The dancing was a wonderful middle-eastern melange — and the dance with the swords counted as fight choreography, too! There is no “choreographer” listed, that I could find. Director is Thomas Schumacher and “Dance Supervisor” is Michael Mindlin. Kudos to the creators and dancers alike who delighted us with jazz and pizazz. The many costumes were dazzling, too —designed by Gregg Barnes.
Jonah Ho’okano is the quintessential Aladdin, leading-man-handsome with a boyish innocence and generosity despite being a “street rat” and a thief at the beginning of the show — and an amazing singer/dancer. Likewise, Kaenaon Alani Kekoa as Jasmine was the quintessential modern Disney princess, feisty and adventurous as well as beautiful, and another great singer — and not taking the advice of her frustrated but benevolent father, the Sultan (Jerald Vincent).
Korie Lee Blossey brought his own style and sass to the fast-talking, flamboyant, wish-granter Genie;You Ain’t Never Had a Friend Like Mewas a show-stopper. His fabulous voice, magical charm and showmanship energized the entire show. Comedy was liberally injected by the dastardly duo of haughty Jafar (Jonathan Weir) and his adorably vicious, wisecracking sidekick Iago (Reggie De Leon). Aladdin’s three friends from the “street rat” scene were wonderful accomplices, as a trio and as distinct characters, each bringing the funny in his own way, Zach Bengal, Ben Chavez and Colt Prattes — great dancers, too.
Aladdin is a fresh, fabulous, glittering treat for the whole family. It continues through December 15. Tickets at https://www.whartoncenter.com