The Lion King is based on a book that was written by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi. It was adapted and directed by Julie Taymor for the stage show. Most of the music and lyrics was written by Elton John and Tim Rice.
The two art forms that are used in the show are drama and music. It is a stage play.
The actors were awesome, they did amazing things to create the illusion that we were in Africa. The costumes and the puppets were so lifelike, you really felt that you were seeing real wild animals on the stage. My favourite animal was the elephant. One amazing thing was that the set was designed in a specific way, so that part of the stage would rise up like Pride Rock.
I thought that the actors really expressed their emotions and feelings beautifully to the audience through their singing, dancing, drumming, acting and puppetry. Two of the drummers were not on the main stage but they were in boxes to the right and left, giving you good surround sound.
I would definitely recommend this play because it is suitable for all ages. Parts of the play were humorous. My favourite character in the play was Rafiki (the monkey) but there were other amusing character in the play as well. Such as: Zazu, Timon and Pumbaa.
This was my first experience of going to the theatre in London. It was an expensive outing but it was worth it. I can't wait to go to the theatre again.
Hi Francis! A few years ago, I went to see this play in The Lyceum, London with my school. I totally agree with everything you have said in your review. The whole play was amazing and the actors expressed themselves greatly. I also liked the part where the animals came down through the audience. It is a great experience being so close to the actors and the puppets. I see you mentioned the part where the stage came up like pride rock...that was one of my favourite parts, because it gave such a dramatic effect. Just like you said, I would also recommend this play to everyone! What a great review you wrote, Francis!