Aladdin Jr. Dazzles on the Orange Civic Theatre Stage

In late July, the curtain rose on Disney’s Aladdin Jr. as the talented cast and crew of Kinross Wolaroi School transported audiences to the magical world of Agrabah at the Orange Civic Theatre. Performed across three nights—24, 25 and 26 July—the production brought colour, heart and a touch of Broadway magic to the Central West.

Based on the Academy Award®-winning 1992 animated classic and the 2014 Broadway adaptation, Aladdin Jr. is a vibrant reimagining of the timeless story of a “diamond in the rough” who learns that true worthlies not in wealth or power, but in character and courage.

“Aladdin Jr. is a magical fantasy story about an unlikely hero, Aladdin, who is seeking more in life, meets a princess in a marketplace, falls in love, then when he meets Genie and rubs the lamp, this magical world unfolds,” said director Alex Dunkley.

And what a world the students created.

With 68 students involved from Years 7 to 12, bringing this fantastical setting to life was no small feat. Audiences were swept from the bustling marketplace to the golden desert, through the mysterious Cave of Wonders, and into the opulent palace—before taking flight on a magic carpet during the show’s iconic number, A Whole New World.

“There were lots of set pieces and movement across different locations. We’re in the marketplace, we’re in the palace, we go into the Cave of Wonders, and they’re flying on a magic carpet above the world at one point,” Dunkley explained. “There are lots of props to create that sort of fantasy world, but our crew has been amazing. They’ve been painting and sticking and bejewelling, and helping to pull everything together.”

The show was also a learning ground for many students, some of whom were stepping onto the stage for the very first time.

“There is quite a bit of choreography and singing, and for alot of them, this is their first time doing a musical. They’ve had to learn about characterisation and how to perform in a space and how to interact with a large ensemble,” Dunkley shared.

At its heart, Aladdin Jr. delivered powerful themes—friendship, integrity, love, and self-belief—resonating strongly with both cast and audience. The journey of Aladdin, his loyal friends Babkak, Omarand Kassim, and the larger-than-life Genie reminded everyone that dreams, courage and authenticity are what truly shape a destiny.

“One of the aspects I’m most proud of is the incredible range of students involved—from Year 7 through to Year 12—who have come together as one passionate and united team to bring this spectacular show to life,” said Dunkley.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of staff helped bring the vision to reality, including Catherine Litchfield, Helena Rollo, Andrew Orme-Smith, Brooke Mortimer and Luke Moxey. From costume design and set building to vocal coaching and choreography, their tireless work made the production possible.

With dazzling sets, colourful costumes, unforgettable songs, and heartfelt performances, Aladdin Jr. was a true celebration of creativity and community—and a reminder of the magic that happens when young people dare to dream.