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The Lion King Tickets

4.8 
13315 reviews
Disney’s award-winning musical has been stunning West End audiences for 23 years.

Children under the age of 3 are not permitted.

Running until 30 March 2025

Run time 2hr 30 min (inc interval)

Includes interval

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Disney’s The Lion King

Taking pride of place in London’s West End since 1997, The Lion King has been delighting audiences for the past three decades. The multi-award-winning musical has redefined family theatre, elevating the genre through its ingenious use of puppetry and jaw-dropping special effects. When theatregoers step into the Lyceum Theatre they are immediately transported into the heart of the Pride Lands. Will you be joining them for an unforgettable trip? 

The Lion King The Musical tells the story of a fearless king who meets his demise at his power-hungry brother’s paws. Simba, the king’s son, is forced to flee to the Serengeti Plains to escape Uncle Scar’s tyranny. It is there that he meets Timon and Pumbaa, an unlikely, but undeniably hilarious double act, who soon become Simba’s best friends.

Although he abandoned his homeland as a young cub, Simba knows he must return and free his people from Scar’s evil rule. With the help of his friends, his father's wisdom, and his newfound courage - can Simba take his rightful place at the top of Pride Rock?

From Screen To Stage

The groundbreaking animation quickly became the highest-grossing film of 1994 and received two Oscars and the Golden Globe award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. It was the second animation to ever take home the prize in that category in the award's 43-year history.

22 years later, The Lion King was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.

Brilliantly reimagined by acclaimed director Julie Taymor, the film has been transformed into a spectacular theatrical experience that explodes with glorious colours, stunning effects, and enchanting music. Taymor made history when she became the first woman to take home a Tony Award for the Broadway version of the production, and quickly went on to pick up an Olivier nomination for the West End transfer. London’s Lion King received eight Olivier nominations in total, taking home the award for Best Choreography and Best Costume Design.

The Lion King The Musical features over 232 puppets and 50 actors, as well as the beloved songs of the film. The multiple Olivier award-winning musical will transport you to the dazzling desert and will have you singing ‘I Just Can’t Wait to be King’ all the way home.

Why It’s Worth The Watch

  • The Lion King has one of the most well-known soundtracks in film and theatre history.
  • Written by Elton John and Tim Rice, three of the film's musical numbers were nominated for The Best Original Song Oscar, with ‘Can You Feel The Love Tonight’ eventually taking home the prize. 
  • Accompanied by an Oscar-winning thematic score from music maestro Hans Zimmer, the classic cartoon hit all the right notes, and The Lion King in London is no different!
  • The musical expands on the movie with multiple exciting additions and changes to the plot.
  • It has been performed nearly 9,000 times in the UK, and is the West End’s 8th longest-running show, and Broadway's 4th!
  • The Lion King in London requires 50 cast members plus an additional 100 people backstage to make each performance happen.
  • It took director Julie Taymor and her team 37,000 hours to build the original puppets and masks.
  • More than 110 million people have experienced the show worldwide.
  • More than 40 musical instruments are used in the West End production. Some of the traditional African drums, such as the djun djun and djembe, can be traced back to the 13th century, to the very foundation of music

Please Bear In Mind

The Lion King is recommended for those aged 6 and up. Anyone aged 16 or under must be accompanied by an adult and may not sit on their own within the auditorium. Children under 3 years of age are not permitted to enter the Lyceum Theatre. 

The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre contains smoke and fog effects as well as strobe lighting. All persons entering the theatre, regardless of age, must have a ticket.

The Lion King Cast

Main Cast

  • Scar - George Asprey 

  • Mufasa - Shaun Escoffery 

  • Rafiki - Thenjiwe Thendiva Nofemele

  • Zazu - Gary Jordan 

  • Timon - Jamie McGregor 

  • Pumbaa - Mark Roper 

  • Simba - Owen Chaponda

  • Nala - Merryl Ansah

  • Shenzi - Rhiane Drummond

  • Banzai - Jorell Coiffic-Kamall

  • ED - Mark Tatham 

  • Young Simba - Emrys Zeph Adamah, Xavier Joshua Beharry, Theo Querico, Carmelo Ivan Seruw-Pedroso

  • Young Nala - Mia-Nicole Alexander, Divine Cole, Isabelle Dawodu, Amber Koduah-Hutchison

The Lion King Creatives

Main Creatives

  • Director, Costume Design, Mask/Puppet Co-Design, Additional Lyrics - Julie Taymor

  • Music - Elton John

  • Lyrics - Tim Rice 

  • Additional Music & Lyrics, Additional Vocal Score - Lebo M

  • Additional Music & Lyrics, Additional Score - Mark Mancina

  • Book - Roger Allers 

  • Book - Irene Mecchi

  • Choreographer - Garth Fagan

Upcoming Performance Times

Saturday21 September 2024
Saturday21 September 2024
Sunday22 September 2024
Tuesday24 September 2024
Wednesday25 September 2024
Wednesday25 September 2024
Thursday26 September 2024
14:30
19:30
14:30
19:30
14:30
19:30
19:30

Performance Months

Jump directly to a month to select a performance

Age restriction

Children under the age of 3 are not permitted.

