By Jeanni Ritchie
Last month, Pineville High Theatre took audiences on a colorful journey to Agrabah with its lively production of Aladdin Jr., based on the Disney classic that played in my house no less than 842 times in the ‘90s.
The updated stage show was the basis for the 2019 live-action adaptation which saw Aladdin’s pet monkey Abu replaced with three friends — Babkak (Nathalie Buller), Omar (Keira Bowie), and Kassim (Michelle Lundin). The trio provided much comic relief throughout the show.
Jacob Jones brought an easy charisma to the title role of Aladdin, capturing the street-smart charm that makes the character so endearing. The cast surrounding him kept the momentum lively, particularly in the large production numbers, like One Jump Ahead.
Jessica Janagan (Jasmine) brought headstrong heart to the stage while diabolical Jafar was played to perfection by Chason Hernandez. Jafar and Iago — the delightful Havha Stroderd — strutted around Aladdin in Prince Ali (Reprise). This is my all-time favorite Disney song — I couldn’t help but sing along!
Ayiana Canoe was a triple threat — singing, acting and dancing — as the all-powerful Genie in an expanded version of Friend Like Me that also sampled songs from other beloved Disney classics like Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid.
Directed by Kristopher Prestridge, everyone in the cast — from the Agrabahns to the crying jilted suitor — presented incredible performances. The cast was having fun — and ultimately, isn’t that what it’s all about?
Next up for PHS Theatre is Chitty Chitty Bang Bang April 23-26.
