on stage longer…
With his references to American culture, such as his TV quiz (The Price Is Right), tap dancing and jazz, Aladdin hits the mark. Because Alan Menken’s music remains fairly conventional. Casey Nicholaw’s direction and choreography astound us. However, we are far from the artistic vision of, for example, Julie Taymor who created The Lion King at the theater.
A final note on the production age restriction reminder. While Aladdin is aimed at a general audience, Disney recommends this show for ages 6 and up. Hearing parents talk non-stop and telling the whole story for two hours to a kid who wants to leave can be upsetting to those around…
Aladdin
in English
Duration: 2 h 20 (with break)
Until April 2nd at the Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, Place des Arts