Walt Disney’s animated film “The Lion King” was a huge box office success; Simba, the lion cub left to his own devices after the death of his father, who has to face a number of challenges... before he can finally be crowned king in his turn, tugged at audiences’ heartstrings.
The Théâtre Mogador will be hosting the musical comedy of the same name, based on the cartoon film, this autumn.
Director Julie Taymor, a young woman with an eclectic artistic profile, has turned the film version into an enchanting theatre adaptation. She had rewritten the story and enriched it with new songs by Elton John, South African melodies and beats, choreography and lively decor.
The production, which has won six Tony awards for best musical, director, choreography, decor, costumes and lighting, requires no fewer than 400 costumes, 200 masks and over 100 puppets.
Don’t expect to see the artistes completely hidden within their costumes. Julie Taymor brilliantly emphasises the duality of man and beast in each character by placing the masks above the actors’ heads. The effect is utterly magical.
Featuring about 40 artistes and 20 actors, the production has been entirely dubbed in French, from the dialogues to the songs.
A show for all the family to enjoy.

S.C.-R.

photo © Stage Entertainment