‘The Lion King’ announces new West End cast from May 2023

Owen Chaponda and Merryl Ansah will play Simba and Nala in the Disney musical. It's currently playing at the Lyceum Theatre through October 2023.

The circle of life continues with a new The Lion King West End cast from 9 May 2023. The Lion King continues in its 24th year at the Lyceum Theatre.

Owen Chaponda takes over the role of Simba from Kayi Ushe. Chaponda made his West End debut in the ensemble of the Disney musical in 2017. He’s since starred in Back to the Future.

Merryl Ansah takes over the role of Nala from Janique Charles. She’s previously played Heather Duke in Heathers at Theatre Royal Haymarket.

The Lion King cast includes George Asprey as Scar, Jorell Coiffic-Kamall as Banzai, Rhiane Drummond as Shenzi, Shaun Escoffery as Mufasa, Gary Jordan as Zazu, Jamie McGregor as Timon, Thenjiwe Thendiva Nofemele as Rafiki, Mark Roper as Pumbaa, Mark Tatham as Ed, and ensemble members Gibsa Bah, Shaquille Brush, Stedroy Cabey, Nikki Cheung, Kat Collings, Marlee Jay, Tomas Larraguivel, Gennaro Maffettone, Lanya Matthews, Daniel Mejia, Sipho Mlombile, Ntethelelo Nhlapo, Dillan Hope Suttle and Francesca Thompson.

Based on the Disney animated film of the same name, The Lion King follows Simba as he embarks on a lifechanging journey to become King of the Pride Lands. But to do this, he must defeat Mufasa's brother Scar. The Lion King features songs such as “Hakuna Matata,” “Shadowland,” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?”

Who is in The Lion King in London?

Owen Chaponda and Merryl Ansah will play Simba and Nala in the Disney musical. The pair start performances on 9 May 2023.

The Lion King is at the Lyceum Theatre.

Book The Lion King tickets on London Theatre.

Photo credit: The Lion King (Photo courtesy of production)