Aladdin on Broadway

[Prince Edward]

Having bought the iTunes version (and ordered the CD), I find myself conflicted regarding how to feel about this production. They have a great cast, and the music is wonderful (Alan Menken's scores for the Disney movies are pure magic off course). It seems like they have found the right actor for every part in the Broadway production. Still, it's a BIG disappointment for me to see (hear) how Jafar's importance have been downplayed. It's all about the Genie in this version it seems (much like in the marketing of the original movie). While the Genie sounds funny, I think it's a bit to much with all his crazyness. As with Robin Williams in the original movie, it get's tiresome in the end. The story is not about him, it's about Aladdin. But since 2 of the most well known songs from the movie are Genie songs, I can understand that he get's to play an important part.

It sounds like Jasmine has gotten a bigger role, and that's good. Aladdin's friends simply does not work for me, allthough I know all about Howard Ashman's original concept for the movie (I own the CD set "The Music Behind the Magic" and have heard all the demoes for the unused songs). I find the friends misplaced, their presence is strange to me. I don't find their songs that great, and their presence are more disturbing than helpful for the narrative I think. The show would have been better without them IMO, and other characters could have gotten to sing more. Here is my biggest concern about this production...

My biggest concern about this production is how small a role the villain get's to play. He is the main antagonist and is among the most iconic of Disney villains ever. Still, his role is not fleshed out and he does not get to sing any song of importance. And when they did the brilliant move to get the brilliant Jonathan Freeman himself to play the role he originated in the movie, they should have found a way to use his talents better. Why "Why Me" was cut is hard to understand, keeping it in the movie would at least have given him something more to play with. "Diamond in the Rough" is not that great, and "Prince Ali (Reprise)" is just a short reprise. I am sure that this production would have been better off with a stronger and more featured villain. My wish to go to the US and see this while Freeman was still doing the part have almost vanished now.

I enjoy the bonus track with the Genie getting to sing some Disney ballads (his medley of Menken songs during "Friend Like Me" was really amazing, just wish that they could have included a reference to Hunchback and Hercules in it as well). But yet again, why this focus on the Genie when this is actually Aladdin's story? And why did they not let Jafar and Iago record a villainious bonus track, for example a Disney villain medley or a version of Why Me with it's new lyrics as as bonus track? Why did not Aladdin and Jasmine get to sing some Disney bonus medley? And why have they not separated Menken's discussion with the singers from the actual singing? Should have been on separate tracks. (End of rant;)

[Prince Edward]

Hercules gets some much deserved love.

My favorite part.

And while on that topic, I really don't expect Menken to be put in charge of a Disney film again, sadly. If he is, I'll be gratefully surprised. At least he has the Broadway versions of his older works to fall back on. And he did get a bone with that new ABC show, Galavant. So there's that.

I really hope Menken will get to compose more music for Disney movies, but if not I hope that Disney at least will hire him to make Pocahontas and Hercules into Broadway adaptions. Disney have an opportunity to make use of Menken's skills while he is still around, and his 90's movies (as well as Enchanted and Tangled) are indeed suitable Broadway material.

[disneyprincess11]

James M. Iglehart has won a Drama Desk for the Genie!

[TsWade2]

James M. Iglehart has won a Drama Desk for the Genie!

Awesome! But I'm still doubting that Aladdin will win a Tony for Best Musical. A Tony Award for Best Featured Actor is most likely, but sadly, not Best Musical. Because those Tony voters are nothing but a bunch of anti-Disney jerks. They always hate Disney. You know, I feel the reason why Disney keeps losing a Tony for Best Musical because they've been adapting their movie into Broadway musicals that might be the problem. Lion King won a Tony Award for Best Musical is a stroke of luck. If Hunchback of Notre Dame and Frozen didn't win A Tony for Best Musical, then I suggest they should stop adapting their movies into Broadway musicals and come up their own. Make new musicals that based on plays or novels. Or make a original musical. They once tried to adapt Jules Feiffer's book The Man In the Ceiling in a musical, but sadly, it didn't work out. So Disney needs to step up and create their own storytelling if they want to win a Tony for Best Musical again.

[disneyprincess11]

So, a certain someone might have gotten Adam Jacobs interested in Giants...

