One Year Later

Adam Jacobs as Aladdin, Photo by Mark Kitaoka

I can’t believe that this blog is a year old.

This time last year Disney Theatrical officially announced that, in partnership with The 5^th Avenue Theatre, they were finally brining Aladdin to the stage. I originally created this blog to follow the production and limited run of that pilot production. At the time I expected I’d be doing nothing more than re-posting news from other websites, creating one location where you could find out everything about the show. I was happy with that. This blog was, and still is, a labour of love. On a whim I contacted Adam Jacobs and 5^th Avenue when casting was announced. If I’m being honest I didn’t really expect a reply, and I certainly didn’t expect the wonderful magic carpet ride that was waiting for me!

Due to the incredible generosity of The 5^th Avenue and the cast and crew of Aladdin: The New Stage Musical this blog went from simply reporting news to being able to advise fans in advance of upcoming promotional material (such as Courtney Reed’s TV performance of "Call Me a Princess"), and I had the great privilege of being able to interview almost all of the principle cast. And I still hope there’s more to come! One thing I cannot do is overstate how fantastic the people at 5^th Avenue were to me, I really could not have done this without them.

Courtney Reed as Princess Jasmine, Photo by Mark Kitaoka

Those of you who have been coming here over the last year will probably have noticed that this is the first post I’ve done that doesn’t use a quote from the film (or in some cases the show) for the title. The honest truth is I’m running out of appropriate quotes and I don’t really want to double up on post titles (I know I’ve done that at least once already!). And the time felt right for a change, anything related to the original Seattle run will still use a quote as a title but as we move into the show’s next phase of life - officially licensed regional productions - I’ll be using more "normal" titles... maybe the quotes will come back if the show goes to Broadway ;o)

This year Aladdin: The New Stage Musical is being produced exclusively at just two regional theatres; The Tuacahn Amphitheatre in Utah and The Muny in St. Louis. Tickets for The Tuacahn are on sale now, season tickets for The Muny are now available, single tickets will go on sale 2^nd June at the links provided. I hope that I’ll be able to follow both productions as well as I followed 5^th Avenue’s production last year, but whatever happens I will at the very least report the news from around the net as quickly as I can (and for that I owe a great deal to the people at Aladdin Central who have been a fantastic help over the last year).

James Monroe Iglehart as Genie, Photo by Chris Bennion

Last January I did a post on my 3 wishes for the show (assuming Broadway was out of the question). I wished for an Seattle Cast Recording, an official Disney Theatrical produced tour and a DVD of the Seattle production. At least I acknowledged how crazy the last one was!! Of course none of these wishes have come true yet. I still hold on to the hope that Disney will release a Seattle Cast Album. I know they never did a studio recording but I’m 99.9% certain that the show was recorded for archival and reference purposes and with today’s technology I’m sure the sound quality would be good enough to release on CD, plus they had an amazing cast that included Jonathan Freeman as Jafar! Unless they’re planning to get the cast back together and take the show to Broadway in the next year or two there’s really no reason not to do a CD. The sales would certainly be there.

The official tour wish? Well give it time. Alan Menken, Chad Beguelin and Casey Nicholaw had 3 days of meetings regarding the show last November. This was almost certainly to discuss (and implement?) the next round of developments for the show before the regional productions later this year (and Europe in the not too distant future). Maybe I’m reading too much into this (and I’ll be the first to admit a lack of knowledge on how things work behind the scenes in the world of musical theatre) but I’m viewing Casey Nicholaw’s involvement as a very positive sign that Disney could (and I really want to emphasis the could here, this may be nothing more than me being overly optimistic) be looking at doing more with the show than simply licensing it out to various professional and amateur groups. If after the Seattle run Disney Theatrical feel that some tweaking is needed to perfect the show then I can completely understand Alan Menken and Chad Beguelin being brought back in as they are the writers and any script changes really needs their input. Though he was involved with the script of the original production, Casey’s involvement suggest, to me, that something more could be a possibility. The Seattle production was done as a pilot, a blueprint for lack of a better word, to show how the show should be done. Any future regional productions (including those coming this year) will be done by new directors. They will be based on the blueprint of the Seattle show, but it is also likely that they will make certain adjustments based on their own vision of the show, the venue, their budget etc. So to bring Casey Nicholaw back for this round of developments suggests that there is at leastsome hope of Disney Theatrical doing their own production of Aladdin: The New Stage Musical in the not too distant future. Whether this is a tour (the domain www.aladdinontour.com was registered by Disney back in 2010) or maybe even Broadway remains to be seen. Of course to keep this in perspective it could simply be that Disney and Casey wanted to alter the blueprint of the show before it went out to the regional directors.

Third wish? Never gonna happen, especially if Disney are even remotely considering the idea of an official tour or Broadway run. But fingers crossed for a special feature about the Seattle production on the 20^th Anniversary edition of the film rumoured to be coming out this year!

