The Lion King Musical
Lyceum Theatre
London
T: 0844 8713000
W: thelionking.co.uk
Review by Neil Speight
A SHOW that has become an immovable part of the West End is still as fresh and vibrant as when it started 13 years ago.
Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ at the Lyceum is truly a family experience, though it’s not quite as quaint and cuddly as the animated film on which it is based.
There are some sharp edges among the magical moments, with more than one or two scenes when my youngsters gave a shiver of apprehension.
But the music and the emotion of the piece are just what an adventure should be, there can be no light without dark; no joy without sorrow.
For those who don’t yet know, The Lion King follows the adventures of the young lion cub Simba, as he struggles to accept the responsibilities of adulthood and his destined role of King.
Watching the show, you can see why it is loved by adults and children alike and is one of the top 10 longest running musicals in West End history.
Fun puppets, characters known by all, and some pretty amazing scenery and stage manipulation add to the joy, along with a stunning sound- track, and superb performances, worthy of over 70 global awards.
The current West End cast features East Londoner Shaun Escoffery, who trained at Barking College of Performing Arts, as the old King, Mufasa. I am sure he will graduate to other longer roles and shows in due course because his voice and stage presence are truly superb.
However, you can see why he might not want to move on, this is clearly a happy and united cast whose enjoyment of the piece shines through.
Having made the West End its own, The Lion King has also triumphed on stages around the world and is set for a UK tour from September when it will visit 10 cities.
For those who have not yet seen this moving and exciting production, this is a show like no other and one that shouldn’t be missed.