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The Lion King Tour

The Lion King tour has come to an end, but you can still see it in London's West End >> Sign up to our touring alerts and we will let you know when the show goes back on the road.

THE LION KING TOUR

This tour has now concluded.

Official Website: https://thelionking.co.uk

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WHAT IS THE LION KING MUSICAL ABOUT?

A spectacular visual feast, this adaptation of Disney’s classic film transports audiences to a dazzling world that explodes with glorious colours, stunning effects and enchanting music. At the heart of this award-winning musical is the powerful and moving story of Simba – the epic adventure of his journey from wide-eyed cub to his destined role as King of the Pridelands.

Brilliantly reimagined by acclaimed director Julie Taymor, Disney's beloved film has been transformed into a spectacular theatrical experience that explodes with glorious colours, stunning effects and enchanting music. As the sun rises and the city reawakens, watch in awe as giraffes strut, gazelles leap and birds swoop bringing the Serengeti, and the story of Simba, to life all around you… 

Set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains and to the evocative rhythms of Africa, Disney's landmark musical with ingenious puppetry, stunning effects and the enchanting music by Elton John, Tim Rice and Lebo M will redefine your expectations of theatre…

‘There is simply nothing else like it’   – New York Times 

LION KING UK TOUR - CAST & CREATIVE

The casting is as follows for The Lion King 2023 UK Tour:

• Simba – Kyle Richardson
• Scar – Richard Hurst 
• Mufasa – Jean-Luc Guizonne 
• Rafiki – Thandazile Soni 
• Zazu – Matthew Forbes 
• Timon – Alan McHale
• Pumbaa – Carl Sanderson 
• Nala – Nokwanda Khuzwayo
• Shenzi – Candida Mosoma
• Banzai – Jorell Coiffuc-Kamall
• Ed – Alex Bloomer
• Young Nala – Lauren Simpe-Asante / Eva-Arianna Baxter / Ayana Fonso / Serenna Raphaella / Riley-Ann Nicholls Murphy / Jasmine Pottinger-Scott
• Young Simba –  Leo Babet / Jayon Eastman / Amari James / Josiah Robertson / Jayden Salami

including  Khanyisani Beato, Melvin Le Blanc, Rushand Chambers, Elisa Chou, Tau-En Chien, Tevin Daniel, Lwandolwethu Dennis Bam, Tim Driesen, Oraine Frater, Adebunmi Gabriel, Brian Gilligan, Daniel Griffith, Alicia Hayward, Zalika Henry, Caleaf Jamaine Henson, Cristiane De Jesus, Olivia Jones, Jochebel Ohene MacCarthy, Zanele Mazibuko, Fallon Mondlane, Zanele Ndlovu, Buhle Nkomo, Craig Pedro, Tara Price, Lukin Simmonds, Mamido Bomboko Souchu, Kyle Richardson, Sherry Tay, Francesca Thompson, Joaquin Pedro Valdes, Maria Yim, Connor Pelé Williams, Bukiwe Zinganto, Tanisha-Mae Brown, Asmara Cammock, Zodwa Mrasi, Felipe Flores, Reece McKenzie, Aphiwe Nyezi, Peace Nzirawa and Ebby Sama.

• Director –  Julie Taymor
• Music – Elton John
• Lyrics –  Tim Rice
• Book – Irene Mecchi
• Choreographer –  Garth Fagan 3

LION KING UK TOUR TRAILER - WATCH THE VIDEO!

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• Bournemouth
• Derry / Londonderry
• High Wycombe
• Kingston upon Thames
• Milton Keynes
• Newcastle Upon Tyne
• Northampton
• Peterborough
• Southampton
• Southend-on-Sea
• Stockton-on-Tees
• Stoke-on-Trent
• Wolverhampton

Edinburgh Fringe

Musical theatre, backstage & technical, obituaries & archive, training & drama schools, broadway & international, npo 2023-26, jobs & auditions, acting & performance, shakespeare, full cast announced for the lion king uk and ireland tour.

Disney’s The Lion King has revealed the full cast for its UK and Ireland tour, with Stephenson Ardern-Sodje to play the role of Simba.

The company will also include Nokwanda Khuzwayo as Nala, who previously played the role in Germany and Brazil, Alan Mchale as Timon and Owain Rhys Davies as Ed.

They join returning principals Matthew Forbes as Zazu, Jean-Luc Guizonne as Mufasa, Richard Hurst as Scar, Rebecca Omogbehin as Shenzi, Thandazile Soni as Rafiki, Carl Sanderson as Pumbaa and Simon Trinder as Banzai.

The tour opens at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre in Dublin, where it runs from December 23 to February 4, 2022.

It will then visit Bristol, Bradford, Cardiff, Southampton and Manchester, with further locations to be announced.

Other performers in the company include Lwando Bam, Mamido Bomboko Souchu, Khanyisani Beato, Jorell Coiffic-Kamall, Rushand Chambers, Tau-En Chien, Elisa Chou, Tevin Daniel, Tim Driesen, Oraine Frater, Adebunmi Gabriel, Brian Gilligan, Daniel Griffith, Alicia Hayward, Zalika Henry, Caleaf Henson, Olivia Jones, Melvin Le Blanc, Jochebel Maccarthy and Zanele Mazibuko.

The cast is completed by Fallon Mondlane, Zanele Ndlovu, Buhle Nkomo, Craig Pedro, Joaquin Pedro Valdes, Connor Pelé Williams, Tara Price, Kyle Richardson, Cristiane Santos De Jesus, Lukin Simmonds, Sherry Tay, Francesca Thompson, Maria Yim and Bukiwe Zinganto.

The Lion King is directed by Julie Taymor, with choreography by Garth Fagan. It is produced by Disney Theatrical Productions.

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THE LION KING – UK & IRELAND TOUR – FULL CAST ANNOUNCED

⭐ THE LION KING – UK & IRELAND TOUR – FULL CAST ANNOUNCED ⭐

The full cast for the UK and Ireland tour of the landmark musical The Lion King has been announced.

Stephenson Ardern-Sodje will star as Simba. He made his stage debut in the very first West End cast of Hamilton and is currently part of the Globe Theatre 2021 tour.

The Lion King touring company will also be welcoming Nokwanda Khuzwayo as Nala, who previously played the role in Germany and Brazil. Ireland’s Alan Mchale will be returning in a new role as Timon with Cardiff born newcomer Owain Rhys Davies taking the role of Ed.

They will join returning principals Matthew Forbes as Zazu, Jean-Luc Guizonne as Mufasa, Richard Hurst as Scar, Rebecca Omogbehin as Shenzi, Thandazile Soni as Rafiki, Carl Sanderson as Pumbaa and Simon Trinder as Banzai.

The UK & Ireland tour cast also includes Lwando Bam, Mamido Bomboko Souchu, Khanyisani Beato, Jorell Coiffic-Kamall, Rushand Chambers, Tau-En Chien, Elisa Chou, Tevin Daniel, Tim Driesen, Oraine Frater, Adebunmi Gabriel, Brian Gilligan, Daniel Griffith, Alicia Hayward, Zalika Henry, Caleaf Henson, Olivia Jones, Melvin Le Blanc, Jochebel Maccarthy, Zanele Mazibuko, Fallon Mondlane, Zanele Ndlovu, Buhle Nkomo, Craig Pedro, Joaquin Pedro Valdes, Connor Pelé Williams, Tara Price, Kyle Richardson, Cristiane Santos De Jesus, Lukin Simmonds, Sherry Tay, Francesca Thompson, Maria Yim and Bukiwe Zinganto.

The tour will re-open in Dublin this December before moving on to Bristol, Bradford, Cardiff, Southampton and Manchester. Further cities to be announced in due course.

The story of The Lion King roars into life using spectacular masks, puppets, and costumes to tell the story of Simba’s epic adventures, as he struggles with the responsibilities of adulthood and becoming king.

Fabulous! ! !

Thoughts? X x x

Tickets & more info – https://thelionking.co.uk/tour/

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Disney’s the Lion King Reveal Full Cast for UK & Ireland Tour With Stephenson Ardern-Sodje as ‘Simba’

The Walt Disney Company UK and Ireland has today announced the full cast for the UK and Ireland tour of the landmark musical THE LION KING, including a first look at their new Simba played by Stephenson Ardern-Sodje.

