Make-A-Wish and Disney are making Broadway dreams come true

NEW YORK -- This particular showing of "Aladdin" on Broadway would seem like business as usual to most audience-goers. To teens Jillian Heath and Adonis Reed, however, this performance would signify their Broadway debuts, and, with the help of Make-A-Wish and Disney, their wishes come true!

"I chose this wish because, you know, Broadway's such a famous stage, and I feel like it would be so amazing to be on Broadway," grantee Jillian, 14, explained.

From the start of the performers' Make-A-Wish journeys, Make-A-Wish and Disney made sure to include a helping of Disney magic in every part of their wish: Adonis, 16, recounts Broadway's very own Aladdin giving him a call.

"I knew my wish was granted when I saw the actor who's playing Aladdin, and he said, 'your wish is granted!'"

In the hours leading up to their Broadway debuts, the two were treated to a host of surprises, including a meet and greet with Broadway's current Genie, their own lamps to commemorate their wishes, professional costume fittings and rehearsals with the whole show's team.

"This experience has been just so great. I really liked being able to meet some of the cast, and it was really cool to see what backstage looked like," Jillian said. "It felt so incredible to be in a professionally-made Broadway costume."

For Adonis, one of the night's biggest surprises was his name being shown on the marquee for that evening's performance.

"When I saw my name on the marquee, I was so shocked," Adonis recounted. "I was like, 'is that my name?!'"

For both Adonis and Jillian, and their families, Make-A-Wish and Disney's commitment to bringing kids' dreams to life has meant the world.

"It's amazing to see my son perform," Adonis' mom said. "To see his craft and his work come to life, I'm just over the moon. I'm excited!"

"Seeing Jillian's light up on stage was just, like, wow," Jillian's mom added.

With a sprinkle of pixie dust, Disney and Make-A-Wish made Jillian and Adonis' dreams come true, and created memories that will last a lifetime.

"Lasting Wishes: A Disney & Make-A-Wish Celebration" is now streaming on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+.

Disney is the parent company of ABC Localish and this station.