[rubyslippers]

Having bought the iTunes version (and ordered the CD), I find myself conflicted regarding how to feel about this production. They have a great cast, and the music is wonderful (Alan Menken's scores for the Disney movies are pure magic off course). It seems like they have found the right actor for every part in the Broadway production. Still, it's a BIG disappointment for me to see (hear) how Jafar's importance have been downplayed. It's all about the Genie in this version it seems (much like in the marketing of the original movie). While the Genie sounds funny, I think it's a bit to much with all his crazyness. As with Robin Williams in the original movie, it get's tiresome in the end. The story is not about him, it's about Aladdin. But since 2 of the most well known songs from the movie are Genie songs, I can understand that he get's to play an important part.

It sounds like Jasmine has gotten a bigger role, and that's good. Aladdin's friends simply does not work for me, allthough I know all about Howard Ashman's original concept for the movie (I own the CD set "The Music Behind the Magic" and have heard all the demoes for the unused songs). I find the friends misplaced, their presence is strange to me. I don't find their songs that great, and their presence are more disturbing than helpful for the narrative I think. The show would have been better without them IMO, and other characters could have gotten to sing more. Here is my biggest concern about this production...

My biggest concern about this production is how small a role the villain get's to play. He is the main antagonist and is among the most iconic of Disney villains ever. Still, his role is not fleshed out and he does not get to sing any song of importance. And when they did the brilliant move to get the brilliant Jonathan Freeman himself to play the role he originated in the movie, they should have found a way to use his talents better. Why "Why Me" was cut is hard to understand, keeping it in the movie would at least have given him something more to play with. "Diamond in the Rough" is not that great, and "Prince Ali (Reprise)" is just a short reprise. I am sure that this production would have been better off with a stronger and more featured villain. My wish to go to the US and see this while Freeman was still doing the part have almost vanished now.

I enjoy the bonus track with the Genie getting to sing some Disney ballads (his medley of Menken songs during "Friend Like Me" was really amazing, just wish that they could have included a reference to Hunchback and Hercules in it as well). But yet again, why this focus on the Genie when this is actually Aladdin's story? And why did they not let Jafar and Iago record a villainious bonus track, for example a Disney villain medley or a version of Why Me with it's new lyrics as as bonus track? Why did not Aladdin and Jasmine get to sing some Disney bonus medley? And why have they not separated Menken's discussion with the singers from the actual singing? Should have been on separate tracks. (End of rant;)

I think it's understandable from a creative POV why "Why Me" was cut, even if it means depriving Freeman of a full villain song, which is a darn shame. The original placement of the song in Seattle was after Jasmine runs away but before she goes to the marketplace (at this point in the show, Babkak, Omar, Aladdin, Kassim was the introduction song for the characters and was placed before One Jump Ahead, instead of being a later performance in the street to earn money). In Seattle, Why Me was effectively an introduction song for Jafar and his motives, whereas now Jafar's motives are revealed in regular scenes. While fun, IMO the song really seems to drag the show in this spot--it's an odd placement in between two 'Jasmine' scenes.

Personally I think it would really be fantasticin place of the Prince Ali Reprise, but it's very unusual for any Broadway adaptation to remove a character's songs--you would have people wanting to know "where's Jafar's song from the movie?!" Diamond in the Rough is more visually entertaining and stylistically upbeat than Why Me, and gets the audience pumped for the big scene about to show up. From the Broadway audios I've heard, Jafar has more dialogue scenes than he did in Toronto, which do add to his character--even if I still think the big climax with Jafar gaining power isn't strong enough.

I know why people are upset that Jafar doesn't get a big villain number, and I can very much understand it especially since it's Jonathan Freeman in the role and he would knock such a number out of the theater, but I can also understand from the creative team's POV why it was ultimately cut from the show.

As for why Jafar and Iago or Jasmine and Aladdin didn't get to record a Disney medley--the Disney medley bonus track is actually from a work session where they were trying to hash out what Disney songs could be used in the Friend Like Me medley, so the recording is actually probably from 2013 or maybe even earlier. So the track (and the Proud Of Your Boy bonus) were not recorded specifically for the album, but taken from previously recorded sessions. Since there was on point in the show where anyone but Genie would be doing a Disney medley, there was no reason for the other actors to have that sort of session.

It would have been really nice to have a bonus track of Call Me a Princess and Why Me, though maybe they didn't have any clear recordings from the work sessions to use.

Although fun fact: The medley used to include a line from Go the Distance! "Like a shooting star, I can do the distance!" It was right after "wouldn't you think I'm the Genie who has everything?" and before the Under the Sea 'ba da ba ba ba' bit. They removed it after the Toronto run.