After having a career behind the scenes at ITV’s Coronation Street's story room and with Idris Elba’s production company Green Door Pictures, Stephenson Ardern-Sodje made his stage debut in the very first West End cast of Hamilton and is currently part of the Globe Theatre 2021 tour.

THE LION KING touring company will also be welcoming Nokwanda Khuzwayo as Nala, who previously played the role in Germany and Brazil. Ireland’s Alan Mchale will be returning in a new role as Timon with Cardiff born newcomer Owain Rhys Davies taking the role of Ed. They will join returning principals Matthew Forbes as Zazu , Jean-Luc Guizonne as Mufasa , Richard Hurst as Scar , Rebecca Omogbehin as Shenzi, Thandazile Soni as Rafiki , Carl Sanderson as Pumbaaand Simon Trinder as Banzai .

The tour will re-open in Dublin this December before moving on to Bristol, Bradford, Cardiff, Southampton and Manchester . Further cities to be announced in due course. 

The story of THE LION KING roars into life using spectacular masks, puppets, and costumes to tell the story of Simba's epic adventures, as he struggles with the responsibilities of adulthood and becoming king.

Having played in more than 100 cities in 20 countries on every continent except Antarctica, THE LION KING’s worldwide gross exceeds that of any film, Broadway show or other entertainment title in box office history. The landmark musical has now been seen by over 110 million people worldwide.

The UK & Ireland tour cast also includes: Lwando Bam, Mamido Bomboko Souchu, Khanyisani Beato, Jorell Coiffic-Kamall, Rushand Chambers, Tau-En Chien, Elisa Chou, Tevin Daniel, Tim Driesen, Oraine Frater, Adebunmi Gabriel, Brian Gilligan, Daniel Griffith, Alicia Hayward, Zalika Henry, Caleaf Henson, Olivia Jones, Melvin Le Blanc, Jochebel Maccarthy, Zanele Mazibuko, Fallon Mondlane, Zanele Ndlovu, Buhle Nkomo, Craig Pedro, Joaquin Pedro Valdes, Connor Pelé Williams, Tara Price, Kyle Richardson, Cristiane Santos De Jesus, Lukin Simmonds, Sherry Tay, Francesca Thompson, Maria Yim and Bukiwe Zinganto. 

Julie Taymor’s internationally celebrated stage adaptation of THE LION KING opened on Broadway in 1997 and 25 global productions in nine different languages have been created since then (English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Dutch, Spanish, Mandarin and Portuguese). THE LION KING is produced by Disney Theatrical Productions, under the direction of Thomas Schumacher. 

The previous tour of THE LION KING broke attendance records across the nation. Since the UK premiere in 1999, THE LION KING London has entertained more than 16 million theatregoers and is the sixth longest-running West End musical of all time.   

The stunning artistry of the production is the work of a team of designers which drew on diverse cultural influences to recreate the rich colours and vast expanses of the African savanna in this daring and inspiring reinvention of one of the most successful animated feature films of all time. 

Julie Taymor, one of the world’s most innovative directors, brought a vast array of disciplines to THE LION KING, including extensive experience staging epic theatre and opera productions, exploring classic myths through ritualised puppetry, mask, and movement. The Lion King was the first musical Taymor directed in the commercial theatre and she made Broadway history by becoming the first woman to win the Tony Award® for Best Director of a Musical.   

The Broadway show’s full creative team, which won five Tony Awards® for its work on THE LION KING, reunited in 1999 to recreate the show in London. Julie Taymor and Michael Curry created hundreds of masks and puppets.

Scenic design is by British designer Richard Hudson and lighting is by Donald Holder. Costume design is by Julie Taymor, and choreography by Garth Fagan. The book was adapted by Roger Allers, who co-directed the animated feature and Irene Mecchi, who co-wrote the screenplay. 

The original score from the animated film was expanded for the stage and now features 15 musical numbers.  As well as writing completely new songs, South African composer Lebo M created an evocative blend of African rhythms and chorales, with additional material by Julie Taymor and Mark Mancina. Elton John and Tim Rice have added three new numbers to the five that they wrote for the award-winning score of the animated film.  The resulting sound of THE LION KING is a fusion of Western popular music and the distinctive sounds and rhythms of Africa, including the Academy Award®-winning Can You Feel The Love Tonight and the haunting Shadowland. 

THE LION KING is at the Alhambra Theatre, Bradford 24 March - 28 May 2022

The Lion King | The Alhambra Theatre | Official Vendor (bradford-theatres.co.uk)  

(Please note this is a rescheduled show)

www.bradford-theatres.co.uk  / 01274 432000

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About the Show

• About the show
• The Lion King Characters
• The Lion King Music
• The Lyceum Theatre
• Cast and Creative Team

The Lion King Disney's Award-winning Musical

Disney's The Lion King is now in its 25th triumphant year at the Lyceum Theatre in London. To book your tickets, or to just view the seats and prices available, click on a performance time on the calendar below.

More dates on sale soon - check back regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Show & Venue Info

What are the lion king performance times.

Tuesday to Saturday at 7:30pm Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday at 2:30pm We recommend you arrive at least 60 minutes before the performance start time to pass through security checks and find your seats.

How long is the show?

The performance lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes including an interval.

Is there a minimum age requirement to attend the show?

We recommend The Lion King for ages 6+. Children under the age of 3 (including babies in arms) will not be admitted into the theatre. All persons aged 16 or under must be accompanied by an adult and may not sit on their own within the auditorium. All persons entering the theatre, regardless of age, must have a ticket.

Does the performance have any special effects?

The Lion King contains theatrical smoke and fog effects as well as strobe lighting during parts of the show.

Is photography allowed in the theatre?

The use of camera and sound recording equipment is strictly prohibited.

Is official show merchandise available to purchase?

Merchandise is available to purchase before and after the show, and during the interval inside the theatre. Our merchandise kiosks accept payment by card only. If you have a query about merchandise purchased at the venue, please contact [email protected] .

What should I wear?

There is no dress code at the theatre. For all performances, attire should be comfortable and appropriate for the occasion.

How do I get to the Lyceum Theatre?

The theatre address is Lyceum Theatre, 21 Wellington Street, London, WC2E 7RQ. The Lyceum Theatre is close to several National Rail / London Underground stations, multiple bus stops that are serviced by different routes and there is a self-hire bike docking station directly outside the theatre. For details and to help plan your journey visit Transport for London .

By underground and train

The nearest stations are: • Covent Garden – Piccadilly line • Charing Cross – Southeastern, Bakerloo & Northern lines • Embankment – Bakerloo, Northern, District & Circle lines • Temple – District & Circle lines • Leicester Square – Piccadilly & Northern lines • Holborn – Piccadilly & Central lines • Waterloo & Waterloo East – Southeastern, South West Trains, Bakerloo, Northern & Jubilee lines

To reach the theatre by bus, use numbers 1, 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 68, 77A, 91, 176 or 341 with Leicester Square as the destination. The closest bus interchange for all London routes and night buses is Trafalgar Square.

Parking: If you're driving into the West End to see the show, take advantage of the Q-Park Theatreland Parking Scheme saving you 50% off car parking for up to 4 hours. For full terms and conditions and to book at participating car parks and locations in advance, visit Q-Park . Alternatively, the nearest NCP car parks are on Parker Street, Museum Street, Holborn and the St. Martin’s Lane Hotel.

There are two Santander Cycle Hire docking spaces located close to the theatre. Find out more about how to use this scheme by visiting Transport for London .

Ticket Info

Can i speak to someone about my booking.

If you booked through Disney Tickets, please contact the Disney Guest Services centre, via email on [email protected] or via phone on 0800 640 8101, lines are open 7 days a week from 10am to 7pm. If you booked via ATG Tickets or the Lyceum Theatre Box Office, please visit ATG . If you booked elsewhere, please contact your point of purchase.

Can I book tickets over the telephone?

To book tickets over the phone call the Lyceum Theatre box office on 0844 871 3000. Calls cost 7p per min, plus your phone company’s access charge.

Are day seats available?

Magical Mondays offers you the chance to purchase seats for participating Disney Shows for £29.50. Every Monday at noon, a number of tickets for that week’s performances will be available for £29.50, through the Disney Tickets website. These tickets sell quickly - we recommend logging in early. Find out more on the Disney Tickets website .

