The Muni closes out its summer season with its first-ever junior production – an enchanting popular story that’s sure to inspire as well as entertain. With music and lyrics by Elton John and Tim Rice, The Lion King, Jr. is packed with memorable tunes, carefully crafted and colorful costumes, and a talented cast of kids.
Based on the Disney movie of the same name, Lion King, Jr. hits all the same plot points, merging aspects of the famous film and the Broadway show all bundled into an approximately 75-minute one-act production.
The musical tells the story of Simba, a strong-willed lion cub and heir to the throne of the African Pride Lands who just can’t wait to be king. He learns about the responsibilities of leadership and how all living things are connected from his noble father Mufasa, while the shaman of the Pride Lands, a wise mandrill named Rafiki, guides him through important traditions and life lessons.
We also meet Mufasa’s brother, Scar, ever envious and conniving, who has set his own sights set on the throne. When Simba’s world is tragically turned upside down, he’s forced out into the world on his own and has to grow up fast. Along the way, he befriends Timon and Pumbaa, a carefree meerkat and kindhearted warthog, respectively. They decide to live a life free from responsibility, instead embracing the mantra “hakuna matata” (“no worries” in Swahili). Time passes and eventually, Simba reconnects with his childhood friend, Nala, who reminds him of his obligations and helps him face his destiny.
For director Tiffany Williams, the experience of bringing Lion King, Jr. to the stage touches on many of the things that make theater great.
“The show has been a wonderful opportunity to foster a love of theater with young people,” she said. “There’s a lot of mentoring and collaboration with these kids who come from all over the area.”
Having previously directed junior shows, she appreciates a young actor’s curiosity and impressive work ethic. There’s also great joy in witnessing when they experience things for the first time, like harmonies coming together or trying on costumes.
Williams credits a lot of the show’s success to the many connections made throughout the process.
“There’s an expression of unity and diversity that’s very unique. Everyone experiences it – from the cast, the staff and parents. Audiences will, too. They will be able to see it, hear it and feel it.”
It’s also an expression of the progress made towards achieving a long-term goal.
“For many years, maybe a dozen or so kids were part of one show in a season.” Williams said. “Here, they make up the entire cast. It’s worthwhile to celebrate that and the sense of community it creates.”
Speaking with three of the cast members, all current or recent high school grads, it’s easy to pick up on the connections that have been forged and the genuine dedication to the story.
For Jonathan Alamu, who plays grown Simba, he relates to his character’s journey to find himself. “I remember watching the animated film and loving the music. It’s such a powerful story,” he said.
For Sydney Williams, who plays Rafiki, the royal adviser, the importance of “believing in yourself” is a major theme. She said the show tells us, “We all have the power to overcome our fears and do whatever we put our minds to.”
For Olivia Garren, who portrays Simba’s childhood friend and future queen, Nala, getting to know the other performers and forming bonds with the cast was “amazing.” She thinks audiences will be inspired by the show and sees it as a way to “bring light into the community.”
Garren said, “I saw the Broadway production and was blown away. I want to bring that to local audiences and inspire them in the same way.”
All three talked about how the final touches of costumes and makeup bring their characters to life. The sculpted masks and headdresses by Rani Gosnell Ashlee and Kyle Bollinger, colorful costuming by Devin Walter, and detailed makeup by Kylie Stout are indeed impressive. Sets were still in the works but coming to colorful life. Audiences are in for a real treat.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly theatrical journey, Lion King, Jr., with its themes of identity and connection to culture, will resonate across generations. For young audience members, though, the show is sure to serve as a vibrant introduction to the magic of live theater
The shows run three nights only, Aug. 20-22. Gates open at 7 p.m. Tickets for reserved seats can be purchased at themuni.org/disneyslionkingjr
