Aladdin: Notes of Nostalgia and Grandeur - Amélie Tonoyan

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 Amélie Tonoyan

Aladdin: Notes of Nostalgia and Grandeur


Imagine a stage adorned with culture, vibrant colors, and an atmosphere of grandeur. Such was the enchanting experience of attending the performance of Aladdin on the fifth of December at the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis. Beyond the enchanting magic of the spectacle, a vibrant narrative unfolded as we leapt from building to building alongside the riff-raff and street rat who is Aladdin. The narrative took us on a journey, witnessing the blossoming love between Aladdin and Jasmine, and soaring through the skies on a magical carpet.

Entering Aladdin, my expectations were fueled by the anticipation of fun and nostalgia, and the Orpheum did not disappoint in delivering those sentiments. However, the opening number initially felt a bit off, lacking the expected energy. Yet, as the cast gradually warmed up, so did my own enthusiasm. The ensemble choreography, a touch often absent in contemporary musicals, was a delightful surprise, echoing the characteristic flair that Disney constantly diffuses into their productions (even in their films). The ensemble's performance created a visual spectacle, with images and colors that shimmered. While some musicals require a sense of seriousness in their presentations, Aladdin masterfully infused a feeling of sheer fun, and the choreography played a pivotal role in achieving this atmosphere.

Crafting the atmospheric and nostalgic essence of Aladdin hinges on key casting decisions, pivotal in immersing the audience in the enchanting world of Disney's iconic movie. Every casting choice made felt as perfect as it could possibly be, contributing to the overall success of the production. Adi Roy's depiction of Aladdin felt akin to sinking into my childhood couch, wrapped in warmth while curled up with my family to relish the cozy nostalgia of watching the original 1992 film. His seamless fusion of charisma and mischief evoked a genuine sense of joy. Senzel Ahmady's portrayal of Jasmine embodied what most know and love of a Disney princess: mannerisms of enchantment and grace. Surprisingly, apart from the inclusion of modern jokes and references, the most significant change in Aladdin from the original was the absence of the monkey Abu, Aladdin's faithful partner in crime. In place of Abu, the characters Omar, Babkak, and Kassim took on distinctive roles, ​​infusing the narrative with humor and providing a deeper exploration of the complexities within Aladdin's character; their presence emphasized the significance and loyalty inherent in genuine friendship. 

Similar to the significance of casting individuals who can authentically embody both themselves and beloved characters, the importance of casting with culture and race in mind cannot be overstated. Growing up Armenian, I often found myself yearning for stories that resonated with my experiences or, given the diverse cultural nuances within Europe and Asia, stories that made me feel represented and loved in a manner comparable to narratives predominantly centered around white characters. Witnessing the main characters on stage accurately represented by those of the Middle East and Asia was a crucial and affirming dimension of the theatrical experience—an element often overlooked in many stage productions and films. As the final curtain fell, I was left with a sense of gratitude for a show that had captivating performances, vibrant storytelling, and a celebration of diverse cultures.

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