Review: THE LION KING at Robinson Performance Hall

At long last, the LION KING has arrived in Arkansas, Long Live the KING.

There is a reason this Lion is still King. Few theatre experiences can match the majesty and magic that the Lion King captures. A sold-out crowd at the Robinson Performance Hall in Little Rock were treated to the first ever appearance in Arkansas of this one-of-a-kind show. This is the equal of the Broadway version, which is even more impressive given the fact that every single piece of this show arrives only a few days before. With music & lyrics by Elton John and Tim Rice and the breathtaking staging originated by Julie Taymor, it's easy to see why the show is beloved the world over. From the second that the lights dim, young and old are transported to the Serengeti. This production was a feast of sight and sound that made you feel lucky just be a part of this world, even if it was just for one evening.

The story of a young lion cub, Simba ( Joziyah Jean-Felix) who is being raised to be the next King. His father, Mufasa (Gerald Ramsey) trains and protects his son but doesn't know his evil brother Scar ( Mark Campbell) has plans to get rid of them both so he can be King. After Scar carries out his plans with the help of hyaenas ( Martina Sykes, Keith Bennett and Robbie Swift) he becomes King and young Simba has vanished from the Pride Lands, thinking he killed his father. With the help of a pair of funny and unusual pals, Timon (Nick Cordileone) and Pumbaa (Ben Lipitz), Simba grows into manhood. The problems of the ravaged Pride Lands finally catch up with adult Simba (Aaron Nelson) when his childhood best friend Nala ( Nia Holloway) discovers him and he is forced to come back to face his fears and take his rightful place as King.

Rafiki (Mukelisiwe Goba) starts the show with such energy it's magnificent. She has such an easy, natural way about her performance you immediately feel welcomed. The power, compassion and intelligence that emanates from Gerald Ramsey, it makes you long for a leader like that in the real world. When he sings "They Live In You" his magnificent voice soars and fills the theatre with hope. Mark Campbell played Scar with such maleficence and relish, that you were torn between disgust and admiration. The appearance of the perfectly cast Nick Cordileone and Ben Lipitz, created an excitement that you could feel from everyone all around. Their comic timing and camaraderie lifts "Hakuna Matata" and all their scenes to higher plane.

Aaron Nelson, appears as adult Simba and his youthful energy gradually becomes the sort of gravitas that is required of a leader. He does a wonderful job of going from happy-go-lucky to strong yet apprehensive. As adult Nala, the wonderful Nia Holloway, has that gorgeous voice that makes you feel warm all over. She plays the part with a richness that makes her the perfect future Queen.

What can be said about the extraordinary set and staging? It hardly seems possible that this show travels with all of the set pieces, puppets and costumes needed to create the amazing world of the African plains. It is nothing short of miraculous and the audience was in awe. The second the first voice is heard and the animals and people start coming down the aisles to the stage is the definition of a transportive experience. The Little Rock crowd was thrilled beyond belief and with good reason. The show was absolutely flawless. It has everything -soaring music and voices, spectacular costumes and stunning dancers. The only downside is, if you wanted to see it again, it might be difficult because the few seats available are going very fast. Get on the phone, jump online or even stand out front begging for a ticket, because this show is perfect. So go and Feel the Love Tonight...

Tickets are currently on sale at Robinson Performance Hall and online at LionKing.com. To charge

tickets, call 501-244-8800 or 866-870-2717. Orders for groups of ten (10) or more may be placed by calling 501-492-3312.

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