Most of us have heard the tale of
Simba's struggle to own his heritage and rise to power in his father's paw-prints, but if you've only seen it on screen then you've missed out on some of the darker facets of the story. Don't misunderstand and think that this musical is dark. It's a Disney production. And Elton John wrote the lyrics, so it would never be that dark, but it's darker than the film. And a far better theatrical experience because of it.
Cartoons can be tragic,
Watership Down, anyone? But Simba's digital journey isn't anywhere near as gripping as the stage version. The fact that the actors and band are there with you gives that special thrill that only a live performance can. Hearing those African vocal harmonies in the flesh is actually very emotive.
But it's the clever translation of the drawn characters into puppets and costumes that really elevates
The Lion King (musical) to greater emotional heights than the film. Some characters are just created with clever face paint and headdresses, but some are hand puppets and some are large puppets that it takes two people to move. The overall effect of the different sized animals with their totally unique and natural ways of moving is fantastic, it really sets the scene and makes this musical stand out from anything else that's currently on in the west end.
Wildebeests flood the gorge
Kids will love
The Lion King: it's familiar, it has all the songs from the film and more, but it's even more exciting – especially the bit where the wildebeest flood the gorge. But this isn't a kids show. The puppets and effects, and the music, are stylish enough to keep grown ups attention too. And Timon and Pumbaa are just as funny as they are in the film. If your little one hasn't seen it then bear in mind that the minimum age for guests in three. But you should bring them when they are three: it's the circle of life. If you're still unsure have a look at the
video blog the cast keep.
The Lion King is
currently booking until the 8th of Feb. 2012
