Sherri Shepherd Will Join Broadway Aladdin as Genie
Shepherd is set to become the first woman to perform the role of the Genie in the Broadway production of Aladdin.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Comedy
Live Poll
Should traditional gender-casted roles in theater productions be open to performers of all genders?
Comedian Sherri Shepherd will take on the role of the Genie in the Broadway production of Aladdin at the New Amsterdam Theatre. Her limited run is scheduled to begin on October 16, 2026.
Why it matters
Shepherd’s casting marks a notable milestone for the long-running musical as she becomes the first woman to portray the iconic Genie character on the Broadway stage.
Since opening on March 20, 2014, the musical has reached over 22 million viewers globally and established 11 productions across four continents. The show has also secured 17 house records at the New Amsterdam Theatre.
The players
Sherri Shepherd
She is a comedian and television personality who will become the first woman to perform as the Genie in the Broadway production of Aladdin.
New Amsterdam Theatre
This historic venue located on Broadway serves as the long-term home for the Disney musical Aladdin.
The details
Sherri Shepherd will step into the spotlight for this limited engagement at the New Amsterdam Theatre. Her tenure follows a history of international success for the production, which has expanded into 11 distinct versions globally.
Timeline
March 20, 2014: Aladdin opened on Broadway.
October 16, 2026: Sherri Shepherd begins her limited run as Genie.
January 3, 2027: Sherri Shepherd concludes her limited run.
Industry Dynamics
The casting choice follows the 2014 opening of Disney's Aladdin on Broadway, marking a shift in how legacy roles are cast within long-running major stage productions. This decision reflects a broader trend of studio-backed musicals diversifying talent to maintain audience interest in decade-old franchises.
Fans can purchase tickets to see this limited run beginning on October 16, 2026, at the New Amsterdam Theatre. The show continues its standard theatrical schedule through January 3, 2027, when the run concludes.
The takeaway
This casting news highlights how even long-running Broadway productions evolve to keep their performances fresh for returning audiences. Attendees looking to catch this specific run should plan their visits before the January 2027 closing date.
Further reading
Learn more about the local stage scene in the Comedy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Broadway World.
Live Poll
Should traditional gender-casted roles in theater productions be open to performers of all genders?
