Getting Ready for ‘Tale of the Lion King’ at Disneyland Park, Debuting at the Fantasyland Theatre May 28
Originally published at Disney Parks News
In just two short days, you’ll be able to enjoy a new staging of “Tale of the Lion King”. A unique, story-theatre adaptation of Disney’s “The Lion King.” At the Fantasyland Theatre in Disneyland park!
The show was an instant hit when it first debuted in 2019 at Disney California Adventure park, and now it will be presented as a more spectacular stage production. Featuring all-new choreography, set pieces and costume designs, along with original musical arrangements.
Susana Tubert, creative director of Live Entertainment at Disneyland Resort, describes one of the new artistic approaches to the stage show.
“In transposing the 2019 production of ‘Tale of the Lion King’ from a small outdoor stage at Disney California Adventure to the magnificent Fantasyland Theatre in Disneyland park, we incorporated a new medium. Uniquely created artistic projections bring to life the individual settings of the story throughout the performance,” said Tubert. “And in doing so, we visually depict the tale shared by the Storytellers of the Pride Lands. Our show will move audiences as they step into a world of vibrant sights and sounds. That is both culturally authentic and uniquely Disney!”
“Tale of the Lion King” is narrated by The Storytellers of the Pride Lands. A traveling troupe who re-enacts the tale of how a timid lion cub became a powerful king. Through dialogue, song, dance, and live percussion. As guests rediscover Simba’s journey, they’ll enjoy unique arrangements of treasured songs. Including “Circle of Life,” “Hakuna Matata” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” Every aspect of “Tale of the Lion King” from the scenic and costume designs to choreography and integration of Swahili dialogue and lyrics honor and draw inspiration from the cultural roots of this timeless story.
Take a look at this video from a recent rehearsal for the show. Which includes heartwarming interviews from “Tale of the Lion King” show director Paul Bryant, and one of the show’s choreographers, Kevin Wilson. He’s partnered with his brother, Marcel Wilson on the all-new choreography.
Tubert added, “I’m proud to say that through the extraordinary collaboration between our show director Paul Bryant, new-to-the-show choreographers Kevin and Marcel Wilson, and the entire Disney Live Entertainment team. This new theatrical adaptation of the beloved animated film ‘The Lion King’ is unlike any other!”
Upon its debut at Disneyland park, there will be even more ways to celebrate this beloved show.
From May 28 to July 4, 2022, you can unleash your roaring creativity with a coloring craft activity before each performance. You can then use your creation to dance along with the “Hakuna Matata” musical number!
And you may enhance your “Tale of the Lion King” experience even further. By heading over to Troubadour Tavern, to celebrate with new, tasty offerings. Inspired by the show! Read more about the specialty food items and snag the Pride Rock Punch recipe in this Cooking Up the Magic blog post.
“Tale of the Lion King” is one of the ways guests can “Celebrate Soulfully” at Disneyland Resort this summer. The show will run Thursday through Monday at the Fantasyland Theatre. Be sure to check Disneyland.com or the Disneyland app for specific showtimes.
Theme Park reservations and valid admission for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited. It is subject to availability and not guaranteed. Entertainment, experiences, and offerings may be modified. It may be limited in availability or unavailable. It is subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/Updates for important information to know before visiting.