[thelittleursula]

So, a certain someone might have gotten Adam Jacobs interested in Giants...

Yes ! I was hoping that Adam Jacobs would be in Giants; hopefully he will be.

I'm also hoping for Laura Osnes [ Cinderella, Bonnie- Bonnie & Clyde ]

[Atlantica]

I haven't been following this thread as much, as I find it too sad that I will likely never see it

Being a huge Mermaid fan, I purchased the making of book and the soundtrack (imported both as Disney Theatrical are extremely harsh to their UK fans).

I love Menken and I obviously love Aladdin; is it worth me downloading the Broadway soundtrack ? Or should I just stick with my film score ?

[thelittleursula]

I love Menken and I obviously love Aladdin; is it worth me downloading the Broadway soundtrack ? Or should I just stick with my film score ?

Just go here and listen to the scores on YouTube if you want to know whether they are worth buying c:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7O3L8 ... pB4N6fSTCw

[Atlantica]

Thank you very much for that, will have a listen this eve !

Whats your personal opinion ?

[moviefan12]

Atlantica, I know you didn't ask my opinion but the Broadway soundtrack is very much worth it as it is fantastic and Jame Monroe Inglehart's take on Friend Like Me is just fantastic and dare I say it, almost better than Robin Williams' version.

[Atlantica]

Atlantica, I know you didn't ask my opinion but the Broadway soundtrack is very much worth it as it is fantastic and Jame Monroe Inglehart's take on Friend Like Me is just fantastic and dare I say it, almost better than Robin Williams' version.

I'm asking everyones opinion really ! Nice to know what everyone thinks, as you are all so passionate on here about it

moviefan12, that's praise indeed, if you think it could be better than the original !!

[thelittleursula]

Thank you very much for that, will have a listen this eve !

Whats your personal opinion ?

I love Aladdin to death, so this post might be a bit long.

Arabian Nights Love it. It's a nice and upbeat and welcoming introduction song, and the Arabian beat and tune has always been amazing with this song, and it's awesome how the song starts out slow and soft; but then picks up speed as the Genie gets more and more enthusiastic about getting to tell you the story of Aladdin.

One Jump Ahead I personally prefer the original animated version here; though it might be a bit better when watching the actual thing on Broadway. The two and two together when watching the actual show might formulate better than just listening to the OST.

One Jump Ahead reprise Way too short, they could of at least added in a few more lines here ? Otherwise, what's the point ? It almost feels pretty pointless.

These Palace Walls Not keen on this song, not really, because Jasmine is venting and ranting about being forced into a quick marriage and being forced into a marriage with a complete stranger ; though the background woman singers just sound really annoying and obnoxious. Also the line " they just want my royal jewels " makes me crack up. Sorry dirty mind.

Babkak, Omar, Aladdin, Kassim This is really disappointing, because I have always loved this song, and it starts off really good with the Arabian tune, but it's just destroyed by female background shouting the male character's names.

Not to mention the horrible- Babkak, Omar, Aladdin- KAAASS-EEEEEEEMM

A Million Miles Away I have never really been too keen on this song, it's not dreadful or anything, it's a nice and sweet romance song for Aladdin and Jasmine; though it just feels like it belongs more in Wicked than Aladdin ? It just has that Wicked emotion than Disney's Aladdin imo.

Diamond In The Rough Oh Jafar would make a terrible car salesman. It's a entertaining song as Jafar and Iago try and charm Aladdin into heading into the cave so he can receive the lamp. Jafar trying his best to try and sound charming and failing because of his anger management issues is very entertaining. I think Johnathon Freeman had tons of fun with this !

Friend Like Me Everybody loves this song and believes that it's the best song there; and it's alright. It's amazing yes, and really good- though I feel like personally, personally ! It drags on for far too long and Genie singing past Disney songs is a bit random ? Though like One Jump Ahead, it might formulate much better when watching the show; which makes alot of sense.

Act One Finale- Proud of your Boy/ Friend Like Me Reprise - Nice ending to the first part and I have always loved Proud of your Boy, and Adam just gives the song so much love and justice

Prince Ali Yeah this song is fantastic, just really fun and energetic; like the song should be. Also love the introduction by Aladdin's friends. It's a bit Vagas Casino show though, keep on thinking that Elvis is going to show up or Celine Dion.

