Disney’s The Lion King JR. is playing at Frank Venables Theatre starting on May 4, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. through May 5, 2016. The 75-minute musical, designed for middle-school aged performers, is based on the Broadway production directed by Julie Taymor and the 1994 Disney film. The Oliver Elementary Fine Arts Club cast contains approximately 50 students led by Mrs. Lori Martine.
Despite having 23 years of experience producing small choral revues as well as Broadway Junior musicals, I have found this particular production the most challenging undertaking. The challenges also make this show the most exciting to bring to the stage. The actors have learned to sing in several African dialects, dance in the character of an animal as well as portray multi-faceted messages for their audience. These students are amazingly flexible and quick to learn. To be so fearless on-stage at age 8 – 13 is incredible.
The Lion King JR. tells the story of the epic adventures of a curious cub named Simba as he struggles to accept the responsibilities of adulthood and his destiny as king. Along the way, the young lion encounters a colorful cast of characters including spunky lioness Nala, charismatic meerkat Timon, and loveable warthog Pumbaa. To claim his rightful place on the throne and save his beloved Pridelands , Simba must find his inner strength and confront his wicked Uncle Scar. The Lion King JR. features classic songs from the 1994 film such as “Hakuna Matata” and the Academy Award®-winning “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” as well as additional songs penned for the Broadway production.