Review: THE LION KING at the Aronoff Center
by Ana-Brit Asplen - Jun 13, 2026
This grand and heartwarming spectacle is not only a fantastic stage musical appealing to all ages, but it also provides reminders about the dangers of tyranny and dictatorship, as well as the need for creativity and diversity in theatre.
Review: THE LION KING at Providence Performing Arts Center
by Andria Tieman - May 22, 2026
The Lion King swept the Tony awards when it was on Broadway, and even for this semi-skeptical theatre reviewer, it’s easy to see why. It seems impossible to translate a cartoon about the lives of animals into a stage production performed by people, or at least, it seems like it will be corny. This production, however, is completely unlike any other theatrical experience. It hews faithfully enough to the story to satisfy the super fans, but adds so many new elements that it’s astonishing and delightful to watch.
DISNEY'S THE LION KING Begins at Playhouse Square This June
by A.A. Cristi - May 11, 2026
Casting has been announced for Cleveland's limited return engagement of DISNEY'S THE LION KING at Playhouse Square, featuring Cleveland native Robb Sapp, who has played Ed in the Broadway production since 2021.
Review: THE LION KING at Broadway Grand Rapids
by Brian Hilbrand - Apr 21, 2026
The Lion King has been touring North America for more than 23 years, and during that time has welcomed over 25 million theatergoers, making it North America’s longest-running and most-attended Broadway tour. Having already played more than 10,000 performances in over 90 cities across North America, The Lion King now proudly returns to the DeVos Performance Hall.
Michigan talent takes center stage with Disney’s The Lion King, as several accomplished musicians bring their artistry to the acclaimed production. Music Director Karl Shymanovtiz, born in Southfield and raised in Warren, uses his Michigan upbringing to lead the orchestra. Guitarist Robert Tye, born and raised in Detroit and now a resident of Birmingham, adds dynamic rhythm and texture to the show’s powerful score. Flutist Darlene Drew (Interview), born in Detroit and raised in Dearborn Heights, and a Comstock Park resident, brings elegance to the woodwind section. Keyboardist Eric Banitt, from Marquette, contributes depth and energy to the production’s vibrant musical landscape.
Zama Magudulela Will Join THE LION KING Tour as Rafiki
by Stephi Wild - Jan 7, 2026
The North American tour of Disney’s The Lion King will welcome Zama Magudulela as Rafiki. Magudulela will begin performances on Tuesday, January 13 in Sacramento at the Safe Credit Union Performing Arts Center.
Review: DISNEY'S THE LION KING at The Princess Of Wales Theatre
by Samantha Wu - Nov 12, 2024
One of the world's most beloved musicals returns to Toronto for a long term stay into the Spring of 2025. Disney's The Lion King, the stage spectacle directed by Julie Taymor is based on the 1994 animated classic with music and lyrics written by Elton John and Tim Rice. This production has captivated audiences young and old across the globe for over 20 years and now is the best opportunity to introduce a new generation to the King.
Video: Go Inside First Day Of Rehearsals for Disney's THE LION KING in Toronto
by Joshua Wright - Sep 11, 2024
Toronto's production of Disney's The Lion King is so huge that it has taken over an entire school during rehearsals. On the first day of rehearsals, watch how the school has been transformed to become a rehearsal hall, and check in on the cast being welcomed by producer David Mirvish, executive producer Anne Quart, and director Anthony Lyn.
Review Roundup: THE LION KING Tour Roars Back to the Stage; What Are The Critics Saying?
by Stephi Wild - Oct 26, 2021
The cast includes Spencer Plachy as 'Scar,' Gerald Ramsey as 'Mufasa,' Gugwana Dlamini as 'Rafiki,' Nick Cordileone as 'Timon,' Jürgen Hooper as 'Zazu,' Ben Lipitz as 'Pumbaa,' Darian Sanders as 'Simba,' Kayla Cyphers as 'Nala,' Keith Bennett as 'Banzai,' Martina Sykes as 'Shenzi' and Robbie Swift as 'Ed.' Jaylen Lyndon Hunter alternates the role of 'Young Simba', along with Charlie Kahler.
VIDEO: FROZEN and THE LION KING on Broadway Included in New ONE DAY AT DISNEY Documentary
by Kaitlin Milligan - Aug 23, 2019
On Thursday night at D23 Expo, Ricky Strauss, president, Content & Marketing for Disney+ and Good Morning America's Robin Roberts announced One Day at Disney, a spectacular collaboration between Disney Publishing Worldwide and Disney's new streaming service. The new, 224-page coffee table book and the documentary series will both arrive on December 3, highlighting the talented men and women who bring life to some of Disney's most beloved stories.
Disney Publishing Worldwide and Disney+ Announce ONE DAY AT DISNEY
by Sarah Jae Leiber - Aug 22, 2019
This evening at D23 Expo, Ricky Strauss, president, Content & Marketing for Disney+ and Good Morning America's Robin Roberts announced One Day at Disney, a spectacular collaboration between Disney Publishing Worldwide and Disney's new streaming service. The new, 224-page coffee table book and the documentary series will both arrive on December 3, highlighting the talented men and women who bring life to some of Disney's most beloved stories.