By: Ashmar Mandou
The global musical hit, Aladdin returns to Chicago next week. Replete with spectacular set designs, nostalgic tunes, and an iconic genie, Aladdin is sure to leave everyone who catches the show feeling upbeat. We spoke to one of the talented actors starring in Aladdin, Omar Nieves, Anastasia (first national tour) and West Side Story in Tokyo. In between rehearsals, Nieves shared with Lawndale Bilingual News why Aladdin remains impactful and what people can expect from Aladdin.
Lawndale Bilingual News: The sensational hit, Aladdin will make its Chicago return mid-May. How are rehearsals going, so far? And what are you looking forward to the most during your Chicago residence?
Omar Nieves: Rehearsals are going well and we are having the best time. It’s really hard to pick only one thing to look forward to in such an amazing city as Chicago, but I cannot wait to hear the audiences’ reaction to our show. I am also looking forward to eating some deep dish pizza of course.
LN: Aladdin is truly a magical show that is enjoyed by all ages. How does it feel to be a part of something that impacts multiple generations?
ON: It feels incredible to be part of something that impacts multiple generations, including mine. It’s kind of crazy to be part of the theater version of the animated picture that I loved so much as a kid and I still love as an adult.
LN: What goes into starring in a Broadway hit that audience members might not see?
ON: It takes a lot of work from a lot of different departments. People only see the performers, but behind the scenes there is a battalion of super talented people working to make the magic happen.
LN: How many hours are you rehearsing?
ON: At the beginning, we rehearsed 8 hours a day, six days a week but now that we are on the road, we have 8 hours a week to keep the show in optimum condition.
LN: What sacrifices and challenges occur when you are in a show that is a global hit?
ON: When you are on the road there are a number of things that you have to leave behind like home and family. Also traveling every week is really taxing on your body, but all of it is worth it. Being on stage and sharing your talent with others is a unique experience that I wouldn’t change for the world.
LN: For those who haven’t seen Aladdin on Broadway, what do you hope resonates with them?
ON: I hope seeing Disney’s Aladdin onstage brings back that same sensation you had as a child seeing your favorite animated film for the first time.
LN: Is there a particular scene in the show that you always look forward to performing in front of an audience?
ON: ‘Friend Like Me’ is definitely my favorite moment to perform. It’s a high energy, beautiful and magical production number not only for us but also for the audience.
LN: You have garnered amazing experiences on Broadway touring in Anastasia and West Side Story; can you tell me what inspired you to officially jumpstart your career on Broadway?
ON: So many things! Performing is my passion and being surrounded by the best is daunting and challenging but also fulfilling. At first I was scared of not being good enough or having what it takes, but I gave myself the opportunity to try and thankfully it worked in my favor.
LN: What advice can you give young Latinos in Chicago who aspire to be in Broadway?
ON: I will tell them that it is possible, that is a lot of work but it’s so worth it. There is a space for us. You just have to work hard and be ready so when the opportunity comes, you can succeed.
The hit Broadway musical comedy will begin performances in Chicago at Broadway In Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph St.) on May 17 for a limited two-week engagement through Sunday, May 28. For more information, visit AladdinTheMusical.com/tour or visit, www.BroadwayInChicago.com.
Photo Credit: Broadway in Chicago