Accessibility

When is the next access performance scheduled.

You can find out about the different types of access performances and how to book on our access page .

How do I find out about access facilities at the theatre?

The Lyceum Theatre is fully accessible to disabled, deaf and visually impaired guests. Guide Dogs are welcome in an auditorium or can alternatively be left in the care of the theatre staff. If you intend to being a guide dog, please advise at the time of booking. If you have any specific requirements or questions please call 0800 912 6971 or email [email protected]

How do I book access concessions?

Disabled, deaf and visually impaired concessions can be booked over the phone on 0800 912 6971 , in person at the Box Office, or by emailing [email protected]

Cast & Creative Team

Be a part of the Disney family – find out more on the Disney On Stage site!

Follow The Lion King on Social

Disney’s The Lion King reveals cast for UK & Ireland Tour

The Walt Disney Company UK and Ireland has today announced the full cast for the UK and Ireland tour of the landmark musical THE LION KING, including a first look at their new Simba played by Stephenson Ardern-Sodje.

After having a career behind the scenes at ITV’s Coronation Street’s story room and with Idris Elba’s production company Green Door Pictures, Stephenson Ardern-Sodje made his stage debut in the very first West End cast of Hamilton and is currently part of the Globe Theatre 2021 tour.

THE LION KING touring company will also be welcoming Nokwanda Khuzwayo as Nala, who previously played the role in Germany and Brazil. Ireland’s Alan Mchale will be returning in a new role as Timon with Cardiff born newcomer Owain Rhys Davies taking the role of Ed. They will join returning principals Matthew Forbes as Zazu, Jean-Luc Guizonne as Mufasa, Richard Hurst as Scar, Rebecca Omogbehin as Shenzi, Thandazile Soni as Rafiki, Carl Sanderson as Pumbaa and Simon Trinder as Banzai.

The tour will re-open in Dublin this December before moving on to Bristol, Bradford, Cardiff, Southampton and Manchester. Further cities to be announced in due course.

The story of THE LION KING roars into life using spectacular masks, puppets, and costumes to tell the story of Simba’s epic adventures, as he struggles with the responsibilities of adulthood and becoming king.

Having played in more than 100 cities in 20 countries on every continent except Antarctica, THE LION KING’s worldwide gross exceeds that of any film, Broadway show or other entertainment titles in box office history. The landmark musical has now been seen by over 110 million people worldwide.

The UK & Ireland tour cast also includes: Lwando Bam, Mamido Bomboko Souchu, Khanyisani Beato, Jorell Coiffic-Kamall, Rushand Chambers, Tau-En Chien, Elisa Chou, Tevin Daniel, Tim Driesen, Oraine Frater, Adebunmi Gabriel, Brian Gilligan, Daniel Griffith, Alicia Hayward, Zalika Henry, Caleaf Henson, Olivia Jones, Melvin Le Blanc, Jochebel Maccarthy, Zanele Mazibuko, Fallon Mondlane, Zanele Ndlovu, Buhle Nkomo, Craig Pedro, Joaquin Pedro Valdes, Connor Pelé Williams, Tara Price, Kyle Richardson, Cristiane Santos De Jesus, Lukin Simmonds, Sherry Tay, Francesca Thompson, Maria Yim and Bukiwe Zinganto.

Julie Taymor’s internationally-celebrated stage adaptation of THE LION KING opened on Broadway in 1997 and 25 global productions in nine different languages have been created since then (English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Dutch, Spanish, Mandarin and Portuguese). THE LION KING is produced by Disney Theatrical Productions, under the direction of Thomas Schumacher.

The previous tour of THE LION KING broke attendance records across the nation. Since the UK premiere in 1999, THE LION KING London has entertained more than 16 million theatregoers and is the sixth longest-running West End musical of all time.

The stunning artistry of the production is the work of a team of designers which drew on diverse cultural influences to recreate the rich colours and vast expanses of the African savanna in this daring and inspiring reinvention of one of the most successful animated feature films of all time.

Julie Taymor, one of the world’s most innovative directors, brought a vast array of disciplines to THE LION KING, including extensive experience staging epic theatre and opera productions, exploring classic myths through ritualised puppetry, mask, and movement. The Lion King was the first musical Taymor directed in the commercial theatre and she made Broadway history by becoming the first woman to win the Tony Award® for Best Director of a Musical.

The Broadway show’s full creative team, which won five Tony Awards® for its work on THE LION KING, reunited in 1999 to recreate the show in London. Julie Taymor and Michael Curry created hundreds of masks and puppets.

Scenic design is by British designer Richard Hudson and lighting is by Donald Holder. Costume design is by Julie Taymor, and choreography by Garth Fagan. The book was adapted by Roger Allers, who co-directed the animated feature and Irene Mecchi, who co-wrote the screenplay.

The original score from the animated film was expanded for the stage and now features 15 musical numbers. As well as writing completely new songs, South African composer Lebo M created an evocative blend of African rhythms and chorales, with additional material by Julie Taymor and Mark Mancina.

Elton John and Tim Rice have added three new numbers to the five that they wrote for the award-winning score of the animated film. The resulting sound of THE LION KING is a fusion of Western popular music and the distinctive sounds and rhythms of Africa, including the Academy Award®-winning Can You Feel The Love Tonight and the haunting Shadowland.

LISTINGS The Lion King UK & Ireland Tour

Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin 23 Dec 2021 – 4 Feb 2022

Bristol Hippodrome 17 Feb – 19 Mar 2022

Alhambra Theatre, Bradford 24 March – 28 May 2022

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff 7 Jul – 27 Aug 2022

Mayflower Theatre, Southampton 8 Sep – 15 Oct 2022

Palace Theatre, Manchester 27 Oct – 24 Dec 2022

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Disney's The Lion King UK & Ireland tour welcomes new cast members including Kyle Richardson as 'Simba'

28 Nov 2022

The UK and Ireland Tour of Disney’s The Lion King will welcome 12 new members to its cast of over 50 actors, singers and dancers this winter. The award winning landmark musical is currently playing a season at Manchester Palace before arriving at Birmingham Hippodrome in July 2023.

The newcomers join a talented international company from 17 c ountries around the world. 

Kyle Richardson will be stepping into the role of Simba. From St Kitts in the Caribbean, Kyle has previously performed in the show as part of the ensemble in Madrid and is in the current UK & Ireland production. 

The Lion King   also welcomes Alex Bloomer as Ed and Candida Mosoma as Shenzi and current ensemble cast member Jorell Coiffic-Kamall will be taking on the role of Banzai. The ensemble cast will be joined by Tanisha-Mae Brown, Asmara Cammock, Zodwa Mrasi, Felipe Flores, Reece McKenzie, Aphiwe Nyezi, Peace Nzirawa and Ebby Sama . The new cast will join the production from Sunday 11 December.

The newly announced cast members join principals Matthew Forbes as Zazu, Jean-Luc Guizonne as Mufasa, Richard Hurst as Scar, Nokwanda Khuzwayo as Nala, Alan McHale as Timon, Thandazile Soni as Rafiki and Carl Sanderson as Pumbaa.

The UK & Ireland tour cast also includes: Khanyisani Beato, Tanisha-Mae Brown, Mamido Bomboko Souchu, Asmara Cammock, Bethany Chan, Tau-En Chien, Elisa Chou, Tevin Daniel, Lwandolwethu Dennis Bam, Tim Driesen, Felipe Flores, Oraine Frater, Adebunmi Gabriel, Brian Gilligan, Daniel Griffith, Gavin Hart, Caleaf Henson, Dillan Hope Suttle, Olivia Jones, Melvin Le Blanc, Reece Mackenzie, Zanele Mazibuko, Zodwa Mrasi, Zanele Ndlovu, Buhle Nkomo, Aphiwe Nyezi, Peace Runyararo Nzirawa, Ebby Sama, Cristiane Santos De Jesus,  Francesca Thompson, Vuyelwa Laura Tshona, Ricardo Walker, Maria Yim and Bukiwe Zinganto.

The story of The Lion King roars into life using spectacular masks, puppets and costumes to tell the story of Simba’s epic adventures, as he struggles with the responsibilities of adulthood and becoming king.

