Review: THE LION KING Returns To The Belk Theater

THE LION KING RETURNS...
Written By: Vickie L. Evans

"Hakuna Matata. It means no worries for the rest of your days!" I left the Belk Theater with those song lyrics delightfully ringing in my head. Yes, and the reason for the joy in my heart was The Lion King, based on the Disney film directed by Roger Allers and Irene Mechhi and music by Elton John and Tim Rice. No matter how many times I've had the opportunity to experience this wonderful musical, (I've seen it at Disney and on Broadway), I always leave with a "happy face". What a marvelous and delightful production with visuals that explode on stage. From the opening number,The Circle of Life, one of my favorites, (with some characters spotlighted in the box seats) to the ending finale, this Broadway masterpiece did not disappoint. The costumes were a vivid array of trendy colors like a melting pot of Skittles™ exploding on stage. The set and scenic background, simple yet detailed, gave us a reflective depiction of Africa and its wildlife. The animal impersonations were so delightful, I could imagine being right there in the midst of a safari, walking through the grass, with the sun vehemently beaming on my face. The thunderous beats of the drums, the melodious harmony of the chorus and lead characters permeated the atmosphere and created a magical moment as only Disney can.

The thing I love the most about The Lion King is that it is relatable on every age level. There is something for everyone...young and old as evident by the attendance...a mix crowd of energy-filled children and jubilant adults who appeared to be taking it all in as if they were re-living some childhood fantasy. The message in The Lion King is universal and and easily envisioned. It is such an important "coming-to-add" production that is so thought-provoking. It renders so many "take-aways" to include the bond between father, King Mufasa (Gerald Ramsey), and son, Simba. Note: Charlotte patrons, had an added bonus...Ramon Reed, who portrayed the young Simba, is a Charlottean. What a joy to view one of our very own on stage as an intricate part of a Broadway national tour.

Of course, a good storyline is vigorously stimulated by a villain and, in this case, Uncle Scar (Mark Campbell) does the honors. The rivalry between the brothers, Mufasa and Scar highlighted the deadly effects of jealousy and the detriment it can cause not only to a family unit but to an entire kingdom. Not only is Scar jealous of his brother, he is envious of his nephew, Simba, whose birth prevents Scar from being next in line to the Pride Rock throne. His bitterness develops into a heartless scheme to dethrone this innocent lion cub, with the support of some laughing hyenas, which eventually leads to his own destruction.

Another key element to a good storyline is a love story. The friendship and love interest between Simba (Jared Dixon) and Nala (Nia Holloway) delivers the classic Disney "happily ever after" fairytale moment. And it behooves me not to mention the animated and passionate character, Rifiki, (Mukelisiwe Gobi), Mufasa's trusted friend and advisor, who provided humor, narration, and larger than life animation throughout the production.

In conclusion, The Lion King, always delivers an entertaining, family-oriented performance that rightfully deserves the multiple standing ovation that it received. It is truly worth the investment of time and treasures. As I look around the theater, I see the bond between parents and children as they proudly share one moment in time, facilitated by the backdrop of the classic masterpiece, The Lion King. Yes, Hakuna Matata...no worries for me.

**The Lion King runs at the Belk Theater, at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, 130 N. Tryon, Charlotte, NC, from Wednesday, August 22 - Sunday, September 9. Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.tix.carolinatix.org