Pretoria, South Africa — Audiences are invited to experience the magic, adventure and
wonder of beloved Aladdin as Ever After Stage Productions brings this spectacular
musical to the Drama Theatre at the South African State Theatre from 31 July to 9 August
2026.
Featuring a cast of 30 exceptionally talented young performers, Aladdin showcases some
of Gauteng’s brightest emerging musical theatre talent. Leading the company are Alewyn
Kritzinger as the charming Aladdin, André Ohlson as the larger-than-life Genie, Shaliya
Ramparsad as the courageous Princess Yasmin, and Omphile Ntswelengwe as the formidable Zahar.
Together with an energetic ensemble of dancers, singers and actors,
they transform the stage into the bustling streets of Agrabah, the magnificent royal palace
and the mystical Cave of Wonders in a production bursting with colour, spectacle and
heart.
Stepping into the unforgettable role of the Genie is André Ohlson, one of South Africa’s
most exciting emerging musical theatre performers. An award-winning Oakfields College
graduate with an impressive portfolio spanning stage, film, voice acting and international
touring productions, André’s exceptional versatility, magnetic stage presence and
powerhouse performance promise to make the Genie an unforgettable highlight of
Aladdin.
Among the talented cast is rising young performer Gideon van Biljon as Amir. Having
already performed internationally in Matilda the Musical and appeared in several South
African stage productions, Gideon represents the calibre of young performers being
nurtured through productions such as Aladdin, bringing enthusiasm, professionalism
and youthful energy to the stage.
Founded in 2021 by director Danielle Botha, Ever After Stage Productions is dedicated to
producing musical theatre of the highest standard while nurturing the next generation of
performing artists. With a strong focus on professional training and mentorship, the
company equips young performers with the skills, confidence and experience needed to
pursue successful careers in the performing arts.
True to Ever After Stage Productions’ commitment to developing young performers, the
cast embarked on an intensive eight-month rehearsal process designed to mirror the
standards of the professional theatre industry. Under the direction of Danielle Botha and
co-director Byron Botha, performers received comprehensive training that extended far
beyond rehearsing the production itself.
Throughout the rehearsal period, cast members participated in specialised workshops
led by respected industry professionals, including character development with Jackie
Lulu, belly dancing with Chelsea Rademeyer of Oriental Fire, parkour and stage combat
with HSD Productions, partner lift training with Johan Dippenaar, professional studio
vocal recordings at RS Studios, and an on-location promotional film shoot with Snapback
Productions.
The production’s movement is brought to life by resident choreographer Jade Morey,
whose work has become synonymous with Ever After Stage Productions. Since joining
the company in 2020, Jade has choreographed productions including Frozen Princess,
Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella and now Aladdin. Her professional career also includes
choreography for the SAMA Awards, the South African Presidential Inauguration, Lexus
Pop Classics and numerous large-scale corporate productions. The magical world of
Agrabah is further brought to life through the stunning costume designs of Liesle Joubert
and Liesl Smit, whose vibrant creations add richness, colour and authenticity to this
spectacular production.
“Aladdin is a story about courage, hope and believing that your future is not determined
by where you come from, but by the choices you make,” says director Danielle Botha.
Booking Information
Production: Aladdin
Dates: 31 July – 9 August 2026
Tickets: Available through Webtickets. Media Enquiries | 072 922 3393