Julie Taymor’s internationally celebrated stage adaptation of The Lion King opened on Broadway in 1997 and 25 global productions in nine different languages have been created since then (English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Dutch, Spanish, Mandarin and Portuguese). The Lion King is produced by Disney Theatrical Productions, under the direction of Thomas Schumacher. 

The previous tour of The Lion King broke attendance records across the nation, including at the Palace Theatre in Manchester. Since the UK premiere in 1999, The Lion King London has entertained more than 18 million theatregoers and is the sixth longest-running West End musical of all time.   

The stunning artistry of the production is the work of a team of designers which drew on diverse cultural influences to recreate the rich colours and vast expanses of the African savanna in this daring and inspiring reinvention of one of the most successful animated feature films of all time. 

Julie Taymor, one of the world’s most innovative directors, brought a vast array of disciplines to The Lion King , including extensive experience staging epic theatre and opera productions, exploring classic myths through ritualised puppetry, mask, and movement. The Lion King was the first musical Taymor directed in the commercial theatre and she made Broadway history by becoming the first woman to win the Tony Award® for Best Director of a Musical.   

The Broadway show’s full creative team, which won five Tony Awards® for its work on The Lion King , reunited in 1999 to recreate the show in London. Julie Taymor and Michael Curry created hundreds of masks and puppets.   

Scenic design is by British designer Richard Hudson and lighting is by Donald Holder. Costume design is by Julie Taymor, and choreography by Garth Fagan. The book was adapted by Roger Allers, who co-directed the animated feature and Irene Mecchi, who co-wrote the screenplay. 

The original score from the animated film was expanded for the stage and now features 15 musical numbers.  As well as writing completely new songs, South African composer Lebo M created an evocative blend of African rhythms and chorales, with additional material by Julie Taymor and Mark Mancina. 

Elton John and Tim Rice have added three new numbers to the five that they wrote for the award-winning score of the animated film. The resulting sound of The Lion King is a fusion of Western popular music and the distinctive sounds and rhythms of Africa, including the Academy Award®-winning Can You Feel The Love Tonight and the haunting Shadowland. 

The Lion King comes to Birmingham  for 10 weeks from  Thursday 6 July  to  Saturday 16 September 2023.

Click here to book tickets for The Lion King  or call 0844 338 5000*

*0844 calls will cost you 4.5p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

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The Lion King tour

Currently touring until 19 August 2024

Disney's The Lion King will be touring the UK throughout 2020 and into 2021, alongside its ongoing run in the West End. Based on the all-time classic animated film, The Lion King is set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains to the evocative rhythms of Africa. Exploding with glorious colours, stunning effects and enchanting music, it tells the timeless story of Simba and his epic journey to fulfil his destiny as King of the Pridelands.

The Lion King is touring the UK 2023 – here’s all you need to know.

The new UK tour of Disney’s The Lion King will celebrate the show’s 20th anniversary since premiering in London.

Based on the all-time classic animated film, The Lion King is set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains to the evocative rhythms of Africa. Exploding with glorious colours, stunning effects and enchanting music, it tells the timeless story of Simba and his epic journey to fulfil his destiny as King of the Pridelands.

Lion King UK tour dates and tickets

Sorry, no more tour dates are currently scheduled for this show! Check back soon for new dates in the near future.

Further dates will be announced soon.

Director Julie Taymor made Broadway history by becoming the first woman to win the Tony Award® for ’Best Director of a Musical’ for her work on the production, which features incredible staging and puppets.

The Lion King opened in London in October 1999, two years after the original Broadway production, and has been seen by over 95 million people across the world.

The upcoming tour is the second in the UK after the first outing between 2012 and 2015.

Lion King UK tour cast

The current Lion King UK tour cast sees Aphiwe Nyezi play Simba with Janique Charles as Nala until 16 September and Nokwanda Khuzwayo as Nala from 28 September.

Alan Mchale plays Timon, Carl Sanderson plays Pumbaa, Andre Jewson plays Zazu, Jean-Luc Guizonne plays Mufasa, Alex Bloomer plays Ed, Candida Mosoma plays Shenzi, Thandazile Soni plays Rafiki, Jorell Coiffic-Kamall plays Banzai and Brian Gilligan plays Scar.

Completing the company are: Lwandolwethu Dennis Bam, Khanyisani Beato, Melvin Le Blanc,Tanisha-Mae Brown, Tanisha-Mae Brown, Asmara Cammock, Asmara Cammock, Bethany Chan, Tau-En Chien, Elisa Chou, Tevin Daniel, Tim Driesen, Felipe Flores, Felipe Flores, Oraine Frater, Adebunmi Gabriel, Brian Gilligan, Daniel Griffith, Gavin Hart, Caleaf Henson, Cristiane Santos De Jesus, Olivia Jones, Reece Mackenzie, Zanele Mazibuko, Reece McKenzie, Zodwa Mrasi, Zodwa Mrasi, Zanele Ndlovu, Buhle Nkomo, Aphiwe Nyezi, Aphiwe Nyezi, Peace Nzirawa , Peace Runyararo Nzirawa,Ebby Sama, Ebby Sama, Mamido Bomboko Souchu, Dillan Hope Suttle, Francesca Thompson, Vuyelwa Laura Tshona, Ricardo Walker, Maria Yim and Bukiwe Zinganto

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Disney's The Lion King UK & Ireland Tour welcomes new cast members

The UK & Ireland Tour of Disney’s award-winning musical , The Lion King , will welcome new cast members including Aphiwe Nyezi as ‘Simba’, Brian Gilligan as ‘Scar’ and Andre Jewson as ‘Zazu’, beginning on Tuesday 5 September 2023. 

The newcomers join a talented international company who represent 17 countries around the world whilst the show plays its season in Birmingham , before moving on to Dublin’s Bord Gáis Energy Theatre.

Aphiwe Nyezi was born in Cape Town, South Africa and is currently a member of The Lion King company in London’s West End. Brian Gilligan, from Dublin, Ireland, is currently covering the role of ‘Scar’ in UK & Ireland Tour cast and has featured in numerous stage productions including Romeo & Juliet at Mill Theatre Dublin and Jimmy’s Hall at Abbey Theatre Dublin. Australia’s Andre Jewson has played ‘Zazu’ across the globe in the International Tour and Australian Tour of The Lion King .

They are joined by existing principal cast members Thandazile Soni as ‘Rafiki’, Jean-Luc Guizonne as ‘Mufasa’, Janique Charles as ‘Nala’ (until 16 Sep), Nokwanda Khuzwayo as ‘Nala’ (from 28 Sep), Alan McHale as ‘Timon’ and Carl Sanderson as ‘Pumba’.

Also joining the cast are Aleasha Grace, Francessca Daniella-Baker, Phumelele Jili, Joshua Lloyd, Abon Saliljan, Keorapetse Sebokolodi and Karlene Wray.

The Lion King is currently playing a limited season at Birmingham Hippodrome until Saturday 16 September with some good seats still remaining for midweek performances in August and September. The production will then return to Dublin’s Bord Gáis Energy Theatre from Thursday 28 September - Saturday 11 November 2023 where it completes its UK and Ireland Tour.

The story of The Lion King leaps into life using spectacular masks, puppets and costumes to tell the story of Simba's epic adventures, as he struggles with the responsibilities of adulthood and becoming king.

Julie Taymor’s internationally celebrated stage adaptation of The Lion King opened on Broadway in 1997 and 25 global productions in nine different languages have been created since then (English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Dutch, Spanish, Mandarin and Portuguese). The Lion King is produced by Disney Theatrical Productions, under the direction of Thomas Schumacher. 

Since the UK premiere in 1999, The Lion King London has entertained more than 18 million theatregoers and is the sixth longest-running West End musical of all time. 

The stunning artistry of the production is the work of a team of designers which drew on diverse cultural influences to recreate the rich colours and vast expanses of the African savanna in this daring and inspiring reinvention of one of the most successful animated feature films of all time. 

Julie Taymor, one of the world’s most innovative directors, brought a vast array of disciplines to The Lion King , including extensive experience staging epic theatre and opera productions, exploring classic myths through ritualised puppetry, mask, and movement. The Lion King was the first musical Taymor directed in the commercial theatre and she made Broadway history by becoming the first woman to win the Tony Award® for Best Director of a Musical.   

