Aladdin

“This latest musical adapted from one of Disney’s popular movies defied my dour expectations...“Aladdin” has an infectious and only mildly syrupy spirit. Not to mention enough baubles, bangles and beading to keep a whole season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” contestants in runway attire.”

“This super-costly extravaganza doesn't do justice to the movie, or to the spirit of the late Howard Ashman.”

“While it doesn't rival the imagination or innovation of "The Lion King," the show's ebullient comic spirit should make it a popular hit. It's not the most sophisticated entertainment, but the target demographic won't mind at all.”

“Aside from the tonic of Iglehart’s djinn, however, Aladdin is short on magic.”

“So why is Aladdin a bit of a chore? Even the best of what the writers offer doesn’t seem to stick very long; if it weren’t for Nicholaw’s merciless flogging, you feel the story would simply evaporate in the desert heat.”

“It's not nearly as good as the movie, but it does have a terrific star, super-duper sets and sensational special effects.”

“This version of 'Aladdin' will doubtless keep your kiddies happy; for adults, one would like to press Iglehart in the cause of conjuring a desert kingdom of richer enchantments.”

“This is one of the better Disney stage musicals, complete with several eye-popping production numbers”

“Disney wanted something it could market not only to the parents-with-children crowd but also to date-night couples looking for a few laughs. Wish granted.”

“The show is as colorful as the Crayola 64 box, and as tirelessly energetic as a toddler, but it also feels canned. While burning through wishes, you should ask for the musical to have a lot more heart. The absence is glaring, given that Disney excels at tugging at tickers and then making them melt.”

“James Monroe Iglehart injects liveliness and humor into a merely tolerable stage adaptation of Disney’s animated hit 'Aladdin'.”

“It's genie-us! 'Aladdin' rubs you the right way”

“Much of the show just skedaddles along, hitting the plot points without enough oomph.”

““What makes ‘Aladdin’ a successful stage adaptation...is the clever but laid-back humor—rife with jokes and word play that defy demographic barriers...coursing through its gentle, unselfconscious critique of class and gender inequality...Leung makes a surprisingly, fetchingly boyish Aladdin...Jacobs is appropriately direct and wholesomely alluring...Attaway wisely traces the footsteps left by Iglehart...The musical is still a balm and a tonic—with perhaps a bit more punch nowadays.””

“The musical comedy is all about one character: the Genie. But that is not the only thing worth talking about. From “Arabian Nights” to “Prince Ali,” Nicholaw uses his multicultural ensemble flawlessly, unraveling layers to each number that surprise and wonder. You’ll also marvel at Gregg Barnes’ stunning costumes, rich in jewel-tones, feathers and sparkle.”

“Enchanting but not extreme, magical without unnecessary fireworks, jaw-dropping without having to fly over the audience.”

“Score Aladdin a considerable win for Disney, likely to fill the New Amsterdam with happy crowds for seasons to come. Better than Little Mermaid, Aida and Tarzan, though not exactly a knockout.”

“Aladdin, while charming and fun, lacks the enchantment and savviness of Disney’s most notable theatrical productions.”

“Everything about Aladdin is a win win WIN!”

“This larger-than-life, stunning visual production that sparkles on many levels really is a treat”

“The reason Aladdin works so well on the stage is that it always seemed destined for it. I'm happy to report that it makes the transition to stage seamlessly in a lavish and magical production that the whole family will enjoy.”

“Disney’s latest offering at the New Amsterdam Theatre, is simply . . . maaaahvelous! The costumes, the sets, the kitsch and comedic fun made me feel like a kid again.”

“The stage is alive from beginning to end. It’s a spectacle of lights and sound...Iglehart was a most lovable Genie, and the audience ate him up. It’s not often you see a standing ovation partially through the 1st act, but this stuff is so good. The audience was so energized, that the whole theatre was shaking...So there you have it...Don’t walk….RUN.”

“Aladdin is frisky and fun, another demonstration of Disney professionalism.”