THE LION KING to Return to Sydney, December 2013

NSW Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Arts, George Souris and President of Disney Theatrical Productions, Thomas Schumacher today announced that one of the most popular musicals in history, THE LION KING, will play Sydney's Capitol Theatre from December 2013.

THE LION KING is a worldwide phenomenon. Since its Broadway premiere on November 13, 1997, 19 productions around the globe have been seen by more than 63 million people and grossed more than $4.7 billion.

Thomas Schumacher, Producer and President Disney Theatrical Productions said: "Australia – and Sydney in particular – have embraced our Disney stage musicals as warmly as audiences anywhere in the world and we are thrilled that THE LION KING is being invited back. We look forward to re-introducing Sydney to Julie Taymor's singular, captivating vision."  

THE LION KING is an established tourism magnet internationally and here in Sydney.  The last season ran for almost two years and played to 1.35 million people.

Mr Souris said "We wanted to ensure that Sydney would host one of the world's most enduring musical events," he said.

Mr Souris said that the 2013 production was expected to attract 50,000 visitors from interstate and overseas generating $36 million in new money for NSW.