The Broadway show’s full creative team, which won five Tony Awards® for its work on The Lion King , reunited in 1999 to recreate the show in London. Julie Taymor and Michael Curry created hundreds of masks and puppets. 

Scenic design is by British designer Richard Hudson and lighting is by Donald Holder. Costume design is by Julie Taymor, and choreography by Garth Fagan. The book was adapted by Roger Allers, who co-directed the animated feature and Irene Mecchi, who co-wrote the screenplay. 

The original score from the animated film was expanded for the stage and now features 15 musical numbers.  As well as writing completely new songs, South African composer Lebo M created an evocative blend of African rhythms and chorales, with additional material by Julie Taymor and Mark Mancina. 

Elton John and Tim Rice have added three new numbers to the five that they wrote for the award-winning score of the animated film. The resulting sound of The Lion King  is a fusion of Western popular music and the distinctive sounds and rhythms of Africa, including the Academy Award®-winning Can You Feel The Love Tonight and the haunting Shadowland. 

The Lion King runs at Birmingham Hippodrome until 16 September . For best availability check midweek performances in August and September. Tickets can be booked at www.birminghamhippodrome.com or by calling 0844 338 5000*

 *0844 calls will cost you 4.5p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

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Complete cast for The Lion King tour revealed

The show opens on tour in December

21 October 2021

We've just revealed The Lion King 's new Simba , Stephenson Ardern-Sodje, so we thought we'd run down who else will be in the musical!

Joining the show in principal roles will be Nokwanda Khuzwayo (Nala), Alan McHale (Timon) and Owain Rhys Davies (Ed).

They will perform alongside returning principals Matthew Forbes (Zazu), Jean-Luc Guizonne (Mufasa), Richard Hurst (Scar), Rebecca Omogbehin (Shenzi), Thandazile Soni (Rafiki), Carl Sanderson (Pumbaa) and Simon Trinder (Banzai).

Completing the company are Lwando Bam, Mamido Bomboko Souchu, Khanyisani Beato, Jorell Coiffic-Kamall, Rushand Chambers, Tau-En Chien, Elisa Chou, Tevin Daniel, Tim Driesen, Oraine Frater, Adebunmi Gabriel, Brian Gilligan, Daniel Griffith, Alicia Hayward, Zalika Henry, Caleaf Henson, Olivia Jones, Melvin Le Blanc, Jochebel Maccarthy, Zanele Mazibuko, Fallon Mondlane, Zanele Ndlovu, Buhle Nkomo, Craig Pedro, Joaquin Pedro Valdes, Connor Pelé Williams, Tara Price, Kyle Richardson, Cristiane Santos De Jesus, Lukin Simmonds, Sherry Tay, Francesca Thompson, Maria Yim and Bukiwe Zinganto

Julie Taymor's production, based on the animated classic of the same name, features scenic design by Richard Hudson and lighting by Donald Holder.

Costume design is by Taymor, and choreography by Garth Fagan. The book was adapted by Roger Allers, who co-directed the animated feature and Irene Mecchi, who co-wrote the screenplay. Michael O'Donnell is the resident director for the tour.

Tour dates are on sale for select dates below.

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The lion king, tagged in this story, brian gilligan, choreography, donald holder, garth fagan, irene mecchi, richard hudson, roger allers, simon trinder, stephenson ardern-sodje, tim driesen, latest reviews.

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Cast & Creative

West End: Trimmingham in The Go-Between; The Producers original London cast; Phantom of the Opera; Snoopy! UK Regional Freddy Eynsford-Hill in My Fair Lady (NT/Cameron Mackintosh) , Twelfth Night, By Jeeves, Don Giovanni, Over My Shoulder . Europe: Magaldi in Evita . US Tour: Captain Hook in Peter Pan 360 . Film: Brideshead Revisited, Bright Young Things . Twitter: @carlilestephen Instagram: @carlile1

Is excited to rejoin The Broadway Company of The Lion King after traveling with The National Tour, during which time he had the honor of performing at The White House. NYC/Regional: Ataria, Cutman, G word, Miss Saigon, Songs For A New World, Godspell, A Chorus Line, Film and Television: “The Electric Company” (Leo Watson), “Last of The Ninth” (HBO Pilot), Made For Each Other , Expiration Date , Game Over . Always for Granny and Boogie. Twitter/Instagram @ lsteventaylor

Tshidi toured Europe and Japan with M. Bongeni Ngema in the hit musical Sarafina . Other stage credits: Rafiki in the Broadway and Toronto productions of The Lion King , Daughter of Nebo by Hillary Bletcher, Mfowethu by Gibson Kente, The Stick by Aubrey Sekhabi. Honored to have performed with legendary artists such as Paul Simon, David Byrne, Hugh Masekela, Jabu Khanyile, Vusi Mahlasela. Album: Sisters of Joy. Thank you God.

Cameron rejoins the Broadway company having previously performed in the London and First National Touring productions of The Lion King. Off-Broadway: The 39 Steps (Union Square Theatre), Accidentally Like A Martyr (Other Side Productions), Comedy of Errors, King Lear, The Iliad-Book One (Aquila Theatre Company). Regional/Touring: Henry V, Julius Caesar, Art, The Tempest, The Wrath of Achilles, Oedipus. TV: “The Good Fight,” “Blindspot,” “The Blacklist,” “Person of Interest,” “Falling Water,” “Deception,” “Pan Am,” “Basile” (Pilot), “OM-City” (Web Series – 2016 Tribeca Film Festival). Film: Henry, The Dead Part of You, The Tramps New World. Instagram: @cameronpow

Ben is pumped to be making his Broadway debut! Ben holds an MFA (Acting) from Rutgers University, where credits included Antigone , Romeo and Juliet , In the Sawtooths and more. His BFA (Acting/Musical Theatre) is from Abilene Christian University, where credits included Jane Eyre and Seussical . TV: “The Good Wife,” “Louie.” Endless thanks to God, his incomparable wife and the family.

Broadway:  The Lion King.   Off-Broadway:  The Normal Heart ,  Shockheaded Peter, Bury the Dead, Room Service, The Vocal Lords.   Regional: NSMT, Paper Mill, Geva, New Repertory, Cleveland Playhouse. Tours:  The Buddy Holly Story, White Christmas.  Film/TV:  Putzel, Twelve Thirty, A Very Special Episode,   “New Amsterdam,” “Forever,” “Smash,” “L&O,” “L&O: CI,” “Daily Pops,” “All My Children . ” Directing:  Trans Am  (Keegan Theatre). Podcasts:  Opening Weekend.  Award-winning narrator of over 300 audio books. Love to Kate, Benjamin and Isabella! For Mom and Dad.

Broadway debut! Vincent has performed around the world in multiple companies of Hamilton (including in Puerto Rico alongside Lin-Manuel Miranda) playing the roles of Hamilton, Burr, Lafayette/Jefferson, George Washington and KGIII. Off Broadway: White Girl in Danger; Regional: Passing Strange, In the Heights, The Great Society, Hairspray; TV/Film: “Chicago Med” (NBC), “Shots Fired” (FOX), and “American Crime” (ABC). IG: @_ vincentjamalhooper. If you’re reading this — thank you.

From Durban South Africa, Pearl performed in The Lion King Madrid (2016-2018). She also toured with the KZN Youth Choir (2012-2015) competing in Poland and Italy where she won best female soloist in the Florence International Choir Festival (2013).

James Brown-Orleans originated the role of Banzai on The Lion King Gazelle Tour and is thrilled to be part of the Broadway company. James can be seen as Doc Motors in Disney’s The Princess Diaries . He is also the founder of Protected by Imagination Inc. “media to inspire.” Check out his website to find out more about his passion to empower.

