The Lion King
Join the Circle of Life at The Lion King musical and sit in awe of this landmark show
Disney’s The Lion King bursts off the stage in a vibrant display of colour, music and special effects that have enchanted audiences of all ages for over 20 years. Winner of several Olivier, Tony and Drama Desk Awards, The Lion King musical is an unmissable theatrical sensation that features a soaring score from Elton John and Tim Rice.
The musical journeys to the heart of the African Savannah, following young lion cub Simba on a journey of betrayal, loyalty and self-discovery. When Simba’s father, King Mufasa, is killed by a stampede of wildebeest, Simba blames himself and leaves the Pridelands. Little does he know that his self-enforced exile was plotted by his evil Uncle Scar, who wants power for himself. Years later, Simba has grown up alongside his new friends, wisecracking meerkat Timon and flatulent warthog Pumbaa. The past soon begins to catch up with him, and with a colourful cast of ensemble characters by his side, Simba must return home, and fight to reclaim his rightful place as King of the Pridelands.
Featuring songs such as “Circle of Life”, “I Just Can’t Wait to be King” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from Elton John and Grammy, Tony, Golden Globe and Academy Award-winner Tim Rice, The Lion King musical is a thrilling production that is enjoyed all around the world, and nowhere more so than in the West End.
Visionary director Julie Taymor brings this beloved story to the stage with stunning stagecraft and a bold vision that redefined audience expectations of live theatre. It is known for the incredible ensemble puppetry that is used to create the Savannah; there are more than 232 puppets on stage at each performance, including rod puppets, shadow puppets and awe-inspiring full-size puppets. From the smallest bird to the largest elephant, this really is a visual delight that has to be seen to be believed!
Taymor also contributed to the musical’s costume design, puppet design and additional lyrics, along with a creative team that includes Lebo M and Mark Mancina (additional music & lyrics, vocals and score alongside Elton John and Tim Rice); Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi who wrote the book; and choreographer Garth Fagan. The jaw-dropping visuals are achieved by Olivier Award-winning scenic designer Richard Hudson; mask and puppet co-designer Michael Curry, who has also worked on Cirque du Soleil and Olympic opening ceremonies; and hair and makeup designer Michael Ward.
A cast of over 50 is led by Owen Chaponda as Simba, Merryl Ansah as Nala, Mark Roper as Pumbaa, Jamie McGregor as Timon, Gary Jordan as Zazu, Thenjiwe Nofemele as Rafiki, Shaun Escoffery as Mufasa, and George Asprey as Scar. Asprey and Escoffery have appeared as Simba’s father, Mufasa, and the villainous Scar in The Lion King since 2008.
After opening on Broadway to rave critical reviews in 1997, The Lion King musical became the hottest ticket in town, and there have been numerous productions across the world ever since – in Taiwan, Mexico, Paris, Las Vegas, and Sydney to name a few. The Lion King soon premiered at London’s Lyceum Theatre in 1999, and is now the sixth longest-running musical ever in the West End – only giants such as The Phantom of the Opera and Blood Brothers have been open for longer!
The Lion King is the perfect musical for any occasion. Families will enjoy seeing the show live on stage, and even the more discerning theatre critics will be blown away by the impressive production values and theatricality. For those new to musicals, this show will be a perfect introduction to the genre, and will inspire repeated theatre visits.
Child Friendly?
The Lion King musical is the perfect show for children and families. It is recommended for ages 6 and up. An adult must accompany anybody aged 16 or under. Please note that children under 3 will not be admitted into the auditorium.