Aladdin, the Disney classic and a childhood favorite for ‘90s kids, is coming to Austin.

Update, Mar 13, 2020: In further response to the growing concerns over COVID-19 (coronavirus), The University of Texas is postponing all events at Bass Concert Hall through March 30th. 

The Broadway show launched in 2014 at New York City’s New Amsterdam Theatre. Since then, more than 10 million people worldwide, have enjoyed the show. Produced by Disney Theatrical Productions, the show is adapted from the Academy Award-winning Disney film and centuries-old folktales including “One Thousand and One Nights.”

Ahead of the musical’s opening and two-week stop in Austin (March 11-22), we spoke with the hilarious actor Reggie De Leon.

You play Iago in Disney’s Aladdin. What do you enjoy most about the role?

Getting to play the dastardly Iago is pure joy. Iago may be viewed as an abrasive character, but I always loved Iago in the animated feature film because Gilbert Gottfried’s portrayal was comedy gold. Having the honor to play Iago on stage is very special to me and getting to tap into the more mischievous side of my character is really fun!

Do you have a favorite scene in the musical?

I have many favorite scenes, but the one I look forward to doing the most is the one where Jafar and I share an evil laugh. It’s deliciously fun!

Overall, what makes this Broadway showing of a popular Disney film worth seeing?

Imagine the story we all know and love – but LIVE – on stage, with all your favorite characters, and some fun new ones, really bringing this beloved tale to life, right before your very eyes! Disney magic abounds in this production. From glitzy costumes, thrilling choreography, romance, comedy, a stunning set with a golden Cave of Wonders, and a Magic Carpet that really flies! It’s a show the whole family will truly enjoy because there’s something that will appeal to everyone. It also makes for a very fun date night!

Recent reviews say the costumes are especially glittery. Is there anything that you think our readers would find especially interesting?

The costumes were designed by the incredible Gregg Barnes, and he created nearly 350 costumes that were handcrafted from materials from all over the world. There are also over 100 costume changes that take places in less than a minute, so try to count them all when you come see the show!

Your resume is very impressive. Can you tell us about some of your other favorite projects?

Besides Iago, one of my favorite roles is Paul, the silent Sous Chef, in the hit sitcom CBS “MOM.” I’ve been lucky enough to be recurring on the show since the pilot, and I’ve done 23 episodes so far—and counting. I also really enjoy playing Shep, the flamboyant publicist and manager to Tiny in the Netflix film franchise, “Pup Star.” It was so much fun and, to this day, many of my cast mates from the movies and I are still close and consider ourselves family.

Aladdin runs March 11-22 at Bass Concert Hall. Tickets start at $30 and can be purchased online. The musical also makes a stop at San Antonio’s Majestic Theatre March 25 – April 12.

Cover photo Deen van Meer

Britni Rachal lives in Austin, Texas. She is a freelance journalist and a full-time marketer within the automotive industry. In addition to writing, Rachal enjoys traveling, event planning, fashion, fitness and serving the Austin community.