 "Photo: Photo courtesy of Triangle Arts & Entertainment")
Hakuna Matata, what a wonderful phrase!
These words should be familiar to everyone who has seen or heard of Disney's "The Lion King."
If you have not seen the screen version, you're missing a great film.
The Broadway show, directed by Julie Taymor and now in its 14th year, was in Durham January 4 -30 at the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC).
The stage version features dances and songs not seen in the film, featuring the musical talent of Lebo M and others.
Music from its cinematic predecessor by Elton John and Tim Rice, and Hans Zimmer also brings the film to life onstage.
The story of "The Lion King" focuses on the growth of Simba, a young lion prince who is next in line to become king of "Pride Rock."
His uncle Scar tricks him into running away after Mufasa, Simba's father, dies during a wildebeest stampede.
Simba runs away since he believes his father's death was his fault.
This allows Scar to become king.
Years later, Simba finds his way back home with the help of Timon, a meerkat, and Timon, a warthog, who become his best friends.
Simba reconnects with Nala, the lioness from his past, and they fall in love.
The friends retake "Pride Rock," allowing Simba to become king after Scar's death.
The visuals are stunning, making the audience clap and wonder how producers pulled off such scenes as an elephant walking through the audience, then Mufasa's head appearing in the sky to speak to Simba.
This show is not only fun, it offers life lessons for children and adults.
By being able to see the emotion expressed onstage, the audience feels and believes what they are seeing.
"The Lion King" is a must-see for fans of the film and Broadway alike. You will find yourself singing along and becoming emotional, your mouth hanging open, wanting more. No matter where you can see the show, you have to check it out and be a part of the Circle of Life.
The show's next scheduled stop will be Feb 1-20 in Providence, R.I.
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