No need to search for a magic lamp.
Finding a genie in McMinnville will be as simple as a trip to the Park Theater this weekend.
Three performances of “Aladdin and His Wonderful, Magical Lamp” are set for Friday and Saturday under the direction of Logan Taylor.
“The scenery is exquisite and this is one of the most visually appealing shows I’ve ever done,” said Taylor of the large-scale production which features 65 actors and 15 crew members.
The story is not the Disney version of the popular tale, but it shares many of the main themes. It follows the charismatic Aladdin on his journey to marry Princess Jasmine, an eventful journey filled with obstacles and treachery.
When Aladdin is persuaded to rub the magic lamp under villainous pretenses, he’s greeted with three genies who provide hurdles for him to leap as he tries to find his storybook princess.
Isaiah Banegas plays Aladdin. “He was born and bred at the Cumberland County Playhouse and we’re thrilled to have him here,” said Taylor.
The monkey is played by Dibrell fourth-grader Olivia Jones, while the evil henchman Jamal is played by WCHS freshman Jakob Shockley.
Rounding out the main characters are Ella Hale as Jamal’s evil sister, Halima, and Kara Caten as Princess Jasmine.
Over 200 people auditioned in November for the 65 parts and the group has been practicing since Thanksgiving. Taylor estimates they have logged around 350 practice hours since rehearsals began.
Aladdin has three showings this weekend, Friday at 7 p.m., and Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are available by calling 506-2787 or online at ParkTheaterMcMinnville.com.