Southern Nebraska Register
Students in grades 5-7 at St. Michael School in Lincoln performed the musical “Aladdin” April 19.
The performance of the play, based on Disney’s animated movie “Aladdin” gave St. Michael students the opportunity to showcase their gifts and talents in the performing arts. This was the school’s first time presenting a musical.
“I knew I wanted to expand our musical opportunities for students and try a musical this year with our drama club,” said Sabrina Kirkwood, music teacher. “I am so proud of the hard work and dedication of our drama club students through this process. They put on a fantastic show, and I can’t wait to see what we can do next year!”
The story of Aladdin was first based on a version published around 1712 by Antoine Galland (1646-1715). The French scholar recorded in his diary that he first heard the tale from a Syrian storyteller from Aleppo, Hanna Diyab, May 8, 1709. 
In the St. Michael musical, Alivia Farber played Princess Jasmine. Feeling pressured by her father’s desire to find her a royal groom, she sneaks out of the palace and meets Aladdin, portrayed by Sam Otte. The character is a charming street urchin and reformed thief.
Aladdin is sentenced to death by Jafar, played by William Thomas. He is the sultan’s right-hand man and plotting to take over the throne. Jafar orders Aladdin to fetch a lamp from the Cave of Wonders, where Aladdin finds a lamp and unwittingly lets out the fast-talking, all-powerful Genie, portrayed by Nicholas Ashburn.
The characters then embark on an adventure that will test Aladdin’s will and moral character.
“I chose to do the musical because I wanted to try new things and be adventurous,” said Otte, on his role as Aladdin.
The production was directed by Kirkwood and Beth Anne Viessman, second-grade teacher. Amanda Bell, art teacher, aided junior high students with painting and creating the set. John Katzmarek, technology, assisted in lighting and sound production.
“I enjoyed how many jobs there were for students to participate in to bring everyone together to complete the finished product,” said Ashburn. “I also liked playing the Genie because the character is energetic and fun all the time.”
