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New stage musical version of Disney’s “Aladdin” to premiere this summer at Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theatre

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12 years ago

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cid:3377525944_15058157

 

The 5th Avenue Theatre Presents

the Premiere of

Disney’s Aladdin, a New Stage Musical
Stage Version of Disney Film to
Close 2010-11 Season  

SEATTLE, WA–The 5th Avenue
Theatre is proud to announce that it will produce the premiere of Aladdin,
a new stage musical adapted from Disney’s 1992 animated feature film. Aladdin,
featuring the Academy Award®-winning score by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman
and Tim Rice, previews on July 7 and runs until July 31, 2011.  The show
replaces Oklahoma!, which will be postponed until the 2011-2012 season.

Aladdin will feature a cast and creative team drawn from Seattle and
Broadway. Several 5th Avenue veterans return for the production, including
acclaimed director and choreographer Casey Nicholaw, who received his first
professional choreography gig at The 5th Avenue Theatre (The Prince and the
Pauper, 2001) and where he later choreographed My Fair Lady (2002).
On Broadway, Nicholaw won praise as the choreographer of Spamalot, and
director/choreographer of The Drowsy Chaperone and Elf: The
Broadway Musical, garnering three Tony nominations for his work.
 
Music for Aladdin is by Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast, The
Little Mermaid, Tangled), who has won a total of eight Oscars, more than
any living person; lyrics are by the late Howard Ashman (Little Shop of
Horrors, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid) and
Tim Rice (Jesus Christ Superstar, Chess, The Lion King).
Librettist Chad Beguelin wrote the books for The Rhythm Club, Wicked
City and The Wedding Singer, which premiered at The 5th Avenue in
2006.  Menken and Beguelin contribute additional lyrics.

 

This
new Aladdin incorporates all of the beloved songs from the film’s
Oscar®-winning score plus never-before heard Menken/Ashman songs restored
from early drafts of the score.  It marks a return to the authors’
original vision:  a loving homage to the Hope-Crosby road pictures with a
score invoking the jazz sound of stars like Cab Calloway and Fats Waller. 

 

Other
confirmed production artists include set designer Anna Louizos (White
Christmas, In The Heights), Tony Award®-winning costume designer Gregg
Barnes (The Drowsy Chaperone, Mame at The 5th Avenue), Tony®
winning lighting designer Natasha Katz (Beauty and the Beast, Aida),
dance arranger Glen Kelly (The Producers, Drowsy Chaperone) and
musical supervisor Michael Kosarin (Beauty and the Beast, Sister Act).
 
“New
musicals have become a large part of the mission of The 5th Avenue Theatre and
we are thrilled that
Disney has selected our theatre to produce the premiere of this new work they
have developed.  I
am especially thrilled to have Casey back here where his amazing career first
got started,”
says The 5th’s Artistic Director and Executive Producer David Armstrong. 

 

Steve
Fickinger, VP Creative Development and Licensing for Disney Theatrical
Productions, said, “Responding to extraordinary demand from our licensing
customers for a full length, two-act version of Aladdin, Alan Menken
brought to us the idea of returning to the highly theatrical vision he and
Howard Ashman had originally conceived but that had proved unsuitable for the
film.  Our goal with this pilot production of Aladdin at The 5th
Avenue is to launch this title for inclusion in our innovative professional and
regional theatre licensing catalog.”

 

The
animated film Aladdin was released by Disney in 1992 and was a critical
and box office smash, grossing over $504 million worldwide and becoming the
highest-grossing film of the year. Adapted from Arabian folktales and the
famous “One Thousand and One Nights,” Aladdin tells the
story of a resourceful young man who dares to woo a princess with the help of
an all-powerful Genie. The film introduced the hit songs “Friend Like
Me” and “A Whole New World,” which won one of the
film’s two Academy Awards® as Best Original Song.  Part
of the “Disney Renaissance” that began with 1989’s The
Little Mermaid, the film Aladdin was praised for its witty script
and tuneful, eclectic score.


The 5th Avenue production of Oklahoma! is being postponed until the
2011-12 season, dates to be announced. Ticket holders for Oklahoma! will
be receiving replacement tickets for Aladdin. Tickets for Aladdin are
available by calling 206-625-1900/toll-free 888-5TH-4TIX (584-4849), at the box
office at 1308 5th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101, or online at 5thavenue.org.
 
Special thanks to The 5th’s 2010-11 season co-sponsors Safeco Insurance
and US Bank.
 
More about The 5th Avenue Theatre
The 5th Avenue Theatre is one of the nation’s premier incubators for
new musicals. In the past decade, it has produced ten premiere musicals, four
of which have been produced on Broadway, and two of which have won Tony Awards
for “Best Musical” (Hairspray and Memphis). The 5th
Avenue Theatre is also known for its world class, critically acclaimed
productions of musicals chosen from both the contemporary canon and the Golden
Age of Broadway.
 
