The Lion King London: An Unforgettable Musical

In 1994, Disney released the animated movie “The Lion King.” The movie was well received and brought in countless awards. Following in the successful footsteps of the animated film, Disney Theatricals introduced a musical version of the hit story a short time later. The Lion King London has been playing since 1999 at the Lyceum Theatre.

This amazing feature portrays the life of Simba, a young lion lost after being stricken by the tragedy of losing his father. As he wonders through life, he tries to forget his past. Along the way, he meets new friends and is eventually reminded of his true life’s calling, to be the King of Pride Rock. Audiences of every age can sympathize to the trials and tribulations that he must overcome.

During the course of the six-time Tony award winning musical, children and adults alike will be awed by the beautifully crafted costumes, flawlessly choreographed dancing, and electric lighting and effects. On top of it all, brilliant music from legends Sir Elton John, Tom Rice, and Hans Zimmer rattle the story to life.

Featuring about forty actors, singers, and dancers backed by over 110 support staff, the London version of the music has been immensely popular. Since it began running in London, the show has brought in nearly 300 pounds in the form of over eight million tickets sold. Worldwide, it has been seen by over 50 million people in over 28,000 performances. Repeat spectators will attest that the show only gets better each year.

To top off the experience, authentic African masks are used by the cast to portray their characters. But these masks are more than just part of costume, they are function art masterpieces. Each one not only represents a part of the tale, but they are also symbolic of a culture. Many of the masks featured are worn traditionally, on the head rather than over the face.

The Lion King musical is only available at the Lyceum Theatre on Wellington Street. Its typical show times are Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 19:30 and running just under three hours. Matinees can also be seen on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 14:00 and Sundays at 15:00.

From its enthralling start featuring what seems to be hundreds of wild African beasts dancing to Elton John’s circle of life to Simba’s Uncle Scar’s bitter demise, you will not only be entertained, you will be bedazzled. The Lion King London is surely one musical that cannot be missed.