Spotlight on 'Aladdin' with Sonya Balsara
As part of a series showcasing long-running Broadway shows, we speak to the performer who stepped into a whole new world by making her debut as Jasmine.
Summary
- Aladdin star Sonya Balsara reflects on her experience in the Broadway musical
- She made her Broadway debut as Princess Jasmine in 2022
- Aladdin opened in 2014 and is now Broadway's 14th-longest-running show
Sonya Balsara didn't need a genie to grant her Broadway wish. The actress came full-circle by making her Broadway debut as Jasmine in Aladdin in 2022, as she'd previously played the princess in a middle-school production of Aladdin Jr.
Her long journey with Aladdin is proof of its staying power. The story of the title character, a street urchin who becomes a prince with a genie's help, has captivated audiences through Disney's 1992 animated film and, since 2014, the musical, now Broadway's 14th-longest-running show of all time. That's thanks to unforgettable songs like "A Whole New World" and "Friend Like Me," but also to the timeless message of being true to yourself: Jasmine and Aladdin each fall in love with the person beneath all the royal riches.
Balsara reflected on her experience of Aladdin and shared a few secrets behind the world of Agrabah. (You'll still wonder how the magic carpet flies when you see the show, though.)
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Why do you think this show has lasted so long on Broadway?
Aladdin on Broadway creates a magnetic stirring of magic, nostalgia, and joy for the audience — from the heart-wrenching score to the epic design to the craft of every person working on stage and behind the scenes. People leave full of joy, and perhaps with the desire to spread that joy as well.
What is the best audience reaction you have seen to the show?
When the carpet first takes flight, there are times when the audience goes completely still, followed by quiet gasps. It's a goosebump-worthy moment for me as a performer.
What is your favorite moment in the show?
It genuinely changes from day to day — right now I love playing the scene on the rooftop with Aladdin. The two characters find a deep understanding of each other even though they come from such different worlds. Allowing the scene to play out with nuance, humor, and tenderness is a delight.
What is a little-known secret about performing in the show?
When we fly on the carpet, Aladdin and I each wear a harness underneath our costumes that we click ourselves in and out of (very secretly!) before we take off and as we land.
What do you hope audiences take away from the show?
The immense power of caring for others and standing up for what you believe is right.
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Photo credit: Aladdin on Broadway. (Photos by Deen van Meer and Matthew Murphy)
Frequently asked questions
What is Aladdin about?
Based on the beloved animated Disney movie, the Aladdin musical features romance and adventure as a Genie helps Aladdin win Princess Jasmine's affection. Don't miss this energetic, dazzling spectacle that will delight audiences of all ages. Rekindle the magic and travel to a whole new world when you get tickets to this Tony-nominated musical.
Where is Aladdin playing?
Aladdin is playing at New Amsterdam Theatre. The theatre is located at 214 West 42nd Street (between 7th and 8th Avenue), New York, 10036.
How long is Aladdin?
The running time of Aladdin is 2hr 30min. Incl. 1 intermission.
What's the age requirement for Aladdin?
The recommended age for Aladdin is Ages 6+..
How do you book tickets for Aladdin?
Book tickets for Aladdin on New York Theatre Guide.
Who wrote Aladdin on Broadway?
Chad Beguelin wrote the script for the Aladdin musical, adapted from the 1992 movie's screenplay by Ron Clements, John Musker, Ted Elliott, and Terry Rossio. Alan Menken composed the score for both the film and the musical, and lyrics for the various songs are by Howard Ashman, Tim Rice, and Beguelin.
What songs are in Aladdin on Broadway?
Aladdin on Broadway has 18 musical numbers. These include songs from the film, like "A Whole New World" and "Friend Like Me"; songs cut from the film, like "Proud of Your Boy"; and songs written for the musical, like "Diamond in the Rough."
Is Aladdin on Broadway appropriate for kids?
Aladdin is appropriate for kids of all ages, just like the Disney movie the show is based on. Please note that children 4 and younger are not permitted in Broadway theatres.
Does the Aladdin musical change anything from the Disney movie?
Aladdin added more songs that weren't in the original movie, and Aladdin has a trio of friends as his sidekicks instead of the monkey Abu. Otherwise, the plot and characters from the movie are mostly the same.
Who directed Aladdin on Broadway?
Two-time Tony Award winner directed and choreographed Aladdin. He earned a Tony nomination for Aladdin and has won for Some Like It Hot and The Book of Mormon.
When did Aladdin open on Broadway?
Aladdin opened on Broadway in February 2014 and is now the 17th-longest-running Broadway show of all time with more than 3,000 performances.
Is the Aladdin musical good?
New York Theatre Guide's four-star review praised Aladdin as "extremely impressive" and "the most vibrantly colourful of all Disney Theatrical's offerings to date." The show's staying power and appeal to all ages is clear, making Aladdin a great family-friendly show.
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