Casting

The Lamp Salesman is a likeable fast-talking vendor who serves as the principal storyteller in our show. The student playing this role should be comfortable onstage and have a clear speaking voice. Since this is not a major singing role, it is ideal for a strong actor still developing his or her singing skills.

Aladdin is a juggler who becomes the good-hearted, diamond-in-the-rough street rat. Aladdin carries most of the show, so look for your best singer and most sympathetic actor to fill this role. The audience should enjoy Aladdin's adventures and root for him to save the day.

Jasmine is a street performer who dons a tiara to play the feisty and rebellious Princess. Jasmine embodies the characteristics of a great leader. Cast a young lady with a strong singing voice and solid acting skills, who can show strength in her beliefs and overcome the spoiled brat stereotype of a princess.

Jafar is a shady fakir who becomes the the sinister vizier to the Sultan. The villain of the story, Jafar is ruthless in his pursuit of power. Cast a performer who is able to find variety of ways to portray evil (subtle, menacing, over-the-top, etc.). Although Jafar sings at the end of the show, the song can be easily spoken in rhythm, so cast the role based on your student's ability to take command of the stage.

The Sultan is the aloof Toy Vendor who transforms into the doddering ruler of Agrabah. The Sultan remains blissfully unaware of Jafar's nefarious ambitions. The Sultan feels certain that his actions protect his daughter and uphold the law. This non-singing role is perfect for an actor who can convincingly play a dizzy yet doting father.

Iago is a Parrot Vendor who becomes Jafar's wise-cracking, sidekick parrot. The role can be played by a boy or a girl, and is perfect for someone who can move well, and an actor who can provide some non-human gestures. Cast a performer who works well with your Jafar to maximize any comic moments.

The Tiger God guards the lamp and the Cave of Wonders. The Tiger God is an all powerful presence yet a tad bit sassy to keep it interesting. Cast a performer who has good timing and is comfortable showing strength with his or her voice.

Genie is the magical spirit of the lamp. Funny, fast-talking and quick-witted, this character is a chameleon who uses improvisational skills to help his master. This performer (male or female) should be a great actor with impeccable comic timing. The Genie doesn't need to be a trained singer as long as he or she knows how to keep time and sell a song.

The Junior Djinn are the "spirits of the cave" who help execute the magic of the story. They have an aura of mystery during the magical moments of the show, but they can perform like true Broadway stars during their big song with the Genie. You can cast as many Junior Djinn as you like depending on the skills of your performers and your specific needs to create the Genie's magic. Look for good singers who move well and can show expression on their faces.

Avis, a flying carpet, will work best when treated like a character in the show. Rather than a rug on wheels, Avis should be spry - a puppet manipulated by actors, or even an actor in a carpet costume. Look at the "Props" section on page 10 of your Director's Guide for suggestions on creating your Avis.

The Ensemble members will portray the Marketplace Hawkers, Gymnasts, Wrestlers, Bread Sellers, Fishmongers, Belly Dancers, Beggars, Cloth Vendors, Puppeteers, Royal Guards, Royal Trumpeters, etc. There are many featured solo speaking and singing lines from the ensemble, so cast as many students as you can handle, and then assign solos based on the strength of each performer.