The Genie’s wishes have finally come to fruition and Disney’s West End and Broadway smash hit, ‘Aladdin’ flies into Manchester’s Palace Theatre.

On the mean streets of Agrabah, plucky ‘street-rat’ Aladdin (Gavin Adams) finds himself in a world that’s never quite on his side. Orphaned and alone, he falls into the hands of the wicked Jafar (Adam Strong) who convinces him to enter the mystical Cave of Wonders, in search of a magical lamp and a whole new world of opportunities. Romance, adventure and magic ensue, but does this production take the audience on a magic carpet ride? Or would you have more fun at your local Carpet Right?

Aligned with the original story-in-principal, Alan Menken’s classic score is paired ingeniously with Howard Ashman’s iconic lyrics. Truly a partnership of wonder, it’s the jewel in what is already a glorious crown. The pair’s fresh creative offerings allow the production to soar to new heights, brought to life by an extremely talented and diverse ensemble. Additional material layers the production and gives the audience a new perspective of each character- particularly the exquisite ‘Proud of your Boy’- with triple threat Adams giving Aladdin a sense of vulnerability, that leaves you rooting for our protagonist in a way that may otherwise feel lacking. This mix of nostalgia-evoking, musical standouts and timeless new compositions blend seamlessly into the narrative.

Most performers can carve a successful career from sheer talent alone; however, Yeukayi Ushe as the Genie gives the audience a performance that is nothing short of showstopping. Ushe’s ability to act through his eyes alone is a gift that not everybody possesses but, girrrrrrrl, he’s got it and then some.

In this production, Aladdin doesn’t tackle the streets alone. Goodbye, Abu and hello to Babkak (Nelson Bettencourt), Omar (Adam Taylor) and Kassim (Nay-Nay), who give scene-stealing performances as best friends and fellow street-dwellers. To play a supporting role as part of a trio and still stand out is no easy feat, but each performer gives it their all, ensuring each of the characters are fully realised.

Unfortunately, due to the book (and at times, the staging), certain characters come across as panto-esque which draws the audience out of the magic that is Disney. Although the performers are extremely talented, it is hard not to crave a reinstated fourth wall.

Speaking of walls, in a world where classic musicals have heavily become screen-centric (see the most recent Beauty and the Beast tour), vibrant Scenic Design (by Bob Crowley) transports the audience to a blistering Agrabah. Immediately capturing its essence, it immerses the audience with stunning visuals- complimented beautifully by Natasha Katz’s Lighting Design, which hits the glitter in all the right places. A particular stand out being in the Cave of Wonders which led to audible gasps amongst the audience. Adding to this is sumptuously colourful Costume Design (Greg Barnes), which is some of the most breath-taking I have seen on stage with every detail brought to life by Casey Nicholaw’s slick and punchy choreography.

But hold your breath, it gets better…

The moment everyone is waiting for arrives early Act 2 and it does not disappoint; leaving the audience wondering, “HOW DID THEY DO THAT?!”

The famous flying carpet sequence is a production highlight (Special Effects Design by Jeremy Chernick). A mesmerising scene leaves the audience open-mouthed in awe and there were definitely tears in a certain reviewer’s eyes, seeing a childhood favourite scene brought to life in glittering real time.

Aladdin is an enchanting theatrical event, filled with nostalgia and brimming with talent throughout the entire company and audiences will leave The Palace with an indescribable feeling. Truly, a shining, shimmering, splendid production.

Aladdin runs at The Palace Theatre, Manchester until Sunday 7th July before continuing to tour the UK. Further information and booking available here.

Gifted in exchange for an honest review.

Photography by Deen Van Meer.