Some time ago, Sonya Balsara and Adi Roy were both cast in youth productions of “Aladdin” when they were in middle school. Little did they know that this early experience would prepare them for the same roles on Broadway. Over a decade later, Balsara now plays Princess Jasmine, and Roy portrays the show’s titular hero, as the Disney musical celebrates its 10th anniversary on Broadway. Both actors, in their 20s, are of Indian descent, and they went through extensive preparation for these significant roles, with their faces even appearing on billboards in Times Square.
Balsara, raised in a music-filled household in the Bay Area, had a deep passion for performing from a young age. Starting with elementary school productions, her journey led her to acting classes, auditions, and eventually landing her first professional theater role in Tokyo. After multiple auditions, she secured the role of Jasmine on Broadway and has been in the spotlight since January 2023. For Roy, his path to Broadway was more indirect, starting with touring as Ali for 20 months before landing his role as Aladdin on Broadway. His infectious joy in portraying Aladdin shines through, as he finds inspiration in bringing positivity to the stage.
Reflecting on their experiences, both Balsara and Roy acknowledge the impact they have on younger audience members. They understand that for many children, “Aladdin” might be their first live theater experience, potentially sparking a lifelong love for the performing arts. Meeting fans at the stage door and connecting with young audience members during the show have been particularly rewarding for the actors, with Balsara noting the special significance her role holds for Indian families in the audience.
As they continue to shine on Broadway, both Balsara and Roy are excited about the prospect of passing on their roles to a new generation of performers. Balsara values the sisterhood among “Aladdin” princesses and eagerly anticipates the moment when she can pass on the tiara to her successor, potentially someone with a similar start in youth theater. The actors remain grateful for the opportunities they have had and the impact they are making on audiences, inspiring future generations of theater lovers.
