The Lion King musical on Broadway is one the most popular shows today, and with good reason. If you want to be transported to the magical world of the African animal kingdom then this is the place to be. Watch as the life-size animal figures come to life in the opening song “Circle of Life” and marvel at the very best of Broadway theater.
This Tony Award winning musical is largely based on the eponymous Disney movie that is known and loved by many. It tells the Hamlet-like tale of the lion cub Simba, prince of the African lions and heir to the throne. Simba “Just Can’t Wait to be King” and hopes he’ll be a brave king like his father. But after his father is murdered by his evil uncle Scar, Simba is forced into exile believing that he is to blame for his death. In exile he meets Timon the meerkat and Pumbaa the warthog and they teach him their philosophy of life, “Hakuna Matata” (“No Worries”) as he grows up. In the forest he realizes that he must reclaim the throne to save the lions and take his rightful place as “King of Pride Rock”. In order to do so, he must defeat Scar.
The thing that sets this musical apart and the reason why I still wish till this day ( Call me a Big Kid at Heart) is the costume design and scenery, which is truly impressive. The animals of the African Savannah are really brought to life: lions, antelope, hyenas, wildebeests, giraffes and many more right in front of your eyes. Coupled with Oscar-winning songs like “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” the musical fulfills its promise of sheer entertainment. Julie Taymor played a crucial role in the development of the musical working on additional music and lyrics, costumes, mask and puppet design as well as being the director. Her work helped define the Broadway blockbuster.