A native of Montgomery, AL. Bonita is a proud graduate of Alabama State University and Brandeis University (MFA). She is overjoyed and grateful to be a part of this talented cast. Credits: NYC/ Regional: Mandela the Musical (staged reading), The Color Purple (workshop), Guys and Dolls , The Piano Lesson , The Old Settler and In the Blood . TV: “The Knick” (HBO). Bonita is a voiceover artist and can be heard on film, podcasts, commercials and animated series. Many Thanks to God, my family, Dr. Tommie (Tonea) Stewart, My husband Neil Caesar and our lovely children Nia and Noah. https://www.bonitahamilton.com/

Robb is overjoyed to return to  The Lion King , having   previously appeared in the 1st National, North American and Las Vegas companies. Broadway:  Wicked  (Boq),  Shrek  (Pinocchio). Off-Broadway:  Happiness  (Lincoln Center),  Enter Laughing (cast recording), Disaster!, Zanna, Don’t! (cast recording), Johnny   Guitar (cast recording).  Regional: Paper Mill Playhouse, Goodspeed, The MUNY, Music Theatre Wichita, Syracuse Stage, Barrington Stage Company, Bristol Riverside, ACT of CT, Ogunquit Playhouse. Other:  Saturday Night Fever  (1st National Tour). Robb holds a BFA from Syracuse University.

Annika is thrilled to be making her Broadway debut! She would like to thank her friends and family, teachers, and agent and manager for their love and support. She is also grateful to Disney, the casting team, and the Dr Phillips Center in Orlando for believing in her. IG: @annika_reese

Ezekiel Kekuna is thrilled to be making his Broadway debut as Young Simba! Born and raised in Hawaii, he began performing with I’m A Bright Kid and 24-7 Danceforce Studio. He would like to thank God, his family for their love and support, and especially Mom for being the best! @ ezekiel.kekuna

AJ is delivering his professional debut as a 10 year old Chicago native. Albert is a talented, actor, dancer, singer and content creator who is following in the footsteps of his talented sister @kalandrarhodes who once played Young Nala in The Lion King North American Tour! Albert mastered his craft at Debbie Allen Dance Academy, Chi CDT, Uniting Voices Chicago and a commercial for Target (United Way) Follow on IG and Facebook @Albertrhodesj

Nia is making her Broadway debut in The Lion King. Nia is best known for singing Disney’s hit “Super Bonnet” in “Rise Up, Sing Out.” She’s enjoyed recurring roles in “Ada Twist Scientist” and “Godfather of Harlem” and can be seen next in “Sesame Street” and in Hulu’s “Washington Black.” AuthenticNia.com @ AuthenticNia

Overjoyed to be making his Broadway debut! Regional: Ragtime , Big River , Beauty and the Beast . Thank God for blessing me with this opportunity and to all my friends and family who’ve supported me along the way.  IG: King_Ezekiela #invictus

Regional premiere of Kander & Ebb’s Scottsboro Boys. THE LION KING Las Vegas. Nat’l tours: 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, How the Grinch Stole Christmas . New York: Showboat (Carnegie Hall), Godspell (workshop), Disney’s High School Musical 2 , Respect (NYSAF); TV: CBS “My Broadway Debut.” University of Michigan.

Lindiwe Dlamini , an original cast member, has appeared in Sarafina! (Broadway and national tour). Performances: Radio City Music Hall, Pocahontas in Central Park, Grover Washington, “Arsenio , ” “David Letterman , ” “ Jay Leno,” 1998 Tony Awards® and Essence Awards.

Gilbert is making his Broadway Debut! Regional credits include: The Muny, Steppenwolf, Yale Rep. Gilbert is grateful to God for every opportunity to do what he loves, and to his family and friends for their unending support!

Zinhle was born in Durban South Africa. She has worked with many South African artists. In 2010 she won pop stars South Africa formed a group called Nne-vida. In 2013 she joined The Lion King UK tour. In 2016 she joined The Lion King London cast. In 2017 she performed with Elton John at the Evening Standard Awards.

Bongi Duma was born in Durban, South Africa. Credits: Africa Africa; Mighty Zulu Nation across England, Italy and Ireland. Composer: Generations (Drama Desk Nom.). Thanks to African heroes Ian Sotrey, Duma Ndlovu, Lebo M and my beautiful Mother. Original cast, The Lion King (Germany).

Angelica Edwards is making her Broadway debut. She has danced with Ronald K. Brown/Evidence, Kevin Iega Jeff/Deeply Rooted and the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Theatre, and received her BFA from Ohio State University. She thanks God.

This adorable, middle-aged man has been in multiple companies of The Lion King. Seen in many Film /TV roles, you may recognize Jim as “that short guy from that show”. He is the Producer of the hit, comedy podcast: “Dear Pod” and is married to standup comedian and goodtime gal, Erin Maguire. Follow him on Instagram @ callmejimferris . He desperately needs the numbers

Shawn Alynda Fisher (Ensemble). Broadway debut! National Tours: Fela! ; The Prom (1st National). Favorite Regional: Chicago , The Music Man (Zaneeta), Anne of Green Gables , Bring it On (world premiere). A Kansas native. Alumna of The Ailey School and Kansas State University. Endless gratitude to Jesus, family and friends! Matthew 5:16

A Bronx native. Paige is graduate of Ailey/Fordham BFA. She is a Princess Grace Award recipient (2016) and Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch” (2017). Dance Companies: AileyII, Visceral Dance Chicago and Deeply Rooted. TV/Commercial: Intel, ESPN, Elle Magazine, Empire (FOX). Theatre: West Side Story (Lyric Opera) and The Lion King Rafiki Tour. She is thrilled to be making her Broadway debut in The Lion King . IG: @lovingthispaige .  www.paigefraser.net

Originally from Bowie, MD, Daniel graduated from the Ailey/Fordham B.F.A. program and performed extensively across the U.S. and abroad with the Ailey company for ten years. He has worked with Debbie Allen, Donald McKayle, Christopher L. Huggins and Camille A. Brown.

Born in the West Indies, Michael earned a Theatre degree from Penn State University. Broadway: The Lion King . International Tours: Hair . Regional: Once on This Island , Chess. Film and TV: “For the People.”

Dancer/Choreographer: Tituss Burgess, Billboard, Netflix. NYC/Regional Theater: A Chorus Line (Richie), Legally Blonde (Warner), Hairspray (Seaweed), Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Take Me to the World (Carnegie Hall), Silueta: A New Musical (Ian). TV: “POSE.” Founder of TFC Training @ thefitcreative __ @ tfctraining

Debut. Cleveland, Ohio native. Credits: Ain’t Too Proud, Book of Mormon, Lin Manuel’s 21 Chump Street, Youth in Passing Strange and Jackie in Andrew Lippa’s The Wild Party. Training: Baldwin Wallace Conservatory. @ ton1942 #MAKTUB #REDBALLON

Broadway: Tarzan, Jumpers. National Tour: The Lion King. Off-Broadway: Fuerza Bruta, De La Guarda. TV: “Law & Order,” “Sex and the City,” “Guiding Light,” “Hawaii Five-O.” Regional: The Wilma, Goodspeed Opera House, Pittsburgh CLO, Great Lakes Theatre Festival. BFA, Carnegie Mellon. Michael starred as Niko Bellic in the video game Grand Theft Auto IV. Love to my wife Angela and our little cubs Max and Eva.

A choreographer, dance educator and costume designer, Alia is pleased to return to the Broadway Company of The Lion King . Favorite credits include Ailey II (dancer and rehearsal director), Camille A. Brown & Dancers, CeDeCe (Alcobaça, Portugal), and Metropolitan Opera. Instagram: @luvlicap

Originally from Japan. Graduated from Joffrey Ballet school. Youngsil has danced with Complexions for five seasons. Off-broadway: Company XIV. 1st National tour of Anastasia the musical. Much love to my family, friends and Andrew.

Amanda Kunene  is an South African singer, actress and performer. Born in Durban, South Africa. BA Music and Drama Studies graduate and BA Honors in Music Performance graduate from the University of KwaZulu-Natal Howard College campus.

Born and raised in Durban, South Africa. Has a profound passion for music. Acclaimed for successfully producing a debut album sung in French, Zulu and Creole. Ideal: No level of satisfaction.

Rahway, NJ. Graduate: Hollins University, MFA. Ailey/Fordham, BFA. Television: “WuTang: An American Saga” (Hulu). Credits: Dance Theatre of Harlem, Collage Dance Collective, Ailey II. Thanks God, Family and friends. In memory of mom, June Skeete-Lee. IG: Daphne732.  www.daphnemlee.com

Cincinnati, OH native. Dance: Charlotte Ballet, Chautauqua Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, DCDC. Broadway: The Lion King , original cast of The Lion King Las Vegas. Regional: Oklahoma! (Dream Jud). TV: The Emmy Awards, “Dancing with the Stars.” Instagram/Twitter @Jaysinmc

N ative of Miami. Training: New World School of the Arts, The Ailey School. Credits: Dallas Black Dance Theatre, “Festival of The Lion King”, The Lion King  Gazelle & Rafiki Tour. Thank you to my husband & family.  