Running time

2hr 30 min (inc interval)

Performance dates

10 August 2021 - 30 March 2025

Content

Disney's The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre contains smoke and fog effects as well as strobe lighting.

Special notes

** Guests must be seated no later than 5 minutes prior to show start time.**

Access

For wheelchair and access tickets to the Lyceum Theatre please call 0800 912 6972;

Recent Reviews

4.8
13315 reviews

Latest The Lion King News

The Lyceum Theatre best seats and seating plan

News

The Lyceum Theatre best seats and seating plan

The Lyceum Theatre is a well-known venue with an equally prominent history. It was established in the heart of London in 1765 and has since then hosted numerous forms of entertainment, including the first London exhibition of waxworks by Madame Tussauds. Over the years, it has become a remarkable west end venue, hosting top shows. If you plan to attend a performance at this venue, it's crucial to know where to sit for the best possible view. Keep reading to find out more.

What are the best seats at The Lyceum Theatre?

There are various seating options available in The Lyceum Theatre, all of which make for a perfect visit to the theatre. The Stalls are a great choice if you want to feel part of the action, with a great view. If you prefer more legroom, then Row R in the stalls will allow you to kick back and relax while enjoying the show.

Above the stalls is the Royal Circle, which offers an excellent view of the entire stage. This is an ideal spot for families, as all rows are raked. On the same level, you'll find the private boxes. There are eight Boxes in total, with Boxes E and K being close to the stage, providing an unobstructed view of the stage. Boxes A, B, F, and G are set further back and higher up the sides of the auditorium, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a luxurious theatre experience.

Going up another level, you'll find the Grand Circle, which is a good option for those looking for reasonably priced seats. The view from the Grand Circle at the Lyceum Theatre offers excellent wide views of the stage, but the safety rails may sometimes obscure the view.

25 Jul, 2024 | By Rebecca Young

Best Musicals for Families

News / Features

Best Musicals for Families

With dozens of West End shows across London’s theatreland, it can be difficult to decide which West End show to see. Thankfully, there are plenty of family-friendly musicals and plays in London that your little ones will enjoy. It might be because there are child actors in the show that they can look up to, like Annie, Les Miserables, or The Lion King. Or perhaps they’re already familiar with the story, like Matilda or Frozen the Musical. They may even be treading the boards themselves and starring in one of the best shows for school productions. And did you know that introducing children to the best theatre for kids in London may even boost their academic performance? Theatre is a powerful educational tool. 

So take a look at what’s on in London and check out some of the best London shows in 2024 - you won’t be disappointed.

Matilda the Musical

There are no revolting children in Matilda the Musical, just a Matilda song! Roald Dahl’s David and Goliath-inspired story of one little girl who dares to defy the odds and change her life continues to wow audiences at the Cambridge Theatre

The Matilda musical story follows a similar premise to the Roald Dahl book and the original Matilda film. When Matilda Wormwood starts at Crunchem Hall, she’s bullied by evil headmistress Miss Trunchbull, and never supported at home by her parents. But as Matilda finds solace in her teacher, Miss Honey, Matilda uses her imaginative, inquisitive mind to conjure up stories that can become a reality. Tim Minchin neatly adapts the Matilda story into a whimsical West End show, and it even made Olivier Awards history. Filled with heartwarming moments that children will love (can we ride on the swings?) there are a few humorous moments in there for adults too. 

The Lion King

The Disney musical continues to roar at the Lyceum Theatre where it’s done so since 1999. The Lion King musical follows the same story as the film: join little lion cub Simba as he bravely leaves the land to journey across the Serengeti and become King of the Pride Lands. Listen out for all the Disney classics too, including 'Circle of Life' and 'Hakuna Matata'. In fact there are so many songs, that we've dedicated an entire article to them.

Although The Lion King musical is an uplifting and courageous tale, you’ll want to pack your tissues for the sad moments (we’re still mourning Mufasa’s death). But you won’t need the tissues for too long. Look around the theatre in awe of all the puppets used in The Lion King. It’ll teach little audience members - perhaps it’s their first West End show? - about the animal kingdom and what it means to grow. 

Wicked

Look to the western sky and defy gravity with a visit to the Apollo Victoria Theatre for Wicked. Set as a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, it’s a fun family-friendly musical that follows friends Elphaba and Glinda as they become the Wicked Witch of the West and the Good Witch of the East. Stephen Schwartz’s musical is filled with all the betwixt magic you’d expect from a show about witches and wizardry: spot the flying monkeys, watch the bubbles float down, and turn your head at the mythical dragon atop the stage. 

