Photo Flash: LION KING Cast Visits Rafiki at Madame Tussauds

On Thursday, August 5, cast members from Disney's THE LION KING on Broadway celebrated the return of a wax replica of the beloved baboon shaman "Rafiki" to Madame Tussauds.  The figure, which was originally unveiled at Tussauds in 2006, is dressed in a replica of the original Rafiki costume designed by Julie Taymor, who won the Tony Award® for Best Costume Design and Best Direction of a Musical for THE LION KING.  The figure was created by Madame Tussauds Studio artists with the help of costume and makeup artists from the London production of THE LION KING.
 
On hand for the unveiling ceremony at the famed Times Square landmark were Dashaun Young (Simba) and ensemble members Lindiwe Dlamini, Bongi Duma, Jean Michelle Grier, Sheryl McCallum, Nteliseng Nkhela, Selloane A. Nkhela, L. Steven Taylor, Rema Webb and Kenny Redell Williams.
 
THE LION KING continues to reign as one of the most popular shows on Broadway and around the world.  Now in its 13th year, THE LION KING has won over 70 major awards and is the eighth longest-running musical in Broadway history.  The global phenomenon has been seen by more than 50 million guests worldwide.  In addition to Broadway, THE LION can be seen on stage in London, Hamburg, Tokyo, Las Vegas and on tour across North America.  The Broadway production is currently playing at the Minskoff Theatre (200 West 45th Street).
 
Prominently located in the heart of Times Square, Madame Tussauds New York is open 365 days a year. 
 
For more information, visit www.lionking.com and www.nycwax.com.

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