The breadth of Disney Musicals hitting stages around the world right now is somewhat overwhelming, but when you take a 90s classic and recreate that buzz, that's when Disney magic takes over.

Aladdin is a musical based on the film of the same name which is one of Disney's most successful movie franchises. Winning two Oscars and five Grammy's for its soundtrack alone, it was the biggest grossing film of 1992 and still remains incredibly popular today.

That popularity is evidenced by a sold out auditorium which was full of families - parents who remember the story from their childhood bringing their kids, some for their first theatrical experience, and Aladdin definitely doesn't disappoint.

The story follows the life of a young "diamond in the rough" street urchin, who dreams of a better life. Tricked into entering the cave of wonders by the evil Jafar, Aladdin discovers a magical lamp containing a powerful Genie who grants him three wishes. With the help of the Genie, Aladdin transforms into a prince to win the heart of Princess Jasmine. However, Jafar seeks to control the lamp and take over the kingdom of Agrabah. Aladdin must use his wit and courage to stop Jafar, stay true to himself, and earn Jasmine’s love. 

The first thing that stands out is the set. Comparatively simple in its structure, and coupled with some sterling work from the ensemble, we're immediately transported to Agrabah. What also stands out is the soundtrack. Encompassing the songs that were such a hit on the big screen and including a handful of new ones written for the show, this is a jukebox that gives us laughs, emotion and a beautiful accompaniment to a stellar cast.

Gavin Adams and Desmonda Cathabel play Aladdin and Jasmine respectively, and bring the chemistry and empowerment we were expecting. Adams spends most of the show jumping from carts onto buildings and piloting flying carpets, whilst Cathabel gives us a Jasmine who isn't afraid to stand up for herself.

Adam Strong as Jafar and Angelo Paragoso as his sidekick, Iago bring a panto-esque nature to our token villains of the piece - and that's very welcome. Jafar in particular is renowned for his dry sense of humour, something Strong has in droves and Paragoso's slapstick style of humour is just sublime.

However, for me, the show belonged to Yeukayi Ushe as the Genie. Now, let's be frank - Robin Williams' interpretation of the role is one of the greatest voiceover pieces in cinematic history - and his rendition of Friend Like Me is one of the greatest Disney songs ever so anyone stepping into the blue velvet has a lot to live up to.

In terms of the stage musical, we've also had some incredible performers popping out of the lamp - but Ushe is up there with the best of them. His performance of that song was beautifully elongated, went on forever and just delivered audible joy from the first note. The anticipation was palpable and the result gave us a full 45 seconds of applause which could easily still be going now if the show had let it.

And even more-so, Ushe's humour is so unbelievably on point. His retorts sound improvised and just land so perfectly it begins to feel impossible that any human can be capable of the standard of performance we received this evening.

However it's also pertinent to say that all of our principals are supported by a BRILLIANT ensemble (who seem to change costume every 30 seconds!) who help to recreate the Disney magic that the audience were begging for - and their response showed just how well that was done.

Disney's Aladdin plays at Birmingham Hippodrome until Sunday 3rd November 2024. For tickets, visit birminghamhippodrome.com.