DISNEY'S THE LION KING Generates $16M Economic Impact in Grand Rapids

Disney's The Lion King and Broadway Grand Rapids are celebrating the conclusion of a three-week engagement that ended Sunday, April 26. The production played 24 performances at DeVos Performance Hall, grossing more than $4 million at the box office and entertaining more than 48,000 theatergoers from across Michigan.

It is estimated that the Grand Rapids engagement of The Lion King generated more than $16,268,687* in economic impact for the city, driven by spending on hotels, restaurants, transportation, parking, and other local businesses by both theatergoers and production staff. This estimate is based on a Broadway League report, which found that Broadway tours in similarly sized markets generate an economic impact averaging 4.00 times gross ticket sales.

“Patrons came by the busload, downtown was alive with visitors, local businesses were busy, and audiences of all ages experienced Broadway at its very best here in Grand Rapids,” said Meghan Distel, President and CEO of Broadway Grand Rapids. “We're proud to help make moments like this happen for West Michigan. It drives meaningful economic activity and underscores the powerful role the arts play in cultural connection and community vitality.”

The 2025-2026 Fifth Third Bank Broadway Grand Rapids series continues with The Outsiders June 9-14, 2026 and The Great Gatsby July 21-26, 2026. Season tickets for the 2026/2027 season are also on sale now. For tickets and more information, visit www.BroadwayGrandRapids.com.

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