Disney Legend Alan Menken Reflects on Career, Collaborations, and New ‘Hercules’ Musical
Alan Menken, the musical genius behind Disney classics such as The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin, is bringing his magic to London’s West End once again with the highly anticipated musical adaptation of Hercules, now playing at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane until March 2026.
Menken, who at 75 remains actively involved in new theatrical projects, recently performed two sold-out concerts at the London Palladium—his first solo performances in the UK. Despite a decorated career featuring eight Oscars, 11 Grammys, an Emmy, and a Tony Award, Menken remains a humble, behind-the-scenes creator whose melodies have defined multiple generations.
The journey into Disney history began when Menken teamed up with lyricist Howard Ashman, resulting in an iconic partnership that sparked Disney’s late-20th-century renaissance. The pair created memorable songs such as “Under the Sea,” “Part of Your World,” and “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” each integral to The Little Mermaid‘s phenomenal success. Tragically, Ashman died in 1991 at age 40 from AIDS-related complications, leaving Menken to complete their projects—Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin—with new collaborator Tim Rice.
While Menken’s musical compositions continue to find new audiences through the surge of live-action remakes, the creative process hasn’t always been smooth. Director Bill Condon’s Beauty and the Beast and Rob Marshall’s The Little Mermaid adaptations adhered closely to the original musical frameworks, while filmmaker Guy Ritchie’s action-oriented approach to Aladdin presented creative challenges. Yet, despite differences in vision and occasional controversies surrounding casting and representation, Menken has navigated this evolving landscape gracefully, consistently delivering music that resonates deeply with global audiences.
Now, Hercules, a lively stage adaptation directed by Casey Nicholaw, brings yet another beloved Disney classic to the theatre. Menken’s excitement about the project—long desired by fans—is evident, as he eagerly awaits audience reactions to this latest venture. He remains deeply connected to theatre’s collaborative nature, especially the crucial dialogue between creators and audiences.
For Menken, retirement remains off the horizon. Committed to continuing his work as long as inspiration remains, the composer views his extraordinary career not merely as a profession, but as a lifelong calling and an enduring source of joy.
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