‘Aladdin’ Takes a Ride on Ice

Disney’s “Aladdin,” which made a big splash on the big screen, becoming one of Walt Disney’s top-grossing animated features, will now work its magic on ice with “Walt Disney’s World on Ice--Aladdin,” opening Christmas Day.

“Aladdin is much more than the traditional ice production,” says Kenneth Feld, the man behind the curtain, whose resume includes Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, Siegfried & Roy in Las Vegas and “Fool Moon” on Broadway.

“This production is actually musical theater on ice, complete with comedy, action and a dash of drama.”

The ice show sticks to the basic tale of the young street urchin who falls in love with a princess. With the help of a genie, the young man, portrayed here by 1984 Olympic skater Jaimee Eggleton, skates fast and furiously to win the hand of Princess Jasmine, played by three-time Canadian pairs gold medalist Cynthia Coull.

Translating the Disney film into an ice show was no presto-changeo act. With the help of the Walt Disney Co., 22 detailed curtains and 306 props were employed to re-create the magic carpet ride on ice. A bi-level stage set design allows for two performance areas. More than 40 professional skaters don Arabian costumes.

The ice show begins Christmas Day, at the L.A. Sports Arena, 3939 Figueroa St. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Sunday through Dec. 29, with matinees offered Tuesday through Jan. 1.

The show moves to the Anaheim Pond from Jan. 4-16 and winds up at Long Beach Arena, Jan. 18-22.

Tickets at the box offices or through Ticketmaster, (213) 480-3232 or (714) 740-2000. Tickets $10.50-$16.50; $5 off Christmas Day performance (call for other discounts).