Disenchanted | Pentland Theatre (Ed Fringe)

Disenchanted is a strong re-imagining of the stories of many Disney Princesses, if their story had been dictated by themselves. The princesses take to the stage to reclaim their stories, either sharing their own version of events, what truly happened after the famous 'happily ever after' or rejecting their story entirely and creating their own. The show covers 10 Disney Princesses, skillfully portrayed by an immensely talented cast of five.

Disenchanted is no doubt a fun 80-minute show filled with strong musical numbers, talented performers and clever lyrics, that has since established itself as a firm favourite for many a Fringe theatre goer (including a surprise visit from Disney's very own Live Action Snow White, Rachel Zegler). However, the show feels as though it is almost trying too hard at certain points, falling into the shadow of a wildly successful musical of a similar premise (SIX), and yet sadly without the same star quality.

The musical begins with Snow White as the leader, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella, as they renounce the stories that Disney had given them, promising to make their own voices be heard. The show doesn't really have a narrative, instead becoming a cycle of songs for each princess and a catchy finale ensemble at the end; missing a prime opportunity to lean into girlhood on a more substantial level.

Co-created by Dennis T Giacino and Fiely Matias, the musical numbers of the show are impressive, interweaving original compositions with a nod to the original songs from Disney. The lyrics are clever, with references to the original movies, catering well to the audience who grew up with the movies. Giacino and Matias' songs blend humour, heart and music together well, creating a strong playlist that invites laughter. Admittedly most of the songs, though catchy, aren't quite as memorable as one would hope. The lyrics are witty, but only a few have strong motives that really give the princess a drive and fleshes them out as individual characters who exist outside the confines of the story. Besides Snow White, the limited 80-minute runtime does make it more challenging to get to know the other nine princesses outside of their songs, making them feel more like rebellious teenagers. 

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival invites parodies of well known franchises, remaining as ever a place for people to reclaim their voices and let creativity flow, free from any formal restraints and Disenchanted fits the bill perfectly. However, perhaps due to the provided venue, a rather formal and polished large theatre space that feels ready for more distinguished shows, as opposed to a fun and satirical piece, Disenchanted feels even more disjointed (although this is admittedly not the show's fault).

However, Disenchanted still manages to bewitch its audience through the talent of the cast. Rosie Napper brings enormous vocal and comedic talent to the role of Cinderella. Roshaan Saulnier is impressive as both Sleeping Beauty and Princess Badrouldour (The equivalent of Princess Jasmine, only she refuses to fit into one box), displaying both her excellent singing and movement to each role. Jewelle Hutchinson as The Princess (Who Kissed The Frog), (aka Tiana, although it is not listed in the programme), demonstrates her remarkable talent with a gorgeous performance. Hutchinson may be a true contender if/when Disney needs a live action Tiana.

Eliza Bowden takes on three roles, playing Belle, Ariel and Rapunzel, delivering an irresistible performance as each of the roles. Bowden wows audiences with her vocals but it is in her acting that really makes her a musical theatre performer to look out for. Bowden's Belle is borderline insane, with an unsettling energy about her as she's restrained in a strait-jacket adjacent throne. Her Little Mermaid is hilariously camp as she basks in her own vanity. As Rapunzel, Bowden pulls out all the stops, with a performance that portrays her as a fearless warrior. It's a long shout from the maiden in the tower, but it's a welcome choice.

Ashley New delivers a show stealing performances as both Pocahontas and Mulan, portraying two of the equally beloved but less frequently seen princesses. As Pocahontas, New is commanding of the stage as she questions her lack of freedom, injecting a fury that sets the song apart as an earnest one that buzzes with power. As Mulan, New questions the lack of East Asian representation and the hard realities of everyday life in a stunning performance.

Lois Glenister as Snow White becomes the show's biggest strength, delivering the promised potential of the show as she commands the large stage. Filled with wit, rage, and interest to bring all the princesses together, Glenister's Snow White shines on stage. Glenister delivers impressive vocals and has the audience under her spell soon enough as she brings a hugely likeable and sassy energy on stage, vowing to dismantle the current system and reclaim the power.

Joanne King serves as the show's musical director and only band member. King doesn't miss a beat and feels like a part of the sisterhood between the princesses. Kayleigh Dettmer's choreography fills the vast stage well and helps the show's energy level to remain consistent throughout. Kieran Powell's sound design helps amplify the dialogue well and Barry Smith's lighting design really helps to create special effects that help make the musical numbers much more dramatic. Sara Perks costume design is another standout element of the show, as she maintains the same colours, tones and even costumes that audiences will associate with each character through the Disney films.

Belle's broken skirt ring adds to her unhinged visual imagery. Princess Badrouldour's costume is impressively thought out, as the magic carpet comes attached to her waist. Pocahontas' outfit feels more in tune with the character, a young and scared child. Mulan is given a cool outfit, that feels practical and unique. Ariel takes on an outfit so cool that it is bound to inspire hundreds of cosplays. The green tail has been converted into a tight fitting dress and the purple bra into a crop top with a cool fringe. Snow White, however, takes the cake (or apple) with the best costume. Turning the famous costume into one that feels modern and stylish is impressive. Snow White's jacket is designed to implement important moments from the movie, whilst existing as its own independent jacket.

Disenchanted is a fun and carefree show that promises audiences a good time. Whilst it may not be Fringe royalty yet, it definitely still reigns as one of the most anticipated and beloved musicals at the Fringe.

Disenchanted is various times at the Pentland Theatre at Pleasance at EICC until 30th August - tickets and more information can be found here.

★★★☆☆ (3*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Pamela Raith