In all honesty, as nice as those wishes were, thanks to 5^th Avenue my Aladdin wishes were more than fulfilled last year, and thanks to an amazing woman saying "I do", all my personal dreams came true as well. Last year was an amazing year for me, I hope it was for all of you as well. Here’s hoping this year will be even better. Now I just need to work out what makes a good first anniversary present... I hear there’s a really nice spa resort in Utah that’s just round the corner from an outdoor amphitheatre...

Street Rats on Three!

Photo courtesy of Brandon O'Neill

Today I am very honoured to be able to present an interview with Brandon O'Neill.  Brandon has been extremely busy since originating the role of Kassim in Aladdin: The New Stage Musical last summer, playing the dual role of Mac and Kenneth Ormiston in Saving Aimee and recently concluding his run as Prince Christoper in Cinderella (both at 5th Avenue), and has very kindly taken the time to answer some questions about his career and his time as Kassim.

How did you originally get into musical theatre, and who (or what) would you say have been your biggest influences?

I got into musical theatre on accident. I was a musician first. I moved to Seattle from my hometown of Spokane, WA looking to meet other musicians and start a new band. The first guy I met was a pianist and composer named Rob Knopp who told me he was writing a grunge era rock opera called "Diana Moves". I had no idea what a rock opera was. He invited to sing on the demo recording and then we ended up doing several live readings of the piece around town.  I was noticed by several casting directors- including the then Artistic Director at the Village Theatre - Brian Yorkey (Tony Award and Pulizter Prize for "Next to Normal") He encouraged me to give this theatre thing a shot. I listened and within a year I was full time.

As far as influences, musically speaking, they all lie outside of theatre. Artists like Donny Hathaway, Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, Fred Hammond and Bobby McFerrin are big. Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson are up there as well. As far as acting goes- I always find myself intrigued with guys like Robert Downey Jr., Edward Norton, and Kevin Spacey- men who can transform themselves on screen. The only influences I really have in the theatre are the incredible actors I've had the pleasure of working with over the years. Seattle powerhouses like Allen Fitzpatrick, David Pichette, Peter Crook, Anne Allgood, Amy Thone, and Timothy McCuen Piggee among others.

Do you remember Aladdin from its original release? Were you a fan of the film before you got the part?

I absolutely remember Aladdin! He was a Disney hero who kinda looked like me:) I remember trying to do all the voices along with the Genie. And who didn't love Abu?

How did you come to be involved in the Seattle production and what was the audition process like?

Initially, I was officially "unavailable" to audition for Aladdin. I had already been cast as Sky Masterson in the 5th Avenue's production of Guys and Dolls which conflicted with the Aladdin schedule. Granted, a good problem to have, but I was SUPER bummed to not get a shot at a show I was at least "ethnically right" for. (ha ha). The casting director at the 5th was kind enough to let me be the "Reader" in the auditions so at least I could meet the people at Disney and Tara Rubin Casting. After 4 days of auditions, I had read as all of the principal characters including Jasmine. After the final audition I was asked to leave the room. I was then approached by the casting associate and told that they wanted to audition me. Stunned but willing, I was then given 20 minutes to learn a song. I came back and sang and they asked me to stay for the movement call. I must have done alright.



Brandon O'Neill as Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls



When did you learn you’d been successful and what was your reaction to the news?

I was on a family vacation when I got the call form the 5th about Aladdin. I couldn't believe they had worked something out with Guys and Dolls. It would mean alot of work on my part- double duty- Guys and Dolls performances at night and Aladdin rehearsals during the day. I actually gave it a week of thought before answering. I didn't want my role as Sky Masterson to suffer. I wanted to be sharp and give my best in both endeavors. With some helpful prodding from friends and family- I accepted, and I'm so glad I did.

What’s it like creating a totally "new" character in such a well loved story?

Creating a new character in a well loved story means you always have to keep the story and tone of the world of the play in mind when making your choices. But otherwise, I found great creative freedom in adding depth to what was already written for Kassim. This sense of freedom to create was most definitely nurtured by the director- Casey Nicholaw and Chad Beguelin, the writer. They dared us to come up with new and funny material. It was also vital that the trio had chemistry. It turned out to be a match made in heaven. Brian Gonzales (Babkak) is one of the funniest and bravest actors I've ever worked with and Andrew Keenan Bolger (Omar) simply emits light and talent everywhere he goes. We became inseparable and relied heavily on one another.  A great trust and love was developed over the weeks and we would back each other up with our crazy, stupid ideas. Some of them are permanently written into the script! "STREET RATS ON 3..."

For those of us who can’t make it to Seattle, can you please tell us a bit about Kassim, your approach to the character and his role in the show.

