Children's Theatre of Elgin presents 'The Adventures of Aladdin'

Now in its 28th season, Children's Theatre of Elgin will offer a modern take on a classic story with "The Adventures of Aladdin."

Performances are Friday-Sunday, Oct. 23-25, at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin.

Known for writing creative, updated versions of well-known stories, CTE delivers just that and more with "The Adventures of Aladdin." CTE alumna Sarah Robertson, making her directorial debut, adapted CTE founder Peter Akemann's "Aladdin" script into a modern tale complete with contemporary tunes.

Robertson, who acted in Akemann's original production of the show as a sixth-grader, was thrilled to put her own spin on the well-known story of a street rat named Aladdin and his unlikely match with Princess Jasmine.

The story takes the audience to the exotic city of Shammar where not all is as it appears. Throw in rapping monkeys, not just one, but two genies, and three evil sisters on the verge of world domination, and you have a recipe for excitement and adventure.

Producer Jamie Cisco is excited to be working with Robertson in their first collaboration with the Children's Theatre of Elgin, together with assistant director Lauren Taylor, choreographer Mary Grace Martens, and music director Earl Rigby.

Cisco could not contain her excitement when talking about working with such a talented creative group.

"Being in the presence of such talented professionals is really inspiring to me as a producer," Cisco said. "It has been a true privilege to watch our creative team work with the kids during this production. Each member of the team brings something special, and it has been a joy to watch it all come together on stage."

While this is Cisco's first foray into producing, she is being mentored by Greg Cherry, former CTE president and longtime CTE supporter. Cherry, who has been involved in the theater over the past 25 years, brings much experience and wisdom to the team.

"It is satisfying to see new people step into the producer role and a real privilege to see the theater continue to grow and thrive," he said. "It is especially satisfying to see kids who have grown up participating in CTE shows, come back and take an active role."

The 97-member cast of "The Adventures of Aladdin" is made up of students in second through ninth grades. They hail from as far north as Crystal Lake and south to St. Charles and all areas in between. Each cast member had to audition in August by singing a song, reading from the script, and learning a short dance. The talent and dedication each child brings to the cast is evident when you see the ensemble on stage.

"The Adventures of Aladdin" performances are set for 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 23-24, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Visit www.CTEelgin.com or call (847) 214-7550.

If you go

What: Children's Theatre of Elgin's original musical, "The Adventures of Aladdin"

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 23-24, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25

Where: The Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin

Tickets: $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors

Details: <a href="http://www.CTEelgin.com">www.CTEelgin.com</a> or (847) 214-7550.