It was a magical journey!
Thanks for granting all of our wishes!
This production is made possible by the amazing partnership between the ISD PTA, Open Arts Alliance and the staff at ISD.
A huge round of applause to Mrs. Cindy Busani of Open Arts Alliance and Dr. Sandra Heikel, ISD music & chorus teacher, for their incredible work directing the production.
We are so incredibly proud of the forty-two members of the cast and all of their hard work, their passion, their courage and their enthusiasm. We do this for them so that they may learn and grow and enjoy the amazing art form of theatre.
Thank you to all of the ISD staff that made the production possible:
- Ms. Brezovsky, Ms. Brown & Mrs. Milazzo - Thank you for letting us take over your classrooms for rehearsals and the performance. The ISD stage is a beautiful place to perform and we are so happy to be back on it!
- Ms. Clark - Thank you for letting us invade your space and printing everything we needed!
- Mr. Harris - Thank you for lending us your skills, your dedication and your voice as the cave guardian! No performance happens at ISD without the incomparable Mr. Harris!
- Mrs. Buddy - Thank you for lending us your art display space for our fun show decorations!
- Mrs. Salvatore - Thank you for your classroom and your never-ending patience and support!
- Ms. O'Connor - Thanks for your rehearsal help and for an amazing bulletin board!
- Mrs. Freeda - Thank you for working with the Junior Ensemble to create backdrops, glittering animals, making clouds, hemming costumes and just being an all around invaluable member of the team!
- Mrs. Veniga and Mrs. Manke - Thank you for endless organization and logistics support and for coloring animals!
- Thank you to our custodial staff - Mr. Rende, Mr. Kelly and Mr. Callahan - for all of your help both on rehearsals days and setting up for the performance.
- Mrs. Firmender and Ms. Key - Thank you for your unwavering support with the complicated scheduling and logistics involved in such a big production. We cannot pull this off without your support and encouragement from day 1!
Thank you to the 5th Grade Team that led the way!
- Michelle O'Donnell, Beth Kampf, Katrina Sabeti and Bey Shan Liu - Thank you for the endless planning, rehearsal supervision, child wrangling, program proofreading, expense form filing, t-shirt ordering, decorating, coordinating and all of your tireless work and dedication!
- Carolyn Foley, thank you for everything including hosting an awesome cast party!
- Thank you to all of you who brought snacks for rehearsal, helped with rehearsals, helped decorate, helped get kids in and out of costumes, helped put on makeup, helped backstage and in so many words, made the whole thing possible.
In addition to the many 5th grade families who made the production possible, there were many Junior Ensemble families that were absolutely invaluable as well!
- Thank you to Roli Agrawal and Keti Rogava for planning, organizing and running our concession stand!
- Thank you to the Lam family for printing and donating the programs!
- Thank you to Tony Yu for being a photographer extraordinaire!
- And a huge thank you to Aneela Ahmad for bringing in a glam squad to do makeup for the entire cast! It was unbelievable how happy the kids were to be made up like real actors!
And we can't forget:
- Thank you to our student artists for their amazing backdrop art - JuJu Liu, Landon Martin, Rose Foley and Kokoro Horiuchi.
- Thank you to all of the student helpers, both current ISD students and alumni, including Eshaan Gadi, Ava Kampf, Coco Liu, Nicholas Sabeti, Aliyah Ahmad and more!
- Thank you to our two amazing PTA presidents and the entire ISD PTA Board for your support!
- Thank you to Rocco Natale, Jake Lloyd and Kathy Walker from Open Arts Alliance!
This production is truly a labor of love for all of us who work on it. Seeing the joy radiating from every student in the cast is all the thanks we need. See you next year!
Important Information/Zoom Info MeetinG
Welcome to the ISD 5th Grade Musical!
Calling all 5th Graders! Let's soar into Aladdin Kids at ISD!
Scholarships available for students who qualify for Free/Reduced Lunch.
Please contact Mrs. Firmender.
- The purpose of this production is to teach our students the theater arts and build community. We want our 5th graders to have fun and enjoy creating this show together.
- Every student who registers will be cast in the show.
- Casting will be done by our director and is entirely at their discretion. No parents or students will be involved in the casting process.
