The Lion King: 20 years of musical theater and still king of the stage
From the first notes of the chant, audiences sit in rapt attention. For 20 years, The Lion King has awed audiences and still does every night.
The classic Disney movie The Lion King has long been a family favorite. The coming of age tale is more than just Simba’s journey and the story of Pride Rock. It conveys the strength, balance and fragility of nature. While the Serengeti can flourish in good times, it can become a vast wasteland when not nurtured. The musical adaptation of The Lion King captures the awe-inspiring moments of the movie without missing a beat.
Buyi Zama as “Rafiki” In The Lion King North American Tour, Disney, Photo by Joan Marcus, photo provided by Dr. Phillips Center
As the national touring cast of The Lion King takes to the Walt Disney Theater stage at Dr. Phillips Center, the emotion of the musical is felt by the audience. Even Orlando residents who are continually reminded of Disney’s creativity and imagination sit in rapt attention of a story line that they know so well. Kids and adults can laugh along with the songs and lines that they have hear hundreds of times.
Of course, the opening number “Circle of Life” is the musical’s visually stunning production. The “Nants’ Ingonyama” chant causes goosebumps. Watching kids’ (and some adults’) faces light up as the animals parade up the aisle sets the tone for the whole night. After such a huge opening number, The Lion King builds on that connection.
Dashaum Young as “Simba” In The Lion King North American Tour, Disney, Photo by Joan Marcus, photo provided by Dr. Phillips Center
The songs that aren’t as well-known are the emotional heart of this musical. For example, “He Lives in You” played in both acts is a call to find strength from within. First sung by Mufasa (Gerald Ramsey), the father balances his strength and vulnerability. Like any parent, he wants the best for his son. Still, he worries what the future will hold.
When the song returns in the second act, the notes are a reminder for Simba (Gerald Caesar) to reclaim his birthright. He finds his inner strength and determination. With a little pushing from old Rafiki (Buyi Zama), Simba sheds his old ways and transforms into an adult.
Nia Holloway as “Nala” In The Lion King North American Tour, Disney, Photo by Joan Marcus, photo provided by Dr. Phillips Center
In act two, “Shadowlands,” sung by Nala (Nia Holloway), conveys the fragility of the African land. While the women are the strength of the pride, she sees the land being decimated. Each note has a sense of determination yet fear. The audience yearns for her to find more for her pride.
While these songs are filled with emotion, many light moments keep the audience laughing. From Zazu’s corny jokes to the absurdity of hyenas, the musical ensures that everyone is fully entertained. Throughout the show, there never seems to be a lull.
Most telling about this theatrical production is its incorporation of African music. The African beats and chants offer a huge impact on the storyline. With the two percussionists in full view of the audience, it can be hard not to stare at them during the performance. The rhythmic beats can have anyone moving in their seat.
Buyi Zama as “Rafiki” In The Lion King North American Tour, Disney, Photo by Joan Marcus, photo provided by Dr. Phillips Center
Having been to South Africa, this musical does a masterful job of conveying the hospitality of the African people. Though it is a musical about a lion pride and the animals of the Serengeti, songs like “One by One” embrace African culture as a whole. Warm, welcoming and humble, the nuances of the performance made me rediscover those memories from a life changing trip.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of The Lion King on Broadway. The musical’s continual popularity is a testament to its wide reaching appeal. Musical theater fans are in awe of the production and the emotional arc of the music. Non-traditional theater goers embrace a well-known storyline which gets them into those theater seats.
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The Lion King is a musical that can be seen over and over, yet it never gets old. Just like the “Circle of Life,” The Lion King will continue on, playing to packed theaters for years to come.