‘Aladdin’ bringing magic to Des Moines Civic Center beginning Wednesday

A whole new world of wonder, magic and music will all be flying onto the stage in the latest installment of the Willis Broadway Series at the Des Moines Civic Center on Wednesday.

The smash Broadway musical “Disney’s Aladdin,” based on the 1992 animated film, will be entertaining Iowans from Nov. 28-Dec. 9. The musical stars a talented cast including Jerald Vincent, a veteran of the stage and screen, who portrays the Sultan.

“Even though it is a story told of old the themes are still up to date and transcend time,” Vincent said. “There is something in there for everyone. From the adult witty humor to a point of view that younger audiences really get enmeshed in as well.”

Vincent said being a part of a Disney production is a treat and a thrill because of the production value and magic that leaps from the silver screen to the stage.

“Disney is so good at what they do. I mean they have Alan Menken and Casey Nicholaw. From the direction and choreography to sound and lighting to the sets, they have the most incredible craftsmen on this show,” he said. “We truly have the best people putting this together which allows us to truly take the audience into another world.”

With Disney ingenuity behind the production, Vincent said it is a true masterpiece and a breathtaking experience for the audience.

“The production and costumes on the show are amazing. There are over 350 costumes in the show. It is just eye popping,” he said. “Then there is the magic carpet. As the magic carpet takes off you’ll be thinking ‘Oh my god, how did they do that?’ It’s amazing. It’s amazing theater magic.”

While the magic carpet may take audiences on a ride, Vincent said there is one scene that even cast members can’t wait to see.

“Our genie on this show Michael James Scott is just fantastic,” he said. “The number ‘Friend Like Me’ is a showstopper. My scene is directly after that scene, and I come down from my dressing room early to see this number and see the audience reaction from this number. It is amazing to witness and see how much the audience is enjoying themselves.”

“Aladdin” opens at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, with additional 14 additional shows including matinees through Dec. 9. Tickets are available now at DMPA.org, the Civic Center Ticket office or by calling 515-246-2300.

Vincent said he encourages everyone to come out and enjoy an evening of theater

“The show’s themes are about family, finding true love, becoming who you really are — all very human themes. Whether it is Iowa or fictional Agrabah we are all in search for the same thing. It is a show everyone can relate to,” Vincent said. “Whether you are a first time theater goer or a season ticketholder you cannot get a better show than this.”