- All rehearsal conflicts must be listed in the registration form. If a student misses too many rehearsals, it is at the discretion of the director to recast that student to a smaller role.
- Both parent and student must read and sign the show agreement on the registration form.
- It is at the director's discretion to recast a part if a student is not meeting the good behavior standards they have agreed upon in their show agreement.
- Questions? Contact the team at: 5thmusical@isdpta.org
ALADDIN INFORMATIONAL ZOOM MEETING:
Monday, September 18th at 7:30pm
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83074629476
Meet our Cast
Production schedule
Auditions:
- Video Submission due Sunday, September 24th
- Acting Audition/First Rehearsal on Friday, September 29th
Rehearsals (times subject to change):
- September 29th - November 3rd: Mondays and Fridays from 3:15- 5:00pm
- November 6th - November 15th: Monday-Friday 3:15- 5:30/6:00pm
Performances (times subject to change):
- November 16th: student assembly (time TBD) and 6:30pm
- November 17th: student assembly (time TBD), 4pm and 6:30pm
Show Synopsis
Show Synopsis
A Lamp Vendor appears in a marketplace conjured by Djinn, theatrical "spirits of the lamp." A group of Agrabahns help him introduce the city of Agrabah ("Arabian Nights – Part 1") and the story of a dusty old lamp that changed a young man's life:
Jasmine, Princess of Agrabah, argues with the Sultan over the ancient law requiring that she marry a prince immediately. Jafar, the scheming Royal Vizier, and Iago, his parrot sidekick, welcome Prince Abdullah, Prince Hassim, and Prince Malik, who are interested in Jasmine's hand in marriage. Jasmine sends them away, and Jafar reminds her that if she doesn't choose a husband, she will have to marry him.
Jafar, eager to claim the throne, goes to the Cave of Wonders to seek the magic lamp ("Arabian Nights – Part 2"). But the Cave Guardian denies him; only Aladdin, the Diamond in the Rough, may enter.
Meanwhile, in the marketplace, Aladdin weaves through vendors, Beggars, and other citizens of Agrabah trying to avoid getting caught for stealing a loaf of bread ("One Jump Ahead"). He bumps into Jasmine in disguise, who has run away from the palace. They are both caught by the Guards ("One Jump Ahead – Reprise"), and Aladdin is thrown into a Skeleton-filled dungeon ("Dungeon Ditty").
Jafar tricks Aladdin into entering the cave to retrieve the lamp, but Aladdin gets trapped inside. When he rubs the lamp, a magical Genie appears with his magic carpet, Avis ("Friend Like Me"). Genie explains that Aladdin can make three wishes. For his first two, Aladdin wishes to get out of the cave and to become a prince so he can see Jasmine again.
Aladdin — as Prince Ali — and his entourage make a grand entrance at the palace ("Prince Ali"). Jasmine remains unimpressed, so Aladdin decides to be himself and speak from the heart while taking her on a magic carpet ride ("A Whole New World").
However, Jafar and Iago deviously steal the magic lamp and Jafar becomes Genie's new boss. With his first two wishes, he becomes Sultan of Agrabah and a powerful sorcerer. Jafar also reveals that Prince Ali has merely been Aladdin in disguise ("Prince Ali – Reprise 1") and orders his arrest ("Prince Ali – Reprise 2").Before getting captured, Aladdin tricks Jafar into wishing to become a genie. In a flash, Jafar ends up trapped inside his own magic lamp ("Jafar's Demise").
For his final wish, Aladdin frees Genie. Jasmine remains hopeful that she and Aladdin can change the world together; the Sultan then alters the law so that she can marry whomever she wants and so that she herself will one day she will become ruler of Agrabah! All rejoice ("Finale & Bows")!
Character breakdown
Aladdin, a poor street urchin, longs to do the right thing, but sometimes loses his way. He's the thief with a heart of gold, so cast your most charismatic actor with the versatility to play both the playful prankster and caring lead. Make sure he has the vocal chops to carry this heavy- singing role.
Genie is the fun-loving, scene-stealing wisecracker who lives in the lamp and yearns to be free. Genie doesn’t need to be your strongest singer or dancer – look for an actor with great comic timing and a flashy and fun sense of showmanship.
