Disney's THE LION KING Releases New Block of Tickets; Show Extends Until May 20

Manila, Philippines--After a week of sold-out preview performances, the world's #1 musical has opened its first international tour at The Theatre at Solaire last 28 March 2018. A spectacular gala saw guests flying in from all corners of the world, led by Disney Theatrical Group President and Producer Thomas Schumacher who was joined by celebrated composer Lebo M, Producer of the international tour Michael Cassel, and theatrical impresario Sir Cameron Mackintosh. Joining them were the leading lights of Filipino media, fashion, and entertainment.

Due to overwhelming demand, the producers have decided to extend the season for 2 more weeks. Disney's THE LION KING is now playing and runs until 20 May 2018. Presented by Michael Cassel Group and Concertus Manila in association with Disney Theatrical Productions, the production's co-presenting sponsors in Manila are Globe and Visa.

"It has been a dream come true to partner with Disney Theatrical Productions to present the world's first international tour of this magnificent production. I am delighted that we can begin this journey with Manila's enthusiastic and welcoming audiences," said Michael Cassel.

"The Philippines has been our home since we began rehearsals in January and the country is now firmly a part of this production's DNA. We will Take That with us as the show embarks on its world tour," he added.

The principal cast of THE LION KING includes Ntsepa Pitjeng who returns to the role of 'Rafiki,' having performed the role in the USA, UK, Brazil, and Switzerland productions. Direct from London's West End production is Mthokozisi Emkay Khanyile in the role of 'Mufasa.' Also from the United Kingdom is music theatre performer Antony Lawrence as 'Scar.'

Australian actor André Jewson features as 'Zazu'; the charismatic New Zealand-born performer Jamie McGregor plays 'Timon', and South African favorite Pierre van Heerden returns as 'Pumbaa.'

Joining the company are six actors from the Philippines. Sharing the role of Young Simba are Julien Joshua Dolor Jr., Gabriel Tiongson, and Omar Sharief L. Uddin; sharing the role of Young Nala are Sheena Kirsten Bentoy, Uma Naomi Martin, and Felicity Kyle Napuli.

Rounding out the principal cast are South African performers Calvyn Grandling, playing the much-loved role of 'Simba'; the up-and-coming star Noxolo Dlamini as 'Nala'; Candida Mosoma returns to the role of 'Shenzi'; Björn Blignaut as 'Banzai,' and Mark Tatham as 'Ed.'

THE LION KING ensemble players are: Chachano Báez, Dayan Kingsley Beukes, Tertia Coetzee-Dippenaar, Viridiana Cortés, Felipe Flores, Jabulani Gambu, Liso Gcwabe, Sheila Hernández, Phumelele Jili, Kudzai Christine Kapswarah, Amanda Kunene, Sfiso Matlala, Lungile Mkhize, Fumane Moeketsi, Noluyanda Mqulwana, Zodwa Mrasi, Lwazi Mzimase, Zolina Ngejane, Thato Nkwe, Thabani Ntuli, Peace Nzirawa, Nonofo Olekeng, Angeles Reyes, Khanyisani Shoba, Phumelele Sikhakhane, Romy Jo Swales, Clifford Tlomatsana, Vuyelwa Tshona, Tlholo Tsotetsi, Benn Welford, Zi-Rong Wu, Daniel Zazueta, Monde Zondi, and Sandile Zondi.

After the Philippines, the international tour of THE LION KING heads to Singapore, Korea, and Taiwan with more engagements to be announced soon.

Buy tickets from TicketWorld.com.ph.

Photo: Oliver Oliveros

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