You may want to prepare your children for slightly darker moments in Wicked, such as when characters die (we’re not giving any spoilers here, you’ll have to see Wicked for yourself!). If you want to brush up on your Wicked musical knowledge before seeing the show, take a listen to all the songs beforehand. But if you’ve got a mini Glinda running around, or a smiley, happy Boq-to-be, then they’ll love Wicked.

22 Jul, 2024 | By Sophie Thomas

Educate yourself on the best musicals for primary school productions

News / Features

Educate yourself on the best musicals for primary school productions

School plays. Equally fun and stressful. Whether you have a shining group of starlets or a wild bunch of expressive individuals, getting the right show is the key to a successful production and pleasing the grown-ups. We’re here to help you find the best musicals for primary school productions, so you can check one task off your never-ending list.

What are the best musicals for schools?

Looking at what’s on in London may seem like the obvious way to choose your school’s next show, but the best musicals for families may not be the best musicals for little performers. We’ve picked five shows that are suitable and engaging for your pupils. There are even junior versions available for younger actors.

Matilda the Musical

Is it meta, or is it just appropriate? The school-based musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic book tells the story of a gifted young girl who stands up to her rotten head teacher. The Matilda the Musical songs are already anthems for kids nationwide, so you won’t have to teach them the lyrics. Though the titular character Matilda sings the big numbers 'Naughty' and 'Quiet', there are plenty of ensemble tunes which will get all the pupils involved. 

Tim Minchin’s mischievous humour will keep the cheekier members of the class engaged while the big dance routines will burn that energy. It really is one of the best musicals for primary school productions.

And why stop there? You can get Matilda tickets and go on a class trip to see the young actors live on stage at the Cambridge Theatre. What’s more inspiring than that?

Disney’s Frozen the Musical

For the first time in forever, you won’t have to convince your class to get involved. Disney’s Frozen the Musical is an epic tale of sisterly love and self-acceptance. With all of their favourite Frozen songs and costumes, it’ll be a magical experience for the youngsters. The only problem? There may be a fight over who will play each of the beloved Frozen characters.

You will be everyone’s favourite teacher when you bring out the sheet music to Elsa’s 'Let It Go' and Olaf’s 'In The Summer'. And don’t even get us started on the glitter of it all.

If you want to prepare for next year’s show, go and see it! But you’ll have to be quick and get your Frozen the Musical tickets soon as its final performance at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane is scheduled for September.

12 Jul, 2024 | By Carly Clements-Yu

A Definitive Guide to The Lion King Songs

News / Features

A Definitive Guide to The Lion King Songs

The Lion King musical, a beloved production on the West End, is based on the classic Disney animated film. This musical adaptation features stunning visuals, a captivating story, and an incredible score composed by Elton John and Tim Rice, complemented by additional music by Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Julie Taymor, and Hans Zimmer

The Lion King has enchanted audiences worldwide with its powerful storytelling, memorable characters, and unforgettable music. From the iconic opening number 'Circle of Life' to the triumphant finale, the musical seamlessly weaves a narrative of love, loss, and redemption. Dive into this guide to explore the magic of The Lion King's songs, and get ready to book your tickets at London's Lyceum Theatre.

The Most Memorable Songs from The Lion King

The Lion King's songs, performed by an incredible cast, have become theatregoer favourites. Each song contributes to the narrative, providing depth and emotional resonance to the story. Experience them for yourself at London's Lyceum Theatre.

Circle of Life

The opening number 'Circle of Life' is one of the most iconic moments in the musical. It introduces the audience to the story's world and the birth of Simba, the lion cub destined to be king. The song captures the essence of life's cyclical nature and is a breathtaking spectacle on stage.

Grasslands Chant

'Grasslands Chant' serves as a beautiful choral piece that sets the scene for the story. It helps transition from the opening number into the narrative, depicting the vibrant world of the Pride Lands.

The Morning Report

'The Morning Report' is a light-hearted song performed by Zazu, the royal advisor, as he reports the morning's news to Mufasa and Simba. The song introduces some humour into the story and adds character to Zazu's role.

I Just Can't Wait to Be King

'I Just Can't Wait to Be King' is a lively and exuberant song performed by young Simba and Nala as they imagine Simba's future reign. The song is full of energy and showcases the youthful optimism of the characters.

Chow Down

'Chow Down' is a playful yet menacing song performed by the hyenas as they plot their scheme. It highlights their mischievous nature and their connection to the story's villain, Scar.

They Live in You

'They Live in You' is a powerful song sung by Mufasa to Simba. It conveys the theme of ancestral guidance and the importance of remembering one's heritage. The song's poignant lyrics offer wisdom to Simba.