Iago is the fawning and funny parrot and sidekick to Jafar. With only a few lyrics to sing, focus on finding an actor who can execute this lackey's many sarcastic asides with comedic flair.
Jafar is the power-hungry and crooked Royal Vizier. Cast a strong actor who can sing (or speak in rhythm) and portray both sides of Jafar's two- faced personality - loyal advisor to the Sultan and scheming villain - as well as pull off delicious comedic moments with his lackey Iago.
Jasmine, the Princess of Agrabah, longs to experience the world outside the palace walls. Curious and assertive, she knows what she wants and craves the freedom to create change and help the people of her kingdom. Cast a strong actor and singer who can portray both the caring lead and a young woman caught between her responsibilities to her people and to herself.
The Lamp Salesman is a likeable fast-talking vendor who serves as the principal storyteller in our show. The student playing this role should be comfortable onstage and have a clear speaking voice. Since this is not a major singing role, it is ideal for a strong actor still developing his or her singing skills.
Sultan, the warm-hearted ruler who dotes on his daughter, is committed to upholding the ancient laws of Agrabah. Focus on finding an actor who can play this father figure convincingly.
The Ensemble includes Djinn, magical theatrical spirits of the lamp; Agrabahns, citizens of Agrabah; palace Guards; hungry Beggars in the marketplace; Skeletons of past prisoner of the royal dungeon; and Prince Ali's Entourage.
- Djinn are the spirits of the lamp who help execute the magic of the story and sing with Genie in "Friend Like Me." Look for performers with a sense of theatricality and movement - you may choose to use them as featured dancers in "Friend Like Me."
- Agrabahns, the citizens of Agrabah who help to create the bustling marketplace, can include street performers, snake charmers, shoppers, fortune tellers, and families.
- Guards follow Jafar's orders. While there are only four solo singing roles, feel free to include as many additional guards as you like in your production.
- Beggars are a small group with whom Aladdin briefly interacts and who sing one lyric as a group; feel free to cast as many or as few as best suits your production.
- The Skeletons of past prisoners come to life in the palace's dungeon to sing the "Dungeon Ditty." For this group, look for performers who can both move and sing well.
- The Entourage helps to create the spectacular parade of "Prince Ali" through the royal palace.
Bread Vendor is an aggravated seller in the marketplace from whom Aladdin steals.
Fruit Vendor is a friendly merchant in the marketplace.
Prince Abdullah, Prince Hassim, and Prince Malik are the royal suitors who aspire to marry Jasmine. These pompous princes are more interested in becoming Sultan than getting to know the Princess, so cast three actors who can humorously convey different levels of clichéd coolness.
Gender: Male
Prince Abdullah, Prince Hassim, and Prince Malik are the royal suitors who aspire to marry Jasmine. These pompous princes are more interested in becoming Sultan than getting to know the Princess, so cast three actors who can humorously convey different levels of clichéd coolness.
Prince Abdullah, Prince Hassim, and Prince Malik are the royal suitors who aspire to marry Jasmine. These pompous princes are more interested in becoming Sultan than getting to know the Princess, so cast three actors who can humorously convey different levels of clichéd coolness.
The Cave Guardian is the ominous guard who instructs Aladdin to touch only the lamp. You may choose to cast this role as an onstage character or as an offstage voice.
Avis, a magical flying carpet, can be approached in a number of ways - either presented more literally as a carpet or, more expressionistically as a dancer who works with a stretch of fabric or dons a creative costume. Regardless of your vision for this character, Avis doesn't speak, so look for a performer who can articulate storytelling through both facial expressions and movement.
Audition information/Rehearsal resources
Singing Audition Video Submission
- Cast members should submit a singing audition video by September 24th.
- Students should sing a song they are comfortable with. Please keep videos to less than 60 seconds.
- The video should be submitted on this form: https://forms.gle/ynx9MeWuMdihSf9b9
- If you have any difficulties uploading, please contact webmaster@isdpta.org.
Audition Sides
The director will assign each child one or more sides to read at auditions on.
Rehearsal Resources
Use the guide vocals to learn the songs and the performance tracks to try your hand at singing without the vocals. Use the choreography videos to learn your choreography.