A Whole New World Yeah, love it. So very cute and romantic. It's a bit more passionate than the original too.

High Adventure I love this song, very exciting and Aladdin's friends make the song very entertaining; Love the coward friend. It's one the songs that makes me wish that I lived in America and could see the actual show.

Somebody's Got Your Back I love this song, but it's so sad, because of how Aladdin breaks his promise later on. Genie sounds so cute and happy to be free soon and UGH. Aladdin you selfish jerk. It's a cute friendship song; though made sad by what occurs later on. UGH. Aladdin you ass.

Proud of your Boy ( reprise ) Again, love and adore this song; and shows Aladdin's feelings and emotions on what choices he must make for his future and know that he must make the right choice, in order to make his Mother proud and happy of him.

Prince Ali ( Sultan version ) I'm really shocked and surprised by this song, thinking that was going suck and just be a pointless add- but it's actually good; like it's really catchy and cheerful and everything. Surprise of 2014.

Prince Ali ( Jafar version ) Again I'm disappointed by this. I looove villian songs, like alot. I usually hate and despise Disney villains expect Ursula Little Mermaid and Hans from Frozen and usually just adore the badguy song; than the actual character. Even with Ursula, it's more because of Poor Unfortunate Souls. Though it just feels, lacking and rushed. Disappointment of 2014.

Finale Nice ending and nice wrapping up; I assume Aladdin and Jasmine get married here.

Yeah I wish I could see the actual thing; though I love and adore the OST minus a few flaws.

[disneyprincess11]

So, a certain someone might have gotten Adam Jacobs interested in Giants...

Yes ! I was hoping that Adam Jacobs would be in Giants; hopefully he will be.

I'm also hoping for Laura Osnes [ Cinderella, Bonnie- Bonnie & Clyde ]

Well, the same somebody might have mentioned it in her letter to Laura.

And great review, ursula!

[thelittleursula]

Yes ! I was hoping that Adam Jacobs would be in Giants; hopefully he will be.

I'm also hoping for Laura Osnes [ Cinderella, Bonnie- Bonnie & Clyde ]

Well, the same somebody might have mentioned it in her letter to Laura.

And great review, ursula!

Thankyou <3

I managed to see a clip of Prince Ali on youtube that was on The View and yeah, it is Vagas themed. Not sure how to feel about that.

Anybody else who has seen the show got any thoughts on the Vagas feel ??

[Atlantica]

Thank you so much thelittleursula !

I really, really appreciated that! Sure everyone else did too

When I get paid, I will treat myself.

[Disney's Divinity]

Yes ! I was hoping that Adam Jacobs would be in Giants; hopefully he will be.

I'm also hoping for Laura Osnes [ Cinderella, Bonnie- Bonnie & Clyde ]

I wouldn't mind Adam Jacobs being in a Disney film. I don't get the love for Laura Osnes though.

@ Atlantica: It's actually easier for me because I know I'll never see the Broadway shows. So I just look at it as an opportunity to hear new takes on Menken's great soundtracks with new professionals (+ some of the unused songs, which is an even bigger plus). Hearing new takes can often make me appreciate the music in new/different ways.

[Atlantica]

@ Atlantica: It's actually easier for me because I know I'll never see the Broadway shows. So I just look at it as an opportunity to hear new takes on Menken's great soundtracks with new professionals (+ some of the unused songs, which is an even bigger plus). Hearing new takes can often make me appreciate the music in new/different ways.

Thats actually a really good way of looking at it, didn't think of it like that. I think you must be a positive person than I ! But it makes sense for sure

[moviefan12]

I have to say that I haven't stopped listening to "Proud of Your Boy" since I downloaded the soundtrack. That's always been one of my favorite Disney songs and to hear it be sung on the Original Broadway Cast recording just makes me weep and so happy, I think I may have found a new favorite Disney song.

[PatrickvD]

So, will Aladdin take anything home at the Tony's tonight?

It would be a crime if it lost best music. Is there really anything with better music this season on Broadway? And Iglehart has a legitimate shot I think. Other than that, I think Broadway will continue to snub Disney, even though this production is probably lightyears ahead of Tarzan and Mermaid. Then again, Newsies got some love last year... and Aladdin is doing incredibly well with audiences.

That and Aladdin was born for Broadway. Can't wait to see what songs they'll perform during the show. My money would be on Friend Like Me.