Unique in its Chinese-inspired design, this exquisite theater opened in 1926 as
a venue for vaudeville and film. In 1980, the non-profit 5th Avenue Theatre
began producing and presenting top-quality live musical theater. Today, under
the leadership of Executive Producer and Artistic Director David Armstrong,
Managing Director Bernadine Griffin and Producing Director Bill Berry, The 5th
Avenue Theatre attracts an annual attendance of more than 287,000 and ranks
among the nation’s largest and most respected musical theater companies.
 
In addition to its main stage productions, The 5th Avenue Theatre is also
committed to encouraging the next generation of theatergoers through its
extensive Educational Outreach Program which includes: The Adventure Musical
Theatre Touring Company, The 5th Avenue High School Musical Theatre Awards, the
Student Matinee Program, and Spotlight Nights. For more information about The
5th Avenue Theatre, its season and its programs, please visit 5thavenue.org
<http://www.5thavenue.org>.

 

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Jim Hill is an entertainment writer who has specialized in covering The Walt Disney Company for nearly 40 years now. Over that time, he has interviewed hundreds of animators, actors, and Imagineers -- many of whom have shared behind-the-scenes stories with Mr. Hill about how the Mouse House really works. In addition to the 4000+ articles Jim has written for the Web, he also co-hosts a trio of popular podcasts: “Disney Dish with Len Testa,” “Fine Tooning with Drew Taylor” and “Marvel US Disney with Aaron Adams.” Mr. Hill makes his home in Southern New Hampshire with his lovely wife Nancy and two obnoxious cats, Ginger & Betty.

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News & Press Releases

Star Wars Spoof: Space Robots in Outer Space Ep X: Battle for the Halcyon: The Last Starcruiser

Published

4 weeks ago

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May 4, 2023

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Sure, Star Wars is cool and all. But let’s not forget about that other multi-part sci-fi cinematic spectacular, “Space Robots in Outer Space.” In fact, Hank Lonely (Hollywood’s ultimate hyphenate — actor / producer / director / writer / guy who makes sure the Porto Potties are kept squeaky-clean) just announced that there’ll soon be a 10th installment of this … Well, not exactly beloved. How about we say “admired from afar” instead? … series coming to a theater near you. In fact, here’s the highly anticipated teaser trailer for that project. Which is supposed to be titled “Space Robots in Outer Space X — Battle for the Halycon: The Last Starcruiser.”

Okay. Now the real story … In honor of Star Wars Day (i.e., May 4th. As in “May the Fourth Be With You”), Len Testa and I are sharing something that we produced with the help of all the nice folks who joined us last month aboard the Halycon.

We turned the Galactic Starcruiser as well as Black Spire Outpost into the backdrop for an affectionate send-up of all things Stars Wars. We hope that you (more importantly, the legal team at Lucasfilm) take this faux trailer in the spirit with which it was intended. Special thanks to Aaron Adams for so skillfully stitching all of this footage together. Also thanks to the team at Storybook Destinations, Touring Plans and the talented cast & crew aboard the “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser” for making this “Disney Dish” fan event so memorable.

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News & Press Releases

Disney’s New Trailer Reveals How Ralph & Vanellope Get to the Internet in “Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2”

Published

5 years ago

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June 4, 2018

By

Wreck-It Ralph 2

When “Wreck-It Ralph” opened on Nov. 2, 2012, it turned in the highest opening weekend ever for a Walt Disney Animation Studios film at the time of release. Now Disney is hoping Ralph will not only break the Internet but the 2018 Thanksgiving boxoffice records as well.

The film re-teams the original director, producer and co-writer behind “Wreck-It Ralph.”  The screenplay is currently being written by Phil Johnston and Pamela Ribon. Director Rich Moore, producer Clark Spencer, and co-writer Phil Johnston partnered with fellow director Byron Howard and co-writer/co-director Jared Bush to create the Academy Award®-winning blockbuster feature “Zootopia.”

ROYAL REUNION – In “Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck It Ralph 2,” Vanellope von Schweetz-along with her best friend Ralph-ventures into the uncharted world of the internet. When she finds herself surrounded by Disney princesses, she’s surprised to learn that she actually has a lot in common with them. The scene, highlighted in a new trailer for the film (below), features several of the original princess voices, including Auli’i Cravalho (“Moana”), Kristen Bell (Anna in “Frozen”), Idina Menzel (Elsa in “Frozen”), Kelly MacDonald (Merida in “Brave”), Mandy Moore (Rapunzel in “Tangled”), Anika Noni Rose (Tiana in “The Princess and the Frog”), Ming-Na Wen (“Mulan”), Irene Bedard (“Pocahontas”), Linda Larkin (Jasmine in “Aladdin”), Paige O’Hara (Belle in “Beauty and the Beast”) and Jodi Benson (Ariel in “The Little Mermaid”). Featuring Sarah Silverman as the voice of Vanellope, “Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck It Ralph 2” opens in theaters nationwide Nov. 21, 2018. 