Ray Mercer, an Omaha, NE, native, comes directly from The Lion King Cheetah tour. Danced with Deeply Rooted/Chicago and George Faison and has toured with Aretha Franklin. Thanks to family and friends for their love and support.

From Syracuse, NY, Excited to make her Broadway debut! Fav credits: Ailey II , FX Pose, 2017 Vogue Collections, Dance Spirit Magazine. Jamaris is thankful for the love and support of her family and friends! @Jamarismitchell

Michael is honored to be making his Broadway debut in The Lion King ! A native of Atlanta, GA., Michael received his BFA from The Boston Conservatory ’16. Michael thanks God, his beautiful parents & community for their support leading up to this moment.

S’bu Ngema, from South Africa, Zululand, is very excited to join The Lion King on Broadway. Credits: Sarafina with M’Bongeni Ngema, I Pintombi with Bertha Egnos. His performances are dedicated to his mother Sibongile. Love always.

A South African native. Theater: The Lion King (Australia, China, Gazelle national tour), Dance Through Me, Mama, Woza My Fohloza, Jika Majika The Musical. TV: “Code Black,” “X Factor” (Australia), Nelson Mandela’s 80th Birthday Celebration.

Nhlanhla is an actor, voice over artist, song writer and singer with 10 years backing vocalist experience. He’s multilingual and performed on numerous international stages. 2013-2014 he was in The Lion King Brazil cast.

Nteliseng is honored to be making her Broadway debut and joins directly from the Hamburg company of The Lion King . Other credits include Miriam Makeba in The Journey (Zurich), Brenda Fassie in Memeb a (Johannesburg) and I’m African (Welkom).

Broadway Debut! Credits: West Side Story (Muny), Rondine (Met Opera), BalletCollective, Deeply Rooted, ADM21. TV/Film: “Ally Bank.” Graduate: NYU Tisch. Thank you, Mom, Crystal, Abuela, That’s Dancing, Caroline, and CESD! @tatinunez143 / www.tatiananunez.com

Marlaina is thrilled to return to The Lion King after an extended break to finish her education and raise her daughters. Other credits include: Smokey Joe’s Café, The Civil War, Ain’t Misbehavin’. Love and thanks to my biggest fans, Stephen, Sinclair and Simone.

Thrilled to make her Broadway Debut! Favorite credits: A Chorus Line (CPIP), West Side Story (Lyric Opera, Teatro Lirico di Cagliari), Cabaret (Goodspeed), After Midnight (NCL). Training: The University of the Arts/BFA. Thank you to God, family, friends and my agents at CESD. @ tonitonitoni93

Credits: The Lion King (Gazelle and Cheetah companies), AIDA (Aida), RENT (Mimi & Joanne Cover), Ain’t Misbehavin (Charlaine), The Wiz (Dorothy), Once on this Island (Andrea), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (National Tour). @ Jacquelineorene

Broadway debut! Nat’l tour: The Lion King, Something Rotten! (Ensemble, u/s Bea) Regional Favorites: Ragtime (Actor’s Playhouse), Pirates of Penzance (freeFall Theatre). TV: “The Vampire Diaries”, “Red Band Society”. FSU grad. Endless gratitude to my family. Instagram: @kseckel

Overjoyed to be making his Broadway debut with  The Lion King . Companies: The Lion King Las Vegas and North American tour (Gazelle), Washington Reflection Dance Company, National Ballet of San Domingo. I would like to thank my parents, family, and friends for their constant and overflowing prayers and support! Peace and Love!

Theatre: The Lion King Las Vegas, National Tour & Broadway. Dance: Dallas Black Dance Theater, Lula Washington Dance Theatre.  Movies: FoxFilms “Avatar”.  Graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University BFA.  Former Miss Black LA and Miss Suffolk. Thank you to my Heavenly Father and family.

JAMES VESSELL (Ensemble). Broadway debut! Credits: Chicago 25th Anniversary Tour, Memphis the Musical and Dreamgirls (POTS). Dancer with Ballet Memphis and Tallahassee Ballet. Wayne State University; BFA dance major. Endless thanks to my family, my partner, and the HK Agency! Instagram: @thejamesvessell

Marcus Williams(Ensemble). Dallas, TX native making his Broadway debut! He was in the Emmy-Winning cast of The Let Go at the Park Avenue Armory and a previous company member with Phantom of the Opera (World Tour), Ailey II, Philadanco and Fire Shut Up in My Bones (MET Opera and Chicago Lyric Theatre). Williams thanks God, family and friends for helping him get here. IG: Marcus.N.Williams

Broadway Debut! Regional: Jelly’s Last Jam (Hunnie). TV/Film: “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”. Sidney is a proud graduate of Elon University ’21. Many thanks to God, her family, CGF and all who have poured into her life. Find her at sidneynicolewilson.com @sidneynw (Proverbs 3:5-6)

B’way: Rent . Off-B’way: Oedipus at Palm Springs ; The Immigrant ; Hank Williams: Lost Highway ; Love, Janis ; Play Yourself ; Homebody/Kabul . Tour: It Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues . International tour: Biennale-Bonn, Germany; Edinburgh Festival, Edinburgh, Scotland; deSingel Theatre, Antwerp. For Jack and Anna always.

B’way: The Color Purple, Curtains. Off-B’way: Five Course Love, The Immigrant , Eyewitness Blues, Golf the Musical, Hank Williams: Lost Highway, Finder’s Fee, Right You Are. Tour: The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter, Anything Goes. Regional: Studio Arena and Little Theatre on the Square.

Broadway: Summer: The Donna Summer Musical. National tours: Frozen (first national), A Bronx Tale the Musical (first national). Off-Broadway: Jersey Boys, Little Rock . Regional: I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change; Curvy Widow; Bad Jews .

Trained at the Victorian College of the Arts at the University of Melbourne and toured extensively in Australia and North America before settling in NYC. Broadway: Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, King Kong, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. O ther credits include An Iliad with Denis O’Hare, Ernest Shackleton Loves Me, and The Karate Kid.

National Tours: The Lion King (since 2004), Bring in ’da Noise…., Cinderella; Jekyll & Hyde; Annie 20th Anniversary Tour. Broadway: DamnYankees!, Arcadia, The Red Shoes, A Christmas Carol, Annie (ACM), Jekyll & Hyde (ACM), Off-Broadway: Cowgirls . Proud member of AEA & IATSE. Love to Molly & Rebecca.

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French pres. emmanuel macron leads tributes to alain delon – “more than a star, a monument”, shah rukh khan & sons to voice hindi version of ‘mufasa: the lion king’.

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Shah Rukh Khan will voice Mufasa in the Hindi version of Barry Jenkins ’ Mufasa: The Lion King , which releases in India on December 20.

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Blending live-action with photoreal computer-generated imagery, Mufasa: The Lion King stars Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., John Kani, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, Donald Glover and Thandiwe Newton.

Mufasa: The Lion King enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of the unlikely rise of the beloved king of the Pride Lands, introducing an orphaned cub called Mufasa, a sympathetic lion named Taka — the heir to a to a royal bloodline — and their journey alongside an extraordinary group of misfits.

Mufasa: The Lion King will be released in theaters in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

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THE LION KING Will Welcome New Young Simba and Young Nala Next Week

Current cast members Ezekiel Kekuna and Nia Thompson will play their final performance Sunday, August 18.

The Lion King will welcome Austin Elle Fisher as “ Young Nala ” and Jacob Pham as “Young Simba” beginning Tuesday, August 20, alternating in the roles with current cast members Annika Reese Franklin and Albert Rhodes , Jr. Current cast members Ezekiel Kekuna and Nia Thompson will play their final performance Sunday, August 18. 

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Meet the new cast members.

