Up-close with the tech behind Disney's 'Aladdin' musical (pictures)

Disney's "Aladdin" opened in New York on March 2014.

Built in 1903, the New Amsterdam Theater is one of the oldest theaters in New York.

The New Amsterdam Theater sits at least 1,700 people.

The show's scenery, sound, lights, video and pyrotechnics are all controlled separately.

CNET takes a backstage look at Disney's "Aladdin."

Deck automation technician Steve Stackle, operates the show from a room below the stage.

The set can change in seconds thanks to scenery that moves on and off stage.

Stackle listens for cues from the stage manager before moving the pieces of scenery to a certain position.

To operate the show, the automation technician uses a small console with a green button that starts the scenery moving.

At times there can be several pieces moving from the air, on stage, and even beneath the stage.

Production stage manager Jimmie Lee Smith manages the cast, the crew and the orchestra with the help of four assistants.

Cast members dance around the elevators while they are open.

The quick lifts are used twice during the show.

These lifts are used to push some of the cast members up on stage at a rate of 12 feet per second.

CNET Producer Sally Neiman got to ride one of the quick lifts.

The stage manager gives the automation technician the cue for the lifts to go.

All the props are stored behind the stage.

Space is limited, so some scenery is stored on large motors hanging above the stage.

Below the stage are two high-speed elevators and hydraulic elevators that lift heavy pieces of scenery.

Sound designer Ken Travis was in charge of designing all the audio coming out of the show.

Some cast members wear a tracker in their microphone belts.

The radars are constantly searching for a signal from the trackers.

The sound of Aladdin was created with one goal in mind: to deliver a big theatrical and cinematic experience.

Engineers divide the stage into 14 zones.

There are seven radars across the auditorium.

There are a total of 200 speakers in the house.

A crew of 60 is required to ensure the show runs smoothly every night.

Six prop-man and six carpenters make sure all props and scenary are always in place.

During the number "Prince Ali" there are 70 quick changes.

All costumes are stored in the bunker, a room underneath the stage.