Disney wasn’t so sure about their latest venture to recreate The Lion King’s monstrous success, but it seems they no longer have to worry. The show (with only one Tony to it’s name and no critics approval), is a major success for the Mouse House. Thomas Shumacher, whose the head of Disney’s theatrical division, is clearly pretty pleased with the show’s box office (he desperately needed a win after Tarzan and The Little Mermaid). Aladdin has become one of the top selling shows on Broadway, making more money than other show of the 2013-2014 season. Closely behind The Lion King, The Book of Mormon, and Wicked the show is surpassing every odd. Last month we learned the show would mount several productions across the world (including Germany and Japan) but it seems their also heading to the West End. The musical is in negotiations to open at the iconic London Palladium in 2016. Most notably, the theater has housed Britain’s Got Talent, The Sound of Music, and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Wizard of Oz. Next year, it’s slated to house the latest revival of Cats (starring Nicole Scherzinger). On Broadway, Aladdin is packing houses at the New Amsterdam Theatre (which Disney owns). We can’t say that were not surprised with Disney’s latest success. I certainly did not see this coming. To be honest, Shumacher probably didn’t either. This is the rare sort of show that remains a pleasant little surprise.
Ultimate Broadway 