AUSTIN ELLE FISHER ( Young Nala at certain performances) made her Broadway debut at age 9 as Natalie Hillard in Mrs. Doubtfire and played Marta von Trapp in the Sound of Music at Paper Mill Playhouse. TV/film credits include "Atlanta" as Lottie, "Manifest," "Kaleidoscope,” “Blue Bloods” and more. @austin.elle.fisher

JACOB PHAM (Young Simba at certain performances) is thrilled to be making his Broadway debut. Credits: A Christmas Story at CTGLA, “Sesame Street,” voiceovers for Disney & Nickelodeon. IG:  @jacobphamofficial 

In The Lion King on Broadway: “Scar” is played by Stephen Carlile ,  L. Steven Taylor is “Mufasa,” Tshidi Manye is the baboon shaman “Rafiki,” Cameron Pow portrays the hornbilled bird “Zazu,” Ben Jeffrey is the warthog “Pumbaa” and Fred Berman is the meerkat “Timon.”  Mufasa’s son, “Simba,” the lion prince born to be king, is played by Vincent Jamal Hooper and Pearl Khwezi is the lioness “Nala.”  James Brown -Orleans, Bonita J. Hamilton and Robb Sapp portray the hyenas “Bonzai,” “Shenzi” and “Ed.”

 ABOUT THE LION KING

Celebrating 26 landmark years on Broadway, The Lion King continues ascendant as one of the most popular stage musicals in the world.  Produced by Disney Theatrical Group, under the direction of Andrew Flatt , Anne Quart and Thomas Schumacher , The Lion King has made theatrical history with three productions worldwide running 20 or more years and two others running 25 or more years. 

Performed over its lifetime in nine different languages (English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Dutch, Spanish, Mandarin and Portuguese), there are currently seven productions of The Lion King around the world: Broadway, London, Paris, Hamburg, Madrid, Tokyo, and on tour across North America. The Lion King has played over 100 cities in 24 countries on every continent except Antarctica; its worldwide gross exceeds that of any film, Broadway show or other entertainment title in box office history.     

The Lion King won six 1998 Tony Awards®:  Best Musical, Best Scenic Design ( Richard Hudson ), Best Costume Design ( Julie Taymor ), Best Lighting Design ( Donald Holder ), Best Choreography ( Garth Fagan ) and Best Direction of a Musical.  The Lion King has also earned more than 70 major arts awards including the 1998 NY Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical, the 1999 Grammy® for Best Musical Show Album, the 1999 Evening Standard Award for Theatrical Event of the Year and the 1999 Laurence Olivier Awards for Best Choreography and Best Costume Design. 

Director, costume designer and mask co-designer Julie Taymor , the first woman to win a Tony Award for Best Director of a Musical, remains actively involved in the show, launching new productions and maintaining the flagship Broadway production. 

The Broadway score features Elton John and Tim Rice ’s songs from The Lion King animated film along with three new songs by John and Rice; additional musical material by South African Lebo M, Mark Mancina , Jay Rifkin , Julie Taymor and Hans Zimmer ; and music from "Rhythm of the Pride Lands," an album inspired by the original music in the film, written by Lebo M, Mark Mancina and Hans Zimmer .  The resulting sound of The Lion King is a fusion of Western popular music and the distinctive sounds and rhythms of Africa, ranging from the Academy Award®-winning song “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” to Lebo M’s rich choral numbers. 

Elton John , Lebo M and Hans Zimmer all collaborated on the 2019 version of the film, executive produced by Julie Taymor and Thomas Schumacher , which has gone onto extraordinary worldwide success.

The book has been adapted by Roger Allers , who co-directed the animated The Lion King feature, and Irene Mecchi , who co-wrote the film’s screenplay.  Other members of the creative team include:  Michael Curry , who designed the masks and puppets with Taymor, Steve Canyon Kennedy (sound design), Michael Ward (hair and makeup design), Anthony Lyn (associate director), Marey Griffith (associate choreographer), Clement Ishmael (music supervisor), Lisa Dawn Cave (production supervisor), Thomas Schlenk (general manager) and ARC / Mark Brandon , CSA (casting).  Anne Quart serves as executive producer.

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Austin Elle Fisher and Jacob Pham will join ‘The Lion King’ on Broadway

The long-running musical continues at the Minskoff Theatre.

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“The Lion King” has revealed two incoming principal actors. Austin Elle Fisher and Jacob Pham will step into the roles of Young Nala and Young Simba, respectively, beginning on Aug. 20 at the Minskoff Theatre. Fisher will succeed Nia Thompson and Pham will take over for Ezekiel Kekuna, both of whom will exit the reproduction on Aug. 18. Fisher and Pham will alternate in their roles with current cast members Annika Reese Franklin and Albert Rhodes Jr., respectively.

Fisher first appeared on Broadway in 2022, playing Natalie Hillard in “Mrs. Doubtfire.” Later the same year she played Marta von Trapp in Paper Mill Playhouse’s production of “The Sound of Music.”

“The Lion King” will mark the Broadway debut of Pham, who was a swing in Center Theatre Group’s 2023 production of “A Christmas Story.” Pham also appeared on “Sesame Street.”

The current principal company of “The Lion King” includes Fred Berman as Timon, James Brown-Orleans as Bonzai, Stephen Carlile as Scar, Bonita J. Hamilton as Shenzi, Vincent Jamal Hooper as Simba, Ben Jeffrey as Pumbaa, Pearl Khwezi as Nala, Tshidi Manye as Rafiki, Cameron Pow as Zazu, Robb Sapp as Ed and L. Steven Taylor as Mufasa. Casting is by ARC Casting/Marc Brandon.

Based on the 1994 film of the same name, “The Lion King” opened on Broadway on Nov. 13, 1997. The 1998 Best Musical Tony Award winner is the third-longest-running show in Broadway history.

“The Lion King” is produced by Disney Theatrical Group, under the direction of Andrew Flatt, Anne Quart and Thomas Schumacher.

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Mufasa: The Lion King Trailer Showcases a Wild Origin Story (and Blue Ivy Carter's Movie Debut!)

'Mufasa: The Lion King' is in theaters Dec. 20

Mufasa: The Lion King is roaring into theaters soon.

At the D23 fan event held in ​​Anaheim, Calif. on Aug. 9, Walt Disney Studios unveiled a new full trailer for the movie, a prequel to 2019's blockbuster live-action reimagining of The Lion King .

A previous teaser for Mufasa debuted in April , featuring narration from Rafiki and a first look at young Mufasa set to the “Circle of Life” song. 

Mufasa will take viewers through the character's origin story as he goes from an orphaned cub to the legendary king of the Pride Lands. It will also tell the story of his relationship with his brother Taka, otherwise known to fans as Scar. 

Kiara, the daughter of Simba and Nala, is in parts of the film, as are Timon and Pumbaa. 

"What you'll learn from the story is that Mufasa is who he is ... because of the family and the friends that he has,” director Barry Jenkins said at Disney's D23 Expo back in 2022. “And so I saw myself in that. I thought: 'This is a really beautiful story to tell.' "

The return of the much-loved animated film will also include the actors who voiced the characters in the 2019 installment. Donald Glover , Seth Rogen , Billy Eichner , John Kani and Beyoncé will all reprise their roles as Simba, Pumbaa, Timon, Rafiki and Nala, respectively. 

There will be a few fresh faces as well. The new cast members include Aaron Pierre as young Mufasa, Kelvin Harrison Jr . as young Scar, Tiffany Boone as Sarabi, Mads Mikkelsen as Kiros, Thandiwe Newton as Eshe, Lennie James as Obasi, and Blue Ivy Carter making her feature film debut as Kiara.

Blue Ivy previously became the youngest individual Grammy winner in 2021 at 9 years old after she was credited on her mother Beyoncé’s 2019 song and music video for “Brown Skin Girl.” The song was included in the soundtrack album The Lion King: The Gift, which featured new songs inspired by the film.   

“I feel like Blue grew quite a bit over the course of that tour,” Jenkins told PEOPLE in April 2024. “The movie is kind of like this snapshot, this time capsule of a moment in their lives that I think is really beautiful. And it absolutely worked for the film.”

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This time around, fans can expect new original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda , known for his musical contributions to other Disney animated films like Moana and Encanto . 

“ The Lion King has an incredible musical legacy with music from some of the greatest songwriters around, and I'm humbled and proud to be a part of it,” Miranda said in a statement. “It's been a joy working alongside Barry Jenkins to bring Mufasa's story to life, and we can't wait for audiences to experience this film in theaters."

Mufasa: The Lion King is in theaters Dec. 20. 

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