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| Michael Maliakel (Aladdin), Shoba Narayan (Jasmine), and Michael James Scott (Genie), Photo by Evan Zimmerman |
It's hard to believe that its been 8 years since this amazing show opened on Broadway! Like all of us, its been through a lot, including one of the most challenging times in Broadway history, and is back stronger than ever, making people laugh and smile 8 shows a week. And that's the real magic that makes this show so special.
We have so many incredible memories with this show, from the pilot production in Seattle (which celebrated its 10th anniversary last year), to seeing the show on Broadway for the first time (8 years ago yesterday!), to the joy of finally being able to return to New York and see the show live again last year. I am so grateful to have witnessed this amazing journey, the joy this show brings me, I can't put into words and I treasure every chance I get to see it.
Since its premiere in 2014, Aladdin has broken 14 house records at the New Amsterdam Theatre and received the fastest international roll out of any Disney show, with eight productions around the world. I've been blessed to see the show in New York, London, and on the first US Tour (as well as a pre-Broadway regional production at the Tuacahn) and have loved every moment . And, as Aladdin begins its 9th year on Broadway, a new US Tour is in the works for October.
Tonight's evening performance marks 2,679 shows on Broadway! According to Disney this means that Aladdin and Jasmine have flown over 88 miles on the magic carpet in A Whole New World, Genie has set off nearly 100,000 pyrotechnics in Friend Like Me, and the cast and wardrobe team have made over 185,000 lighting-fast costume changes in Prince Ali! That last one is definitely real magic!
After the last few years I don't think anyone will take live theatre for granted again, and Aladdin's gift of joy and laughter is just what the world needs in these uncertain times. It's an escape to a land of music, fantasy, romance, and magic. A place where good will always triumph and wishes come true. So thank you to everyone for 8 magical years, for the energy, passion and commitment that bring Agrabah to life 8 times a week. Here's to the next 8! Keep making magic!
