Event Recap: A Dream Is A Wish - Michael James Scott's Broadway

This past Saturday, I ventured to Steinmetz Hall at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts to experience a special concert as part of their Pops series. Michael James Scott, best known for his work as the Genie in Aladdin, returned to his home of Orlando to perform in A Dream Is A Wish: Michael James Scott’s Broadway.

As a first time Philharmonic goer, I was excited to witness such a large orchestra perform some of my favorite Disney and Broadway tunes. However Steinmetz Hall is, itself, a wonder. The second largest theater within the Dr. Phillips Center is malleable. Thanks to automated tiers and seating, the space can grow or shift, depending on the performance being presented. My last time in the theater was the Dancing with the Stars Live Tour, which allowed the space to be a more proper proscenium stage. Yet, for this Philharmonic, the space came alive to its fullest potential.

This performance ended their yearly Pops series, which looks to perform music from pop culture as opposed to complete symphonies. This includes film scores, holiday tunes, and more. However, Michael James Scott’s performance was part well-known music, part orchestra concert, and part cabaret show.

Scott explained his own path to Broadway through small anecdotes and songs. From his start growing up in the Orlando area learning about music at church, to understudying Ben Vereen on the international tour of Fosse, all the way to his Disney home where he currently resides. Amidst these anecdotes and personal songs, the orchestra was also given time to burst out remarkable suites on their own.

The performance opened with a suite of Aladdin tunes (fittingly, of course) that sent chills across my body. There’s something about hearing the music of Alan Menken, songs you’ve come to know and love for decades, played to their fullest potential. Add in the remarkable acoustics of the space and it’s hard not to be covered in goosebumps and joy.

Michael James Scott also was given the opportunity to soar through “Wanna Be Happy?", a worship song assisted by choir members from Orange County Public Schools and a trio of backup singers (with some Voices of Liberty alumni!). Voices came from every direction, hitting us in the audience like a beautiful freight train of talent. Everyone in the audience was tapping their toes or bobbing their head. To be in an infectious space is always a gift.

The night came to a close with one of my all-time favorite songs, Sondheim’s “Sunday", to transcendent effect. Across the performance, it was hard not to come out with a greater appreciation for art. Its ability to uplift. Its opportunity to help one reckon with their own emotions. Art, in its purest form, heals. Thanks to Michael James Scott and the Orlando Philharmonic, I was able to do just that. Sit back, let the music flow through me, and heal.

For more information on the Orlando Philharmonic’s 2025-2026 season, head here.