By Kimberly Harper
Disney’s “The Lion King” has returned to PPAC and it’s a fantastic opportunity to revisit an old favorite or introduce the next generation to the stage adaptation of the 1994 animated film.
In short, this is Hamlet with animals. King of Pride Rock Mufasa welcomes his son Simba, to the delight of the animal kingdom, and to the angst of his brother Scar, who hatches a plot to kill them both and take over the throne. He half succeeds, and Simba, who blames himself for his father’s death, is exiled to the outer jungle to fend for himself.
The musical is based on the 1994 animated movie (which is basically Hamlet with animals), but its transition to stage has to be seen to be believed. All of the familiar characters and songs are present, plus some wonderful new additions (the Act 2 number “He Lives in You” Is especially powerful), and director Julie Taymor brings it to life in a stunning spectacle of dance, light and costumes, all in the style of traditional African storytelling. A literal parade of animals through the aisles opens the show (note: don’t show up late, Disney is serious about not interrupting the procession and you won’t be seated until well into the first act). Birds soar above your head. The stampede in Act 1 is brilliantly imagined, as is the moment in Act 2 when the now-adult Simba looks for answers in a water hole, only to realize that those we’ve lost aren’t really so far away after all.
The talent on this national tour is impeccable. The shining star of this production is Buyi Zama, who plays the shaman-like narrator Rafiki. Her voice is a powerhouse. The night I went, the theater was having some issues with sound balance. At times it was difficult to hear soloists over the orchestra, but not Zama, who probably could have been heard in the parking garage across the street, amplification or no. Dashaun Young, who plays adult Simba has a strong physical presence but practically floats across the stage during his dance numbers. His voice is wonderful but the real treat is watching him leap across the stage, as catlike as anyone could possibly be. Nia Holloway as adult Nala is also gifted with a beautiful, rich voice. The kids who play the young lions, respectively, are adorable and full of energy. It’s a lot of fun to watch them during the Act 1 “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King.” Finally, anyone familiar with Disney villains knows they’re some of the best roles in any production, and this is no exception: Mark Campbell is a deliciously amoral, devious Scar.
The show would be nothing without its ensemble, who switch off between playing animals, trees, grass, and just about anything else you might need to portray a vibrant, living African savannah. Their vocals are tight, the dancing is perfect, and it’s a treat to watch every one of them. Choreographer Garth Fagan has made sure of that.
If you’ve seen the musical before and loved it, you’ll be more than happy with this tour. If you’re new to Disney musicals, this is a great one for children and adults alike. Get your tickets and release your inner child. You won’t be disappointed.
“The Lion King” will run through March 19 at the Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset St., Providence. Tickets may be obtained by calling (401) 421-2787, or online at ppacri.org.
