Disney’s The Lion King has been captivating audiences at the Lyceum Theatre since 1999 and remains one of the West End’s most popular musicals. Directed by Julie Taymor, this landmark production brings the African savannah to life through spectacular puppetry, masks and costumes in a theatrical experience unlike anything else in London.
The story follows young Simba, a lion cub who flees his homeland after the death of his father, Mufasa. Guided by the eccentric Timon and Pumbaa, Simba must eventually confront his past and take his rightful place as king. Featuring music by Elton John and Tim Rice, with additional songs by Lebo M, Mark Mancina and Hans Zimmer, the score includes Circle of Life, Can You Feel the Love Tonight, Hakuna Matata and I Just Can’t Wait to Be King.
The London cast is led by Stephenson Ardern-Sodje as Simba, Merryl Ansah as Nala, George Asprey as Scar, Shaun Escoffery as Mufasa, Thenjiwe Nofemele as Rafiki, Alan McHale as Timon, Pierre Van Heerden as Pumbaa, Gary Jordan as Zazu, and Rochelle Sherona as Sarabi. The hyenas are played by Sadia McEwen (Shenzi), Jorell Coiffic-Kamall (Banzai) and Mark Tatham (Ed).
The creative team includes Julie Taymor (director, costume design, mask and puppet co-design), Garth Fagan (choreography), Richard Hudson (scenic design), Donald Holder (lighting design), Michael Curry (mask and puppet co-design) and Steve Canyon Kennedy (sound design). The book is by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi.
The Lion King has been seen by over 110 million people worldwide and is one of the most successful musicals in theatre history. The London production at the Lyceum Theatre is booking until November 2026.
Disney’s The Lion King
Venue: Lyceum Theatre
Date(s): Thu Feb 19 – Sun 1 Nov 2026
Last Updated on February 24, 2026
