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.
Interview: Darlene Drew, Flutist of THE LION KING At Devos Hall
by Brian Hilbrand - Apr 1, 2026
'The Lion King', currently playing in Detroit, roars back into Grand Rapids April 8 - 26, 2026, at DeVos Performance Hall for a three-week engagement. As The Lion King returns to Grand Rapids for the first time since its 2019 premiere as part of the Broadway Grand Rapids 25/25 series, several Michigan-born accomplished musicians take center stage. Broadway World Michigan was fortunate to interview Darlene Drew (Flutist) ahead of the tour’s Grand Rapids stop to talk about the show.
THE GREAT GATSBY On Sale This Week At Devos Performance Hall
by A.A. Cristi - Feb 13, 2026
Broadway Grand Rapids has announced that tickets for the Michigan premiere of THE GREAT GATSBY, based on the beloved novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, will go on sale Thursday, February 12, 2026 at noon for eight performances.
Joey Fatone to Join & JULIET North American Tour for Limited Engagement
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Dec 19, 2025
Joey Fatone will join the North American Tour company of & Juliet, reprising the role of ‘Lance’ following his recent Broadway run. Fatone will join the touring cast for an exclusive engagement in his hometown when the show plays Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando, FL.
Interview: Jeff Plate of TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA
by Brian Hilbrand - Dec 1, 2025
Coming to Grand Rapids, Michigan, on December 7th, 2025, for 2 shows at 2:30 PM and 7:30 PM, the multi-platinum rock group Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) returns with the exciting details of their highly anticipated 2025 Winter Tour. This year, the rock powerhouse will bring back their legendary holiday show, 'The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO & More', to life with a special production, featuring a second set of hits and fan favorites, including a 25th-anniversary salute to Beethoven’s Last Night. Kicking off on November 13, the tour will span 64 cities with 106 performances before concluding on December 30, continuing TSO’s tradition of delivering an unparalleled fusion of rock, classical, and theatrical spectacle — complete with pyros, lasers, and the powerful storytelling that has captured the hearts of generations.
Tickets to & JULIET at DeVos Performance Hall Go On Sale October 23
by A.A. Cristi - Oct 24, 2025
Broadway Grand Rapids has announced that single tickets for the Michigan premiere of & Juliet will go on sale October 23, 2025, at noon. The production will run at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids from March 10 through March 15, 2026.
Cellist Santiago Cañón-Valencia Reveals 2025–26 Season Highlights
by A.A. Cristi - Sep 11, 2025
Cellist Santiago Cañón-Valencia has announced his 2025–26 season with highlights including the San Francisco Symphony, Kansas City Symphony, Macedonian Philharmonic, and the world premiere of Amparo Ángel’s Cello Concerto at the Festival de Música de Morelia.