Be Prepared

'Be Prepared' is the villainous anthem sung by Scar and the hyenas as they plot to overthrow Mufasa and take control of the Pride Lands. The song's dark and cunning tone highlights Scar's manipulative character.

The Stampede

'The Stampede' is a pivotal and intense musical number depicting the dramatic moment when a wildebeest stampede takes place in the gorge. This sequence is a critical turning point in the story, as it leads to the tragic death of Mufasa and serves as a crucial catalyst for the plot, setting off a chain of events that lead to Simba's exile and eventual return to reclaim his place as king. The number's dramatic impact leaves a lasting impression on the audience, making it a standout moment in The Lion King.

Rafiki Mourns

'Rafiki Mourns' is an instrumental interlude that conveys the grief and loss felt by the characters after Mufasa's death. It serves as a sombre transition in the narrative.

Hakuna Matata

'Hakuna Matata' is an upbeat and carefree song performed by Timon and Pumbaa, who teach Simba their philosophy of living without worries. The song's catchy melody and light-hearted lyrics offer a playful respite in the story.

Shadowland

'Shadowland' is a moving solo performed by Nala as she leaves the Pride Lands in search of help. The song's haunting melody reflects Nala's determination and strength as she embarks on her journey.

5 Jun, 2024 | By Hay Brunsdon

Celebrating stage and screen this National Cinema Day

News / Features

Celebrating stage and screen this National Cinema Day

To (mis)quote Grease, ‘stage and screen go together like rama lama lama ka dinga da dinga dong, remembered forever as shoo-bop sha wadda wadda yippity boom de boom’. Whether it’s a stage to screen adaptation (Guys and Dolls), a screen to stage adaptation (Aladian), a stage on screen production (A Little Life) or a book to film to stage to musical film juggernaut (Matilda) the cinema will always have a place in our hearts (as do the buckets of popcorn, sweets and nachos that will inevitably clog it)

Screen to stage adaptations are almost as iconic as the Hollywood sign itself. Billy Elliot, Hairspray, and An American in Paris are just some of the West End classics that started their lives outside of theatreland and in the multiplex. The two mediums complement each other immensely (Why do you think cinemas are called movie theatres in America?) So, with that in mind we’ve decided to celebrate #NationalCinemaDay with a list of theatre's biggest blockbusters, and cinematic shows we’d love to see.

2 Sep, 2023 | By Sian McBride

Top 5 theatre shows in London to see this half term

News / Productions / Features

Top 5 theatre shows in London to see this half term

Half term in London gives you the ideal opportunity to de-stress and spend some much-needed time with your loved ones. Making memories is as easy as a trip to the theatre, from the majestic landscapes of the Pridelands to the enchanted fields of Oz, prepare for epic adventures with these family-friendly productions that are suitable for all ages. Torn about what to see? Look no further - here are the top 5 theatre shows to see in London this half term!

8 Feb, 2023 | By Kevin Thomas

Top 5 The Lion King songs #StageySoundtrackSunday

Features

Top 5 The Lion King songs #StageySoundtrackSunday

Disney’s The Lion King is one of the most internationally beloved musicals and is a celebrated West End staple. The musical has been wowing audiences at London’s Lyceum Theatre for 22 years and boasts a widely known soundtrack. The Lion King has music by Sir Elton John and lyrics by Tim Rice. There are 20 songs in the stage musical and we’ve narrowed down our top five for our #StageySoundtrackSunday

13 Mar, 2022 | By Jade Ali

Top 5 stagey love songs #StageySoundtrackSundayKayi Ushe will play Simba when London’s The Lion King reopens

News / Features / Casting

Kayi Ushe will play Simba when London’s The Lion King reopens

A new king of the pride lands has been announced! Kayi Ushe will take on the lead role of Simba in the Disney’s The Lion King at the West End’s Lyceum Theatre. Ushe will be joined by new and returning cast members when the show returns at long last. London The Lion King tickets are now booking for the record-breaking musicals reopening! If you just can’t wait to see Kayi Ushe as Simba and the wonders of this iconic show, then book your theatre tickets now and secure your seats to a show you’ll never forget.

12 May, 2021 | By Jade Ali

London’s The Lion King tickets are now back on sale!

News / Features

London’s The Lion King tickets are now back on sale!

It was recently announced by Disney that The Lion King would be reopening at the West End’s Lyceum Theatre with performances beginning 29 July 2021. The musical is a London landmark and has called the Lyceum home for over 20 years, having been seen by over 16 million people. The best-selling musical closed mid-March 2020 along with the rest of the West End and is set to resume this summer. Tickets for Disney’s The Lion King are now booking for its reopening.

31 Mar, 2021 | By Jade Ali

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