Marion Local Drama Club Opens “Aladdin Jr.” Run This Week

Maria Steinbrunner, Dalton Pohlman And A Cast Of Fellow Seniors Are Helping Bring Agrabah to life as the Marion Local High School Drama Club opens its production of Disney’s Aladdin Jr. this week.

According to information shared by cast members and the school’s promotional poster, opening night is Thursday, April 9th, with performances continuing through Sunday, April 12th in the Marion Local High School gym. The poster says tickets are available online through the Marion Local homepage by searching “Drama Club,” and will also be sold at the door.

Senior Lydia Steinbrenner plays Jasmine and described the princess as independent, strong and caring. She said one of the more challenging parts of the role has been portraying Jasmine’s romantic side, even though she otherwise relates closely to the character.

Senior Dalton Pohlman plays Aladdin and said the role has required him to balance confidence with a softer side. He said finding that mix has been the biggest challenge in portraying the title character.

Trey Gottemoeller, who plays the Sultan, said his character is caring and wants what is best for Jasmine, but also follows rules closely. He said stepping into more of a fatherly role has been a new challenge for him on stage.

Christian Kramer, who plays Jafar, said the villain role has been very different from characters he has played in the past. He said the part has been fun, but also requires him to stay manipulative and intense throughout the performance.

Grace Brunswick, who plays Genie, said the role has been especially fun because of the character’s energy, loud personality and dramatic style. She said the part allows her to be creative and play outside the box.

The production’s director said the students have stretched themselves in roles unlike ones they have played before and said the show features high energy songs, big dance numbers and plenty of movement throughout.

The show schedule includes a Thursday performance at 7:30 p.m., a Friday show at 8 p.m., a Saturday show at 7:30 p.m. and a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. The poster also promotes Thursday as opening night and lists the full run as April 9th through 12th.

The colorful show graphic features the Aladdin Jr. title, a magic lamp and the performance dates, reinforcing the school’s push for online ticket sales ahead of the opening weekend.