BWW Reviews: ALADDIN & THE MAGIC LAMP at the Pumpkin Theatre

The Pumpkin Theatre's ALADDIN & THE MAGIC LAMP is a colorful and charming version of the famous fairy-tale. My delightful five-year-old guest became so engrossed in the story she forgot to sit down and looked like she might fly onto the stage to rescue the hero and his princess from the evil clutches of the dastardly villains. It's always heartening to see the digital generation put aside their gadgets and fall under the spell of classic theater.

Director Stacey Needle creates a rollicking adventure that had the parents as entertained as their children. The high energy cast is up to the adventure. Sam Hayder's resourceful Aladdin knows how to get in and out of trouble. But when the tailor falls for Princess Opal, the lovely Amy Greco, he may be in for more trouble than he can handle. Hayder and Greco are both sweet and funny as they try to work around their forbidden romance.

They are surrounded by an engaging cast of characters played with all the enthusiasm one comes to expect from Pumpkin Theatre players. Thom Sinn plays evil Uncle Malfi with comic finesse. Anthony Scimonelli makes a grand entrance as the Genie whose wishes are tantalizing and tricky.

There are no small parts in the Pumpkin Theatre as each character has a spotlight on their unique perspective of the story. Erin Confair's Sasha is Opal's witty "I've been here before" maid and companion. And the royal guards, Mahesh (Bob Harris) and Gitesh (Rafael 'Spike' Regales), are too amusing as they never quite get their position right.

Technical Director,Seth Glasser, and Lighting Director, Lana Riggins, work with Mandee Ferrier Roberts' Orchestrations to handle supernatural entrances and exits with style. Scenic Designer, Heather Mork, and Costume Designer, Wil Crowther, create magical sets and wardrobes to complete the picture. The cast is resplendent in their storybook garb. The show is a splendid example of theatrical teamwork creating an engrossing fantasy for all ages to enjoy.

ALADDIN & THE MAGIC LAMP plays through September 28, 2014 at The Pumpkin Theatre at Har Sinai Congregation located on 2905 Walnut Avenue in Owings Mills, Maryland. For tickets call the box office at (410) 902-1814 or purchase them online at www.pumpkintheatre.com.