Kassim was written as a streetwise, tough guy with a heart of gold. As part of the trio that replaced Abu, he is at the center of the Narration but he also upholds Abu's mistrust of Aladdin falling for Jasmine. (remembering the scene where Abu bats his eyes at Al and pretends to be Jasmine) Kassim loves the freedom of life on the streets and acts as strategic leader of the 4 Streetrats. They look to him to call the shots, while Aladdin remains the moral leader and central heart and keeps them from too much trouble. Even if he doesn't admit it, Kassim will always give Aladdin's words the most weight.

I wanted to play Kassim as a guy who has seen alot for his age (violence, injustice, heartache, and hunger) but chooses to laugh and live life to the fullest anyway. I kept his world view pretty simple- a fatalism that gives him a foolish sense of invincibility. Life has thrown a lot of crap his way so he doesn't trust many people but those he does trust he loves and protects with fierce loyalty.

Brandon O'Neill as Kassim (right), with Brian Gonzales, James Monroe Iglehart, Andrew Keenan-Bolger and Adam Jacobs

What’s it like working with Alan Menken and bringing to life the lost Howard Ashman songs?

For a man with his resume, Menken is remarkably humble and approachable but I'm not gonna lie, I was in awe anytime he was in the room. His genius is SO apparent. It's truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to do what we did. Bringing songs like "High Adventure" back from the dead and to hear Alan say,  "...that's just how it's supposed to sound." 

You’re a regular at 5^th Avenue, starring in everything from Miss Saigon to Joseph, and you just finished playing the lead in Guys and Dolls before starting Aladdin. How does your experience with Aladdin compare with the other productions you’ve done?

Aladdin may be my all time favorite theatre experience. While the show itself may not have the title of "the perfect musical" like Guys and Dolls, Kassim is probably the most fulfilling role I've ever performed. It just felt "right". On top of that, the cast was exceptional, the music thrilled me every night. I truly hope I get the chance to play the part again.

You’ve just had your official opening night, how’s the show going and how much has it changed since your first preview?

I'll skip this since I'm WAAAAY late. (just so you know- we were changing lyrics everyday -even on opening night)

How do you prepare before a show? Do you have any superstitions or routines that you do before you go on stage each night?

Vocal warm up was a must. We were required to perform in 3 or 4 different singing styles. I also had to perform the Tiger God/Cave of Wonders voice each night so I had to pay close attention to vocal health.

Each night before curtain, I went over the Arabian nights "Bollywood" dance section. Dancing is not my strongest suit and for that number I am DEAD CENTER stage -so I had to be very conscious with my efforts and stay sharp.

What is the most rewarding part of the show for you, and which part do you find most challenging?

Making people laugh was the most satisfying part of the show for me and the "new work" schedule was most challenging.

Looking to the future, do you have any dream roles that you would love to do?

Tons- I haven't been doing this long so my list is long-ish...among others: Sweeney Todd, Billy Bigelow in Carousel, Che in Evita, Aldolpho in Drowsy Chaperone, Kassim on Broadway :)

And finally, looking back over your career so far, do any moments or performances really stand out as something truly special that you’ll always remember?

In 2010 I had the honor of performing songs from the Sondheim canon with the Seattle Symphony Orchestra under the direction of the legendary Marvin Hamlisch. That weekend will forever stand out as a turning point in my career. From that moment forward I set my path deliberately towards success in this business whereas before, I felt as I was just stumbling along. My accidental theatre career found purpose.

Brandon, thank you so much for your time.  I wish you all the best for the future and I hope to see you playing Kassim on Broadway one day soon!

I would also like to once again thank The 5th Avenue Theatre, not only for arranging this interview, but also for all the help and support that they gave me last year.

I'm off to see the World!

Happy New Year!

Where does the time go?  At the end of last year AladdinsGenie at Aladdin Central pointed me in the direction of an article at the Columbia Tribune, but due to work and an extremely busy (and happy) holiday period I've only just got around to posting it!

The majority of the article is about the Broadway transfer of Newsies (which featured Aladdin: The New Stage Musical's own Andrew Keenan-Bolger during its preview run at The Paper Mill Playhouse), but it goes on to list the other productions that Disney Theatrical has "waiting in the wings" which includes;

"a stage adaptation of “Aladdin” is on its way to Europe once it clears another round of development"

Nothing else is known at this time, including who from the original production will be involved in this "next round" of developments or how extensive any changes will be.  But as always I'll be on the look out for any developments and will post updates as soon as I can (much sooner than I posted this, I promise!)

Edit - Not sure how I missed this (think it was when I didn't go on twitter for a few weeks) but last November Alan Menken posted this message;

"Three days of ALADDIN meetings starting today. Back with Casey and Chad. This bouncing between projects is crazy!"

So we know that at least Alan, Casey and Chad are all involved in the next round of developments that will likely be implemented before the regional productions start this summer.

That's all for this post, but I have a very special post coming later this week (Saturday absolute latest) as over the holiday break I received an email from Brandon O'Neill.  Brandon has been extremely busy over the last few months and very kindly spent some of his holiday break answering the interview I sent him about his time in Aladdin.