Erick D. Patrick to Star as Simba for First Six Weeks of THE LION KING in Toronto

After eight weeks of rehearsals, the new Toronto production of Disney’s The Lion King will begin performances on Saturday, November 2 at Toronto’s Princess of Wales Theatre. It’s a moment the cast, orchestra and crew of over 125 have worked tirelessly to reach.  
 
However, one member of the company has had to step away from this moment. Aphiwe Nyezi, who stars as Simba, has suffered an injury that requires at least six weeks to heal.  Erick D. Patrick, who stars as Simba in the North American tour, will play the role in Toronto until Nyezi’s return.  
 
Coincidentally, the touring production is currently performing at Ottawa’s National Arts Centre, so Patrick was able to make the short trip to Toronto, allowing this new production to begin performances on schedule. 
 
Patrick was last at the Princess of Wales Theatre in December 2022 with the touring production of Jesus Christ Superstar, which he performed across the continent. Prior to that he toured in another Broadway show, Motown, The Musical.
 
The entire Toronto company wishes Neyzi a speedy recovery, and they welcome Patrick with gratitude and excitement.

ABOUT THE CAST

 
The cast of the new Toronto production consists of: Salvatore Antonio as Scar, Zama Magudulela as Rafiki, David D’Lancy Wilson as Mufasa, Will Jeffs as Zazu, Trevor Patt as Pumbaa, Brian Sills as Timon, Camille Eanga- Selenge as Nala, Jewelle Blackman as Shenzi, Joema Frith as Banzai and Simon Gallant as Ed.
 
The two roles of the lion cubs in the show will each be shared by three young actors. Young Nala will be performed by Zora Cameron, Ana Victoria Dinapo and Nendia Lewars, and Young Simba will be played by Lucien Duncan-Reid, Ira Nabong and Oliver Woon.
 
The ensemble includes: Caleb Ajao, Damien Broomes, Wade Buller, Krystle Chance, Lisa Michelle Cornelius, Isabel Dela Cruz, Vania Dodoo-Beals, Jordan Faye, Felander, Alex Furber, Katherine Gayle-Keswa, Tristan Ghostkeeper, Rose-Mary Harbans, Jasmine Huang, Rebaone Ben Kgosimore, Lia Loewen, Lisakhanya Matrose, Adrienne Metivier Taylor, Khayaloxolo Mniki, Iteboge Modipane, Buhle Nkomo, Martina Ortiz Luis, Hugo Pimentel, Busisiwe Shezi, Elljay Timmangen, Luc Trottier, Trayvon Ward, Ocean Williams, Tenaj Williams, Zachary Williams, Oren Williamson, Zinzi Xalisa, Marlee Young and Angel Zuma.
 
Tickets for The Lion King in Toronto are now on sale at www.mirvish.com or by calling 1-800-461-3333.

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