Disney’s The Lion King currently playing at the Lyceum theatre in the heart of London’s West has defied predictions of a gloomy year for London theatre by reporting yet again record box office sales for a remarkable eighth year running.
The show in London, adapted from Disney’s 1994 animated film, defied a predicted downturn in West End sales due to several high profile events including the European Football Championships in June, followed by the Queens Diamond Jubilee celebrations culminating in the London Olympics, all expected to present alternative entertainment to the London theatre. However the Lion King has reported record takings of over £38.6 million.
David Schrader, executive vice-president and managing director of the Disney Theatrical Group said: “We continue to be humbled and thrilled by the way London audiences embrace Julie Taymor’s extraordinary production. For a musical to achieve its highest gross in its 13th year is almost unparalleled – let alone in a year where other major events dominated the capital.”
The Lion King opened first on Broadway at the New Amsterdam Theatre in November 1997 before receiving its West End premiere at the Lyceum Theatre on 19 October 1999.
The musical written by Elton John and Tim Rice is directed by Judie Taymor and features choreography by Garth Fagan, costumes by Judie Taymor, puppetry and masks by Judie Taymor and Michael Curry and set design by Richard Hudson.
The show has now been seen by over 65 million people across five continents.
With a huge cast of over 40 actors, singers and dancers, the story of The Lion King is miraculously brought to life in London’s West End using masks, puppets and stunningly colourful costumes to tell the story of young lion cub Simba’s epic adventures and the challenges he faces to become the new Lion King.
The sets are amazing and the costumes in The Lion King are the brilliant creations from a uniquely talented team of designers who draw on diverse cultural influences to recreate the rich colours and vast expanses of the African savanna in this daring and inspiring reinvention of one of the most successful animated films of all time. Set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains and to the evocative African rhythms, Disney’s multi-award winning The Lion King musical will give an experience you’ll never forget.
The Lion King is a mind-blowing visual treat, this adaptation of Disney’s much-adored film, The Lion King, transports audiences to a dazzling world that explodes with amazing colours, stunning effects and captivating music. At its heart is the powerful and moving story of Simba and the epic adventure of his journey from wide-eyed cub to his eventual role as King of the Pride lands.
The story has been adapted for the theatre by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi, with music provided by Elton John and additional songs by Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Julie Taymor and Hans Zimmer. The lyrics are by Tim Rice.
There is no better time to go see the Lion King London show as there are a limited number of tickets for the Lyceum theatre available with no booking fee for selected performances. To take advantage of this opportunity hurry and book your tickets whilst stocks last at showsinlondon.ukds.co/show/the-lion-king or call 0871 976 976 7.