- Audio Tracks:
- Choreography:
- Choreography Videos
backdrop art submissions
Have your artwork be the backdrop for Aladdin KIDS!
We will be looking for three original drawings from the 3-5thgrade to use as the three backdrop scenes for the show.
We need three scenes:
- Agrabah Buildings/Marketplace stalls
- The Cave of Wonders Entrance
- Cave of wonders interior
These images are just ideas to start off. Feel free to look online for other images for inspiration!
We are looking for full color drawings that we scan and have printed as the backdrops. If your drawing is chosen you will be listed as set artist on the playbill and your work will be seen by the entire school!
Please bring your drawings to a rehearsal by October 16thor drop them off at the office.
FAQ
When are auditions?
Auditions will be in two parts. The singing audition will be in the form of a video submission. The acting audition will be on September 29th. Casting will be done entirely by the director. No students or parents will be involved in casting. Students should submit a video of themselves singing a song. It can be any song they know (Happy Birthday, Star Spangled Banner, etc.), they do not need to sign a song from the show. Details on how to send in the submission will be sent after registration.
My child has several conflicts with rehearsal dates, but wants to participate, should I still sign them up?
We want this to be a very inclusive opportunity for all of the 5th grade, so we would encourage him or her to register if they want to be part of the production and can make a majority of rehearsals. All rehearsal conflicts need to be listed on the registration form. Any conflicts with these rehearsals need to be discussed with the director. Please be aware that students who have many conflicts will be cast in smaller roles.
My child wants to be involved but does not want to be on stage. Are there any opportunities to just work behind the scenes?
We want every student to learn the show, play a part, and take their bow at the end of the performance to get the full theater education experience. We will not have purely behind the scenes roles and instead have cast members be involved in the whole process. The ensemble is a great option for kids who don't want to be center stage. If your child would prefer a smaller ensemble role, they can let Mrs. Busani know their preference at auditions.
How is the PTA funding the show?
Producing a show is an expensive undertaking. Your program fee plus ticket sales will go towards licensing fees and show materials, fees for our director and music instructors, set, costumes, sound and lights, programs and more. We will also supplement with extra t-shirts sales, program ads and concessions as needed. While the 5th Grade Musical is a PTA sponsored event, it is self-funding.
When will tickets go on sale?
Tickets will go on sale in mid-October. Tickets will be general admission.
How can parents help?
We need lots of volunteers to help make costumes, supervise rehearsals, help make set pieces and help on show day with makeup, costumes, tickets and more. We will have rehearsal and performance volunteer opportunities listed soon. If you would like to be actively involved in the planning committee, email the team at 5thmusical@isdpta.org.
About Open Arts alliance
Open Arts Alliance (OAA) is a 501c3 non-profit social service organization that uses the performing arts to bridge the gap between the youngest and eldest members of our community. Through our educational programs for children and senior citizens, OAA is dedicated to bringing literacy and art to Greenwich and the surrounding community. Our educational programs use theatre to speak to students of all ages about personal wellness, bullying and making positive life choices. Learn more at OpenArtsAlliance.com.
Jake Lloyd (right): Director of Education, Open Arts Alliance
His work as composer / director / conductor has been seen off-Broadway, in regional venues, and countless theaters across the country, with original works that include, The Lost Boys, Anne of Green Gables, and A Christmas Carol.
Cindy Busani: Teaching Artist / Director of Outreach
Ana Laborde: OAA in Schools Coordinator & Junior Ensemble Teacher
Ana has been volunteering for the GPS PTAs since 2015 when she became ISD PTA Secretary. Since then she has not stopped working in the schools to help enrich the education of our kids and advocate for parents, students, and teachers as PTA President, PTAC VP Curriculum and many more roles. Ana is a theatre mom through and through and has been involved with Open Arts Alliance since 2015 when her daughter was cast in her first production with OAA and was responsible for costuming Frozen Jr. for OAA in 2019 and the 2023 OAA Summer Stage productions of Finding Nemo and Lion King Kids. Ana re-started the 5th Grade Musical at ISD in 2019 and has been producing it since. She is thrilled to be working to bring OAA in Schools to North Mianus School and other schools in Greenwich.
