You may have seen "The Lion King," Disney's classic film about a young cub and his rise to the throne, but "The Lion King" on Broadway takes the tale to an entirely new level. The retelling of the story is a dynamic and awe-inspiring production only possible onstage.
"The Lion King" Stays True to the Classic Disney Tale Since director Julie Taymor debuted the production in 1997, more than 50 million people have seen the Broadway version of the Disney classic. Its popularity with theatergoers has also translated into critical adoration. The adaptation has been nominated for many Tony Awards and even took home a trophy for Best Musical in 1998.
The show debuted at the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on July 8, 1997 and has since become the seventh longest-running show in Broadway history, surpassing the stage version of another beloved Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast.
A young lion prince named Simba is the main character of this jaw-dropping, lively spectacle. The heir to the throne of the animal kingdom, Simba flees after experiencing the tragedy of his father's death. He starts fresh with his colorful jungle friends, but quickly learns that his former kingdom has been ravaged by his evil uncle, Scar. Finally, he returns to fulfill his destiny as king.
The Serengeti Comes to Life Before Your Eyes Thanks to make-up, costuming and elaborate set design, you won't forget the spectacle that takes place on stage as dancers and actors transform into giraffes, birds, gazelles and other African animals. The soundtrack to the production is filled with African drums and rhythms, and is highlighted by Elton John and Tim Rice's Oscar-Winning song from the film, "Can You Feel the Love Tonight."
Is This Production Appropriate for Children? Because the musical is backed by Disney, you can be confident that the play is appropriate for the whole family. But parents should also know the tastes of their own children. Just like the movie, "The Lion King" features some slightly scary scenes, like the death of Simba's father and the sequence in the elephant graveyard.
What Else Should I See? If you love the music of Elton John, you may also want to check out "Billy Elliot" on Broadway, as the performer's tunes are also featured in that production.