Jasmine, the princess we met over 25 years ago in Disney’s 1992 Academy Award-winning film Aladdin, continues to inspire young women today. Allison Martin of El Diamante High School, who will play the independent princess in the upcoming Theatre Company production of Aladdin Jr., said that she appreciates the character. “She’s definitely a strong and independent young woman,” she said. Perhaps the experience of playing Jasmine has rubbed off on her. “I have definitely become more of an outgoing people person since being involved in Theatre Company productions,” she smiled.
Aladdin Jr. is based on 2014 hit Broadway show about Aladdin, a street performer and thief who learns a moral lesson that his true worth lies deep within. Aladdin and his three friends, Babkak, Omar, and Kassim, are down on their luck until Aladdin discovers a magic lamp and the genie who has the power to grant three wishes.
Wanting to earn the respect of Princess Jasmine, Aladdin embarks on an adventure that will test his will and his moral character. With expanded characters, new songs, and more thrills, Aladdin Jr. is sure to delight Tulare County audiences this month.
The production has a huge cast of 100 students with another 40 young performers in a preshow production. The production also features a flying character. “Directing this show has always been a dream of mine,” said Theatre Company director Bethany Rader. “I loved the idea of picking a show where one of the lead characters is a strong woman who knows what she wants,” she said. “Jasmine is a good example for girls these days.”
Mt. Whitney High School student Job Whetstone plays Aladdin and Redwood High School student Parker Chalabian plays Genie. “Aladdin has been fun to play,” said Job. “He’s a complicated mix of a deceitful thief and the hero with a heart of gold at the same time.”
For more information on Aladdin Jr., call the Theatre Company at (559) 651-1482. All performances take place at the L.J. Williams Theater, 1001 W. Main St., Visalia.
Show Times
Evening Shows (7:00pm):
November 15, 16, 17
Matinee Show (2:00pm): November 17
Show Ticket Information
$10 preshow “Meet the Characters” passes
$12 general admission
$20 reserved seating
Tickets available at Visalia TCOE locations:
6200 S. Mooney Blvd. and 7000 Doe Ave.
Monday through Friday during normal business hours.
Cash or check only.
Tickets may also be purchased at the door.