Aladdin Jr.

After two and a half years, Gosford Musical Society Juniors have exploded back onto the stage with the ever-popular Aladdin Jr. 

This is the company's second time staging the show. The original in the mid-2000s starred artists who have gone on to star in Hi-5, and major productions such as Harry Potter And The Cursed Child - and it could be that some of the young artists in this latest production will be going on to similar professional careers too.

Scott Goodacre makes his directorial debut, and it's a knockout. His seasoned team supports him well, with musical direction by Vivienne McLaren and choreography by Kristy Kirkman and Lauren Miller.  

This production is a dazzling feast for the eyes, backed up by some incredible local emerging talent. A design highlight of the show are the costumes by Kylie Preston.

The titular role of Aladdin is played by year 9 student Luke Johnston - he brings a beautiful gentleness to the performance. Sophia Haydar's Jasmine is refined and powerful. Together, they carry the show beautifully. 

Scotia Emmett makes Genie her own, while still giving a subtle nod to the iconic performers who've played the role before her both locally and globally. 

Cody Swansbra brings delightful wickedness to Jafar, as does Blake Skafte-Grieve as Iago. Max Lindhardt-Ward is well cast as the well-meaning Sultan.

The noticeable difference between the film and this stage adaption is the introduction of six new characters - a "trio" of friends for both Aladdin and Jasmine. John Summerell, Fergus Paterson, and Charlotte Page are hilarious as Aladdin's street smart friends, Babkak, Omar, and Kassim. Likewise, Mia Cross, Ashleigh Skidmore, and Charlotte Gardiner are brilliant as Isir, Manal, and Rajah; their performance of the new song 'These Place Walls' is one of the show's biggest highlights.

Gosford Musical Society Juniors are back, shining a spotlight on local talent. While the script is a little disjointed and some new numbers feel out of place, the entire cast doesn't falter in their energy once. This production is a testament to their commitment to young artists. It's something the whole family can enjoy.

Joshua Maxwell