Kayi Ushe to play Simba in ‘The Lion King’, returning to the Lyceum Theatre
The "Circle of Life" continues in the West End.
Ahead of The Lion King reopening this summer, the full cast has been announced. Kayi Ushe will play Simba in The Lion King, with performances at the Lyceum Theatre from 29 July and The Lion King tickets on sale now.
Ushe returns to the West End, previously playing Marvin Gaye in Motown the Musical at the Shaftesbury Theatre and in the original London cast of The Book of Mormon. He's also played Lola in a national tour of Kinky Boots.
Principal casting includes George Asprey as Scar, Phil Adèle as Ed, David Blake as Banzai, Janique Charles as Nala, Thenjiwe Thendiva Nofemele as Rafiki, Shaun Escoffery as Mufasa, Gary Jordan as Zazu, Jamie McGregor as Timon, Melone M'Kenzy as Shenzi and Mark Roper as Pumbaa.
Ensemble casting is completed by Etian A Almeida, Thanduxolo Booi, Gesztenye Botos, Gabriel Brasilio, Donna Clovis, Reece Darlington-Delaire, Azola Dlamini, Kuan Frye, Kevin Fullinck, Shak Gabbidon-Williams, Sandile Gontsana, Ryesha Higgs, Du-Wayne Hinds, Candice Holdford, Angela Marie Hurst, Garry Lake, Duane Lamonte, Tramaine Lamy, Lamoi Leon, Jane Carla Leynes, Deja Linton, Francisco Lins, Stephanie Lo, Jonathan Lutwyche, Nonhlanhla Makhathini, Sadia McEwen, Kearabetswe Mogotsi, Mkhize Phumlane Jones, Keitumetse Molea, Nosipho Nkonqa, Poselesto Sejosingoe-Madela, Mlungsi Shabalala, Kristof Skhosana, Luciano Santos Souza, Shannon Taiwo, Barnaby Thompson and Taela Yeomans-Brown.
Based on the Disney animated film, The Lion King follows Simba as he becomes King of the Pride Lands. It's set to an acclaimed score with songs including "I Just Can't Wait to be King" and "Hakuna Matata".
When The Lion King reopens, it'll be one of three Disney musicals in the West End, joining Frozen and Mary Poppins. Nationwide, tours of Beauty and the Beast and Bedknobs and Broomsticks will also begin in 2021.
The Lion King is at the Lyceum Theatre from 29 July.
The Lion King tickets are on sale now.
Photo credit: Kayi Ushe (Photo by James Everett)
Frequently asked questions
What is The Lion King about?
Set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains and to the evocative rhythms of Africa, Disney's multi-award winning musical will redefine your expectations of theatre.
At its heart is the powerful and moving story of Simba - the epic adventure of his journey from wide-eyed cub to his destined role as King of the Pridelands.
Brilliantly reimagined by acclaimed director Julie Taymor, Disney's beloved film has been transformed into a spectacular theatrical experience that explodes with glorious colours, stunning effects and enchanting music.
An iconic, innovative musical that will still take your breath away. This global hit is the most successful stage show in history. Using vibrant puppetry to bring to life the classic Disney film, Julie Taymor’s production was groundbreaking when it debuted and continues to be unlike anything else on the West End. Let yourself be transported, grab your tickets to The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre today.
How long is The Lion King ?
The running time of The Lion King is 2hr 30min. Incl. 1 interval.
Where is The Lion King playing?
The Lion King is playing at Lyceum Theatre. The theatre is located at 21 Wellington Street, London, WC2E 7RQ.
What's the age requirement for The Lion King ?
The recommended age for The Lion King is Ages 6+. Children under 3 are not permitted to enter the theatre. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult and may not sit on their own. All persons entering the theatre, regardless of age, must have a ticket..
How do you book tickets for The Lion King ?
Book tickets for The Lion King on London Theatre.
What are the songs in The Lion King?
The Lion King features the classic tunes from the movie with new songs written specifically for the stage adaptation. New songs, such as “Endless Night”, are intertwined with well-known songs like “The Circle of Life” and “Hakuna Matata.” Read our complete song guide to The Lion King.
Who wrote The Lion King?
The music was composed by Elton John, with lyrics by Tim Rice. Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi wrote the book for The Lion King stage musical.
Who directed The Lion King?
The Lion King on stage was directed by Julie Taymor. At the Tony Awards 1998, she won Best Direction of a Musical.
When did The Lion King open in the West End?
The Lion King opened at the Lyceum Theatre in the West End on 19 October 1999.
Is The Lion King appropriate for kids?
The Lion King is suitable for all audiences but is recommended for ages 6. Children under three will not be admitted.
Is The Lion King good?
The Lion King is a spectacular production that is an excellent time for the whole family. Read our five-star review of The Lion King.
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