There is an old saying that you can’t put the toothpaste back in the tube.  Another form of the saying is ‘you can’t put the Genie back in the bottle…”  and that is something that the fans who were so thoroughly entertained at The Muny’s performance of ‘Aladdin’ are grateful for.

That’s because John Tartaqlia, who plays the high-energy Genie brings energy to the role, that enables the production to transcend being solely a production for children to one that typifies the energy and standards of professionalism that are characterizing this year’s Muny shows.  I can’t recall the last time I saw anyone make an entry from the audience—riding a motorcycle.

There is a synergy in this production, made possible by so capably creating standards of production quality and outstanding talent.  That is why it was so wonderful to see Ken Page given the opportunity to excel in his role as the Sultan. 

Page, who is virtually a legend at The Muny was, as always, in top form, and, I am sure, that for the many children in the audience, they will as they grow older, always be able to recall what is likely the first time they saw Page.  It is this type of relationship with audiences that has made The Muny the oldest outdoor theater in the country, as people build memories over the years.

It’s a challenge to be the title character in such a production, and one must avoid being overwhelmed by the vast talent and production qualities . Robin DeJesus as Aladdin is more than adequate for the challenge.  He is a charming Aladdin, combining a great voice with an almost boyish-charm that wins the audience, so much so that I believe Aladdin will be a deserving choice of many as one of the top productions of the season.

It was a great evening—and, for those who have not yet been at the The (new, exciting) Muny, What are your waiting for?  There is still an exciting season, and the pace, style, quality  and energy being exhibited in all aspects of the venerable Muny, will set a standard for years to come.  You shouldn’t miss it!