REVIEW | The Lion King, Lyceum Theatre
★ ★ ★ ★
Reviewer - Mia
*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review
I always find it interesting how things you’ve loved as a child affect you when you’re older. The film The Lion King was one of my favourite Disney films when I was little, and when I finally saw the stage show, I remember being thrilled that it translated so well onto stage.
Ten years later, I returned to see the show. The opening may be the most beautiful - and emotional - theatrical scene there is. The beauty and grace of the costumes, animals and the music is stunning.
This does mean that the rest of the show, albeit fantastic, struggles to live up to it. The costumes and music remain sublime, whilst the choreography is exceptional, but it's not quite as vibrant or powerful.
Rafiki (Thenjiwe Nofemele) is outstanding, stealing the show with their vocals, movements and timing. Nofemele lights up the stage every time and also has a few of the best comedic moments, with Simba (Jay Hlatshwayo). Timon (Jamie McGregor) and Pumbaa (Mark Roper) are just as funny - if not funnier - than in the film and their performances are excellent.
In general, performances are strong, although some actors are weak by comparison, which is a shame as it’s such an energetic and heartfelt show, with a fantastic ensemble. There were also a few sound issues during this performance, especially for the young Simba (Theo Querica) and Nala (Amber Koduah-Hutchison), which detracted a little bit in the first part of the show.
Staging as a whole is well done, with artistic flair, colour and creativity, although I Just Can’t Wait to Be King is a little underwhelming, in spite of the asides made by Zazu (Gary Jordan). There are also other jokes that fail to land, which is a little awkward, especially those updates in recent years.
That said, it’s hard to argue with the faces of the audience who are for the most part mesmerised by the performances and it is a really good show.
At Lyceum Theatre until 11 February 2024
