Episodes

  • Podcast Trailer

    Podcast Trailer
    Jul 15 2024
    Few musicals have captured the hearts of audiences quite like Disney's ALADDIN. But did you know the beloved stage adaptation of the classic animation almost never came to be? This podcast pulls back the curtain on the untold story of ALADDIN's journey from conception to Broadway triumph. Join 11-time Emmy Award winning entertainment journalist for NY1 and NY1OnStage host Frank DiLella on an in-depth exploration that begins with the initial spark of a stage adaptation. We'll delve into the challenges faced during out-of-town tryouts, the unwavering determination to overcome them, and the celebration of reaching over a decade on Broadway – a remarkable feat in the world of musical theatre. This captivating series features exclusive conversations with the original cast and creative team behind ALADDIN including Alan Menken, Casey Nicholaw, James Monroe Iglehart, Adam Jacobs, Courtney Reed, Sonya Balsara, Adi Roy and more as they recount their experiences with the show. Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan, a theatre enthusiast, or simply captivated by the magic of storytelling, this series is a must-listen. Unveil the untold story of ALADDIN and discover the passion, resilience, and drive that created a Broadway sensation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 min
  • #1 - Aladdin from Screen to Stage

    #1 - Aladdin from Screen to Stage
    Jul 15 2024
    Ever wondered how a beloved Disney movie is transformed into a dazzling musical phenomenon? Find out in this first episode on the unlikely journey of ALADDIN to Broadway. Prepare to be surprised as we reveal the challenges that nearly derailed the entire production. Through exclusive interviews with the key players who brought ALADDIN to life, you'll hear firsthand about the journey from Seattle to Toronto, and ultimately, Broadway. Join us as we celebrate the unwavering determination and remarkable collaboration that pushed ALADDIN past every hurdle. We'll sit down with Thomas Schumacher (Producer), Anne Quart (Producer), Casey Nicholaw (Director/Choreographer), Chad Beguelin (Lyricist/Bookwriter), and Alan Menken (Composer). Through their insightful conversations, you'll gain a unique perspective on the creative process, the power of teamwork, and the magic that goes into crafting an enduring Broadway hit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    42 mins
  • #2 - Becoming Aladdin & Jasmine

    #2 - Becoming Aladdin & Jasmine
    Jul 22 2024
    What does it take to bring the iconic roles of Aladdin and Jasmine to life on stage? Join us for an in-depth conversation with Adam Jacobs and Courtney Reed, who created the roles on Broadway, and Adi Roy and Sonya Balsara, who play the roles now. Listen as they share their experiences with these beloved characters, and discover the dedication and joy that fuels these incredible performances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    39 mins
  • #3 - Unleashing Genie

    #3 - Unleashing Genie
    Jul 29 2024
    Genie from Disney's ALADDIN on Broadway is a dazzling, show-stopping powerhouse of a role... but how does a performer bring this larger-than-life character to life, night after night? Join us for a discussion with Tony Award®️ winner James Monroe Iglehart (original Broadway cast Genie), Michael James Scott (current Broadway Genie), and Marcus Martin (North American Tour Genie) as they share their experiences and perspectives on what goes into creating a truly phenomenal Genie. We go beyond the glitz and glam, revealing the dedication, inspiration, and mutual respect that binds these talented performers together with a wish, or two, or three! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    41 mins
  • #4 - The Music of Aladdin

    #4 - The Music of Aladdin
    Aug 5 2024
    The magic of Broadway isn't just about dazzling sets and captivating performances. It's the songs that truly elevate a show, leaving audiences humming melodies long after the curtain falls. This episode takes us through the enchanting music and the lyrics of Disney's ALADDIN, exploring what makes its score unforgettable. We'll explore the unique collaboration between Alan Menken (Composer), Chad Beguelin (Lyricist/Bookwriter), Thomas Schumacher (Producer), Danny Troob (Orchestrator), and Michael Kosarin (Music Supervisor). Their mission: to revisit songs cut from the animated ALADDIN and create brand-new material for the stage production, making ALADDIN’s Broadway score soar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 mins
  • #5 - 10 Years on Broadway

    #5 - 10 Years on Broadway
    Aug 12 2024
    On March 20th, 2024, Disney's ALADDIN marked a monumental achievement: 10 years captivating audiences on Broadway. This episode takes us behind the scenes of the unforgettable anniversary celebration performance, a magical reunion for the original and current cast and creatives. We'll relive the excitement of the exclusive performance with special guests Jonathan Freeman, who originated Jafar in both the animated film and the Broadway production of ALADDIN, Dennis Stowe, the original Jafar understudy who now commands the stage as the iconic villain himself on Broadway, and Don Darryl Rivera, who continues to portray the hilariously conniving Iago after originating the role on Broadway. Also, you'll hear from Casey Nicholaw, Michael James Scott, and more as they relive the moments from the 10th anniversary performance. This is one big finish you won't want to miss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    31 mins
  • Bonus - Celebrating Howard Ashman

    Bonus - Celebrating Howard Ashman
    Jun 17 2025
    The Webby Award-winning podcast THE MAGICAL MAKING OF ALADDIN ON BROADWAY is back with this special episode, paying tribute to the legendary lyricist, Howard Ashman, whose impact on Disney and musical theatre as a whole can still be felt today. Listen to Alan Menken (Composer), Thomas Schumacher (Producer), Danny Troob (Orchestrator), Casey Nicholaw (Director/Choreographer), Jonathan Freeman (original Broadway cast Jafar), and Bill Lauch recount stories of Howard, and share the importance of his work on ALADDIN, all these years later. Hosted by Frank DiLella, this podcast will take you on a journey through the life of the brilliant mind behind the lyrics of THE LITTLE MERMAID, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, ALADDIN, and more. This is more than a tribute—it's a reminder of the power of storytelling, the magic of music, and a legacy that lives on, every night the curtain rises. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    27 mins