January 22nd, 2013 
As the sun rose during the “Circle of Life,” the animals of the Pride Lands came to life on stage at Austin’s Bass Concert Hall during Broadway Across America’s Disney’s The Lion King.
(Photo Credit: TexasMonthly.com)
Audience members young and old laughed along with subtle jokes from the hyenas, or witty lines from Timon and Pumbaa. While the majority of the members remember when Disney originally released the movie in 1994, it was younger theatre goers enjoying the magic and the story of The Lion King that touched my heart.
One of my favorite songs will always be “Hakuna Matata.” It is just such a fun, get up and dance song that brings some light to the otherwise dreary events that occurred previously.
Seeing the animals and the story brought to life on stage, through director Julie Taymor’s visual images, was astounding, the way the animals moved across the stage and interacted with each other. While there were many songs from the movie, there were several that rounded out the musical. As emotional as the silver screen version is, the musical still brings tears to my eyes.
The acting was wonderful. Shenzi, played by Rashada Dawan, brought just the right amount of evilness and wit to the role, as the ringleader of the hyenas. It was exciting seeing her on stage and, in a weird way, cheering her on, even though she was evil.
(Photo Credit: QueenBeeTickets.com)
The Lion King is in town until February 10. It is a must-see this season at the Bass Concert Hall, and it will provide fun for the whole family.
“You are more than what you have become.”
WHEN: Now through Sunday, Feb. 10, 2013
WHERE:
Bass Concert Hall
2350 Robert Dedman
Austin, TX 78712
Ph. 512-477-6060
TICKETS: Tickets start at $31.50. To purchase tickets, visit the Bass Concert Hall ticket office.
Love the review Meera, and what a fantastic show! I completely agree, everyone who has the chance to see it should try and get out before it closes in a few weeks.