 

“RALPH BREAKS THE INTERNET: WRECK-IT RALPH 2”

WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS

https://disney.com/ralphbreakstheinternet

https://www.youtube.com/user/disneyanimation

https://www.facebook.com/WreckItRalph/

https://twitter.com/wreckitralph

https://www.instagram.com/wreckitralph/

 

U.S. Release Date:  Nov. 21, 2018

Voice cast: John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman, Taraji P. Henson, Jack McBrayer, Jane Lynch, Alan Tudyk

Directors: Rich Moore, Phil Johnston

Producer: Clark Spencer

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Film & Movies

Marvel Fans: See Props, Costumes, New Games, Exclusive Content and More at Disney’s D23 EXPO 2017 in Anaheim

Published

6 years ago

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May 22, 2017

By

MARVEL ANNOUNCES EPIC EXPERIENCES FOR FANS AT DISNEY’S D23 EXPO 2017 IN ANAHEIM, JULY 14-16

  

BURBANK, Calif. (June 1, 2017) – Marvel will make its way to D23 Expo’s show floor from July 14­-16 with an exciting look at its upcoming film titles in the Marvel Studios Pavilion, featuring an array of props and costumes from the Studios’ upcoming slate, including Thor: Ragnarok, Black Panther, and more.

In Marvel Studios’ Thor: Ragnarok, in theaters November 2017, Thor is imprisoned on the other side of the universe without his mighty hammer and finds himself in a race against time to get back to Asgard to stop Ragnarok-the destruction of his homeworld and the end of Asgardian civilization-at the hands of an all-powerful new threat, the ruthless Hela., played by Cate Blanchette. 

But first he must survive the Grandmaster’s gladiatorial contest that pits him against his former ally and fellow Avenger-the Incredible Hulk. 

Fans will get an up-close look at the costumes and props from this highly anticipated movie as well as photo opportunities with exclusive set pieces from the film. 

The incredible costumes from Black Panther will also be on display. 

Black Panther follows the journey of T’Challa after the events of Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Civil War,where he returns to the isolated, technologically advanced African nation of Wakanda to serve as his country’s new leader. 

In addition to the exciting props and costumes on display, Marvel Studios will host multiple giveaways and events within its pavilion space in Hall B.

Fans will get the chance to meet with Marvel Studios’ filmmakers, development team, and talent. Exclusive artwork will be given away daily, along with other surprises. Details on talent appearances and special signings will be made available on the D23 Expo app.

Fans will also be able to enjoy all-new console and mobile Marvel Games, plus incredible exclusive content and announcements throughout the weekend!

For the first time at D23 Expo, guests will be able to get their hands on the hottest new console and mobile games featuring favorite Marvel Super Heroes, playing as the world-famous Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy, Spider-Man, and more! 

LEGO®Marvel Super Heroes 2 is an all-new, original adventure and sequel to the smash hit LEGO®Marvel Super Heroes.Bringing together iconic Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains from different eras and realities, along with signature LEGO humor,the latest epic adventure from TT Games transports players into a cosmic battle across myriad Marvel locations ripped from time and space into the incredible open hub world of Chronopolis.

Adding to the infinite excitement of D23 Expo, Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite will offer attendees hands-on opportunities with the next era of the highly revered action-fighting game series. 

Marvel and Capcom universes collide like never before as iconic characters team up for action-packed player-versus-player combat. 

Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite features a variety of exciting and accessible single-player modes and rich multi-player content for new players and longtime fans alike and will be released on September 19, 2017, for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.

Gazillion will offer a chance to play Marvel Heroes Omega and win fantastic prizes.

Marvel Heroes Omega combines the core gameplay style of Action-RPGs and MMOs with an expansive library of heroes from the Marvel Universe. With thousands of hours of character progression and rewards,Marvel Heroes Omegacomes packed with tons of replay value and a steady stream of new challenges with regular updates.

Netmarble is bringing its best to D23 Expo with MARVEL: Future Fight.

Featuring 120 Marvel Super Heroes to choose from, players create teams of their favorites to fight for their future. D23 Expo attendees can try their hand at saving the universe.

Marvel Puzzle Quest is where the best in match-3 puzzle gameplay meets Marvel’s biggest Super Heroes and Super Villains in the most epic puzzle adventure game available on your phone, tablet, and PC.

Marvel Puzzle Questcombines favorite Marvel characters with deep RPG leveling, player-versus-player tournaments, Alliances, and much more. Guests can unleash their inner Super Hero and wage war against their enemies. Learn more atwww.marvelpuzzlequest.com.

Marvel will present incredible panels during D23 Expo, including the fan-favorite Cup o’ Joe on Friday, July 14, at 1:15 p.m. in the D23 Expo Arena, featuring Chief Creative Officer of Marvel, Joe Quesada, in a no-holds-barred panel of everything Marvel!

That same day at 6 p.m. on Stage 28, Marvel Animation presents a surprise-filled panel of sneak peeks, special guests, exclusive footage, and big announcements about the future of Marvel Animation on Stage 28. Details will be available on the D23 Expo app.

Tickets for D23 Expo 2017 are available for $81 for one-day adult admission and $59 forchildren 3-9. Membersof D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can purchase tickets for $72 for a one-day adult admission and $53 for children 3-9. Multi-day tickets are also available. 

For more information on tickets and D23 Expo 2017, visit D23Expo.com.

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