The Lion King

Musical

Writers: Roger Allers Irene Mecchi Elton John Tim Rice

Overview

Show Information

Music
Lyrics
Based on the Play/Book/Film
Disney's 1994 animated film, The Lion King
Category
Musical
Number of Acts
2
Tony Award®
Best Musical 1998
First Produced
1997
Genres
Fairy Tale/Fantasy
Settings
Fantasy/Imaginary, Multiple Settings, Spectacle
Time & Place
the plains of africa
Cast Size
large
Orchestra Size
Large
Dancing
Heavy
Ideal for
Large Cast, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre
Casting Notes
Mostly male cast
Includes late teen, young adult, adult, child characters

Synopsis

Based on the 1994 Disney animated feature film of the same name and William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, The Lion King is the story of Simba, an adventurous and energetic lion cub who is next in line to be king of the Pride Lands, a thriving and beautiful region in the African savanna. When Simba’s father Mufasa is killed by his uncle Scar, though, Simba is led to believe that his father’s death is his fault, and he is encouraged to run away forever. Scar seizes power and with his already unstable mind deteriorating, the Pride Lands experiences a darkness and desolation from which only Simba can save the animals of the kingdom. Featuring classic songs from the film such as “Circle of Life,” “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” “Hakuna Matata,” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” The Lion King is a story and a spectacle about identity, family, and responsibility that is enjoyed worldwide by people of all ages.

Lead Characters


The Lion King guide sections