The Lion King marks its 25th anniversary in 2024 and is still packing them in at London’s Lyceum Theatre. Here’s why it continues to wow groups after a quarter of a century.
Did you know that around 50 cast members make up the extraordinary company of The Lion King, resembling all sorts of animals through costume, mannerisms and gestures. Flocks of birds, a herd of antelope and a giant elephant are just some of the highlights that help bring the African savanna to London’s Covent Garden.
Trevor Gent, group organiser for Encore Theatre and Events for Friends to Enjoy, said: “I think we have seen The Lion King about five or six times since I have been running the group. Not always the same people go of course, but it is always a show that interests new members.
“My tip would be to sit in the stalls for the best experience as it is really quite something when all the various animals come in at the start of the show – it’s well worth a visit.”
As Trevor suggests, the actors manage to captivate their audiences, just as they capture wildlife so dramatically when the iconic Nants’ Ingonyama fills the theatre during the opening scene. The stars on stage manage to convince you, almost immediately, that they are the animals – and do so for the entirety of the performance.
Jayne Collins who creates visits for FedEx Sports & Social Club, Kingsbury, added: “I’ve organised a number of trips over the years for our members to see this amazing show.
Each time I only receive positive comments, and I think it will continue for many years to come as it suits all ages. Children will be introduced to the book and film in their development and the theatre will and should follow on from that - what an experience for them!
“I’ve seen it on numerous occasions as a parent, grandparent and with adult friends as a day out – it gets better and better and long may it continue.”
What happens behind the curtain?
So much thought and detail has gone into making the show the success it is today, even down to the tiger claw markings that sit across the stage – with each marking hand-painted to resemble a real animal’s territory in the wild.
The stage itself is fully automated and split into three sections, meaning it can easily be manoeuvred during the show, sculpting new scenes in one slick motion. Many of the ensemble have around eight costume changes throughout the performance, some of which feature delicately hand-painted masks and headwear moulded by carbon fibre for a lightweight fit.
Anyone playing the role of Zazu trains for weeks with the hornbill puppet to perfect the art of movement. With three triggers to operate the eyes, wings and beak, Zazu is brought to life.
To perform to a packed Lyceum Theatre for 25 years is an incredible achievement, as is the number of times the show has been voted Best Theatre Production by you. Congratulations to The Lion King on this big anniversary from everyone at Group Leisure & Travel. Here’s to the next 25 years… we look forward to seeing it again.
Groups of nine or more save money on tickets. For more information go to www.thelionking.co.uk.
