Laura and Samara spend their days as non-profit unicorns and fill every spare minute exploring the world of musical theatre as BFFs (that’s Broadway Friends Forever). Follow @bffs613 on X, Instagram and Facebook.
For many, the animated movie The Lion King was a formative part of their childhood. We are no exception and have been looking forward to the return of Disney’s The Lion King to the National Arts Centre. After chatting with Erick D. Patrick, who plays Simba, the opening night could not come soon enough. Especially because the last time this show was in the capital was in 2011. Expectations were high for Broadway Across Canada’s touring production, and that’s on top of its more than 70 global theatrical awards, including a Tony for Best Musical. Spoiler alert—the wait was worth it!
Whether or not you have a connection to the original animated film, the stage production will leave an impact on you. Every piece of this production works together to bring audiences directly into the story and there are some fantastic immersive elements. The stage production has become well known for its costumes, puppetry and set design and continues to bring these all to life in a way that is different from any other show. The simplicity manages to still convey detail and grandeur, bringing audiences into the Pride Lands and allowing the story to envelop you fully. When we attended a talkback with Director Julie Taymor back in 2019, the costuming and staging were still key topics of discussion decades after the show’s conception. It is clear to see the impact her approach continues to have over time.
Photo By Matthew Murphy
The actors have no easy feat in this show. It’s a large cast and every movement they make contributes to the storytelling. They have to adapt to the costumes, and how they interact with other costumes and actors, all while moving their bodies to emulate different animals. But they all do it with seemingly such grace and ease that we sometimes forget there are actors inside or controlling some of the puppets.
The score features songs by Elton John and Tim Rice from the original animated film, as well as three new songs for the stage production, with additional musical material by South African Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Julie Taymor and Hans Zimmer. Musicians play over 80 different instruments from all over the world which enhances the story and contributes to the blend of Western and African sounds. With one of the most iconic Disney villain songs in Be Prepared and the Oscar-winning love song Can You Feel the Love Tonight, you will be drawn into each song from beginning to end.
Photo by Joan Marcus
A story of love, loss and finding your place in the world, Disney’s The Lion King has placed itself as a theatre staple that all audiences should experience—young and older. Take advantage of this extended run and grab those remaining tickets before it’s too late, you won’t want to have to wait another decade before it returns!
Broadway Across Canada’s presentation of Disney’s The Lion King takes place from Oct. 24 to Nov. 10 with evening and matinee performances and it runs 2 hours and 30 minutes with one intermission. The Lion King performances are recommended for ages 6 and up.
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