TWO wishes have now been granted to Tip Top Productions and the company is hoping its third comes true this Yuletide.
Tip Top's first wish was that Warren Sollars, who was to play Aladdin in this year's Christmas show, did well in Channel 4's wannabe show Musicality.
Warren was eventually selected to perform on-stage in Chicago in London's West End.
Although this wish was granted, it did mean the star of the show would not be able to perform in Wrexham from December 27 when Aladdin hits the stage.
An appeal was launched to find a replacement for Warren. With only four weeks to opening night at the Stiwt theatre, director Peter Swingler had a second wish granted when he learned that Paul Dabek, the winner of the Magic Circle's Young Magician of the Year 2003 award, had returned home from a long tour of professional engagements hoping to spend a few days over Christmas with his parents.
Paul, who used to perform with Tip Top himself, offered to adjust his schedule and he has stepped into the lead role.
Paul has played roles as diverse as Barnaby in Hello Dolly! and Ariel in Return to the Forbidden Planet.
'I have appeared with Tip Top on many occasions so I know the quality of their work and after a few calls to my agent, I am now able to join the cast of Aladdin,' said Paul.
Director Peter Swingler said: 'Paul is an unbelievable asset to Aladdin because he has thrown himself into the role, learnt the script and songs and has even designed and created some exceptional magical effects which will thrill audiences at the Stiwt.
'I will be keeping an eye on the magic lamp now in the hope that our third wish, full houses for our whole run, also comes true. '
Aladdin is at the Stiwt Theatre for only five performances from 27 December. Tickets are priced from £6 and are available on 01978 311446.
