The Lion King
Lyceum Theatre
Synopsis
Audiences all over the world love the story of The Lion King and they have done ever since Walt Disney Pictures released it in cinemas back in 1994. It would spawn many sequels, television shows and games, but it is the Broadway musical that turned heads the most and it is this production that continues in the West End to this day, with its run at the Lyceum Theatre continuing strong. It is one of many London shows that have their origins on cinema screens and, by the end of 2011, will also be one of two that were spawned from animated hits (the other being Shrek the Musical), and it is a testament to the story that it has worked across mediums.
Right from the beginning of The Lion King the audience is hooked and just like the classic movie version it opens with a great rendition of Elton John’s The Circle of Life, with the animals of the Prideland flocking to Pride Rock to witness the birth of Simba, the new Lion Cub. The son of King Mufasa, we go on to follow him as he grows up alongside his friend Nila and gets into trouble along the way, all the while attempting to stay clear of his villainous Uncle Scar.
For it is Scar that want the throne of the Prideland to himself and takes on wicked means to get it, causing a stampede that kills his brother King Mufasa and blaming Simba so that he flees his home for good. It leaves Scar alone to rule supreme and for Simba to wander alone for many years, gripped with guilt. But one day Simba decides it is time to return to the Prideland and as an adult lion embarks on a journey to face Scar once and for all.
The show first opened on Broadway in 1997 with Julie Taymor (designer and director) working hard behind the scenes to bring it to fruition. Two years later the production would open at the Lyceym and it is here that it continues to this day, attracting numerous punters and proving to be a lasting effort in the West End. Expect it to remain for many years to come.
The Lion King continues at the Lyceum Theatre and is booking well into 2011.
Discounted Tickets
Valid Tuesday to Thursday from 4th January until 9th February
Valid Tuesday to Thursday from 4th January until 9th February
Valid Tuesday to Thursday from 4th January until 9th February
Venue Information
Lyceum Theatre
Wellington Street
London
WC2E 7RQ
View Map
Directions
Take the Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden station and exit into the piazza. The theatre is approximately 10 minutes walk.
