Week 1

Aladdin – Josiah Smith  

Jasmine – Zoey Favata

Genie – Dillon Fryer

Jafar – Arison McCulty

Iago – Noelle Nemcheka

Sultan – Riley Nichols

Kassim – Grace Navarre

Babkak – Alyssa Johnson

Omar – Jaeden Krupper

Rajah – Izzy Keslar

Isir – Alexis Piper

Manal – Madison Sano

Razoul – Emily Tinkey

Week 2

Aladdin – Vincent Steffey

Jasmine – Mya Favata

Genie – Olivia Johnson

Jafar – Talia Serge

Iago – Sofia Serge

Sultan – Sierra Nichols

Kassim – McKenzie Arone

Babkak – Taryn Yutzy

Omar – Sydnee McCracken

Rajah – Hailey Stashak

Isir – Alexis Piper

Manal – Lily Haverly

Razoul – Emily Tinkey

The curtains come up, and before you realize it, it’s showtime. For some students at Greater Latrobe this exciting moment is just around the corner.

On March 3, students from the Greater Latrobe School District began practice for Aladdin Jr. at the Diamond Theatre of Ligonier, myself included.

Greater Latrobe students, Mya Favata, Sydnee McCracken, Sofia Serge, and Hailey Stashack have all expanded their love of theatre into this production.

The Diamond Theatre of Ligonier announced that it would be doing Aladdin Jr. as their next show in honor of the upcoming movie remake. Aladdin Jr. is a twist on the 1992 Disney classic, Aladdin.

The musical follows the movie plot, focusing on a poor commoner named Aladdin. Meanwhile, Princess Jasmine(Favata) longs for a life beyond her palace walls, and there seems to be many more possibilities when she meets Aladdin in the streets. Aladdin later finds a lamp containing an all powerful genie, which Aladdin plans to use to finally make his mother proud, and impress Jasmine. However, the evil Jafar and Iago(Serge) are also after the lamp, and will stop at nothing to get it. The musical brings lots of adventure and singing in this one of a kind show.

I play Iago, the sidekick to the evil Jafar. For me, this musical has been a lot of fun, but also a lot of hard work. I’ve done many other plays and musicals, but this one has brought many new challenges. I’ve never played a villain before, and so far I’ve had a lot of fun taking on this totally opposite personality from me, but I think that was also one of the most difficult parts. It’s fun but challenging being mean to and giving all of my cast mates dirty looks, but in the end it all works out and everyone is able to laugh about it. I’ve also loved all the amazing friendships that I’ve made, which is one of the best parts. Since this wasn’t my first show with them I already knew a lot of the people, but I’ve got to meet so many new people and make so many amazing new friendships.

Mya Favata who plays Jasmine also said, “I’m playing the role of Jasmine, the strong-willed and determined princess and so far it’s been a lot of fun. I’ve really loved acting with my friends and meeting new people. I really enjoy the cast and love making memories with them. Everyone is so nice and supportive of each other. Singing and acting has always been a huge part of my life. I’ve been involved with the Diamond theatre for 3 years and hope to be a part of it for many more.”

Aladdin Jr. will be held at the Diamond Theatre of Ligonier for two weekends, May 24 @ 6, May 25 @ 3 & 6, May 26 @ 3, May 31 @ 6, June 1 @ 3 & 6, and June 2 @ 3. Aladdin tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for kids that are 10 and under, and kids 2 and under are free. Sweet Seats for the shows are an additional $4 on top of ticket prices. Come support your community!