Lovers of musical theatre had their wishes granted when Aureus School in Didcot staged a magical production of Aladdin the Musical Jr.
Some 50 students from Years 7 to 11 took part in the retelling of the popular classic, which features such well-known characters as the Sultan, the Genie, and Jasmine, as well as titular hero Aladdin himself.
“Students at Aureus School lit up the stage with a vibrant and heart-warming production of Aladdin the Musical, leaving audiences cheering, laughing, and even wiping away an occasional tear,” said Amy King, Head of Performing Arts at Aureus, which is part of the GLF Schools Multi-Academy Trust.
“The show, performed by students from across the school, was the result of months of dedication, including weekly evening rehearsals and weekend sessions as opening night approached.
“Their hard work paid off, with a production filled with colourful choreography, powerful singing, and confident acting that brought the magical world of Agrabah to life.”
Among those treading the boards were Kidest Fikremariam-Gordon from Year 11 as Aladdin; Teodora Ticanet, also Year 11, as Jasmine; and fellow Year 11 student Queen-Zara Amoah as the Sultan; while India Bennett in Year 9 played Jafar; and Millie Campbell-Huxley in Year 9 took the role of Iago.
“The cast were full of energy since the very first read-through,” continued Miss King, who directed and choreographed the show, with the support of Aureus Head of Music, Alison Burbage, Assistant Head Teacher Hannah Powell, and Head of Art Stephanie Robins.
“Their excitement has been infectious, and they’ve shown real determination to put on the best show possible.
“In addition to the main cast, students also supported the production through a variety of backstage and technician roles, including props, costume and wardrobe, lighting, sound, stage management, front-of-house, and more.”
Performing a show in the run-up to Christmas has become an annual event at Aureus, with previous productions including The Greatest Showman, The Wizard of Oz, Matilda, and High School Musical.
This year, evening performances on 10 and 12 December played to collective audiences of more than 300 people, while two matinees were enjoyed by 400 primary school children from the area.
“Productions like this are incredibly valuable for our students,” added Miss King. “They help build confidence, nurture creativity, encourage teamwork, develop discipline and responsibility, and provide a wonderful opportunity for students to showcase their talents both on and off stage.
“Staff say opportunities like these help students gain confidence, develop communication skills, make lasting friendships, and express themselves in ways that academic lessons alone can’t always offer.
“The arts make a real difference to students’ lives. They learn resilience, empathy, and responsibility – and they discover talents they never knew they had.”
