4.9 ★
My Neighbour Totoro
Gillian Lynne Theatre
£32
About the show
Disney's spectacular musical brings the African savannah to life at the Lyceum Theatre. Winner of six Tony Awards, The Lion King features breathtaking puppetry, stunning costumes, and unforgettable songs by Elton John and Tim Rice including 'Circle of Life' and 'Can You Feel the Love Tonight'.
What is The Lion King musical about?
Set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains, The Lion King tells the powerful story of Simba, a young lion cub destined to be king. When tragedy strikes and his father Mufasa is killed by his treacherous uncle Scar, Simba flees into exile. With the help of his hilarious friends Timon and Pumbaa, Simba must find the courage to return home and claim his rightful place as King of the Pride Lands.
How long has The Lion King been running in London?
Now in its record-breaking 27th year at the Lyceum Theatre, Disney's The Lion King opened in London in October 1999. The production celebrated its 10,000th performance in February 2025, and has been seen by over 19 million people in London alone. Globally, it has played to more than 110 million people, making it one of the most successful stage shows in entertainment history.
What makes The Lion King stage show special?
Director Julie Taymor's revolutionary staging brings the African savannah to life through spectacular puppetry, masks, and costumes. From the breathtaking opening 'Circle of Life' sequence to the thrilling wildebeest stampede, every moment is a feast for the senses. Over 200 puppets represent 25 different animal species, operated by a cast who become one with their characters.
What songs are in The Lion King musical?
The acclaimed score features Elton John and Tim Rice's Oscar-winning songs from the animated film, including 'Circle of Life', 'I Just Can't Wait to Be King', 'Hakuna Matata', and 'Can You Feel the Love Tonight'. Additional music by Lebo M, Mark Mancina, and Hans Zimmer, plus original stage songs like 'Endless Night' and 'Shadowland', infuse the production with the rhythms and spirit of Africa.
Is The Lion King musical better than the film?
The stage production offers a completely different experience to both the animated classic and the CGI remake. Julie Taymor's theatrical vision transforms the story into a stunning visual spectacle that simply cannot be replicated on screen. Watching actors bring animals to life through ingenious puppetry, with the savannah materialising before your eyes, creates an emotional impact unique to live theatre.
What are the best seats for The Lion King?
For the full impact of the 'Circle of Life' opening - when animals process down the aisles - Stalls seats offer an immersive experience. The Dress Circle provides an excellent overview of Julie Taymor's stunning staging. The Lyceum Theatre is a relatively intimate venue, so most seats offer good views of the intricate puppetry.
Is The Lion King a good family musical?
The Lion King is one of the best family musicals in London's West End. Children are captivated by the stunning puppetry, colourful costumes, and beloved story. For other family-friendly options, consider Matilda The Musical or Paddington.
Cancellation policy: theatre tickets cannot be cancelled, exchanged, or refunded once purchased.
Performance schedule
Tuesday – Saturday Evenings: 7:30pm | Wednesday
Saturday and Sunday Matinees: 2:30pm
Ratings & Reviews
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Based on 10,289 verified audience ratings from official ticket partners.
Cast & Creatives
Who is in The Lion King London cast?
The current London cast features Hope Maine as Simba, Merryl Ansah as Nala, Shaun Escoffery as Mufasa, and George Asprey as Scar. They are joined by Thenjiwe Nofemele as Rafiki, Gary Jordan as Zazu, Alan McHale as Timon, and Pierre van Heerden as Pumbaa.
Who directed The Lion King musical?
The Lion King is directed by Julie Taymor, who also designed the stunning costumes and co-designed the masks and puppets with Michael Curry. The music and lyrics are by Elton John and Tim Rice, with additional music by Lebo M, Mark Mancina, and Hans Zimmer. The book is by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi, with choreography by Garth Fagan and scenic design by Richard Hudson.
What awards has The Lion King won?
The Lion King won six Tony Awards in 1998 including Best Musical, Best Direction of a Musical for Julie Taymor (the first woman to win this award), Best Scenic Design, Best Costume Design, Best Lighting Design, and Best Choreography. It also won eight Drama Desk Awards and the 1999 Olivier Awards for Best Theatre Choreographer and Best Costume Design. Globally, the production has won over 70 major theatre awards.
Frequently asked questions
What age is The Lion King suitable for?
The Lion King is recommended for children aged 6 and above. Children under the age of 3
including babies in arms
will not be admitted to the Lyceum Theatre . The show contains some intense scenes
including the wildebeest stampede and Mufasa's death
which younger children may find emotional.
How long is The Lion King musical?
The performance lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
including one 15-minute interval.
Does The Lion King have strobe lighting or loud noises?
Yes
The Lion King production features smoke and fog effects as well as strobe lighting during certain scenes
particularly the stampede. The show also features loud drums and musical moments that may startle very young children.
Can children sit alone at The Lion King?
No
all guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult and may not sit on their own within the auditorium at the Lyceum Theatre . All persons entering the theatre
regardless of age
must have their own ticket.
What happens if I arrive late to The Lion King?
We strongly recommend arriving early to experience the full magic of The Lion King. The 'Circle of Life' opening
when animals process through the auditorium
is one of theatre's most spectacular moments and cannot be experienced if you arrive late. Latecomers will be admitted at a suitable break
but this cannot be guaranteed.
Can I take photos during The Lion King?
Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited during the performance to protect the theatrical experience for all guests and the production's creative content.
Can I bring snacks into The Lion King?
Food and drinks purchased outside the venue are not permitted inside the theatre. Refreshments are available at the theatre bars. Booster seats are available for younger children.
How long is The Lion King with interval?
The Lion King runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
including one 15-minute interval.
Is The Lion King OK for a 4 year old?
The Lion King is recommended for ages 6 and above. Children under 3 (including babies in arms) are not permitted in the theatre. Some scenes
including Mufasa's death and the stampede
may be too intense for younger children.
Where is The Lion King playing in London?
The Lion King plays at the Lyceum Theatre
21 Wellington Street
London WC2E 7RQ. The nearest tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly line) and Charing Cross (Northern and Bakerloo lines).
What time does The Lion King start?
Evening performances are Tuesday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinee performances are on Wednesday
Saturday
and Sunday at 2:30pm.
Is The Lion King sad?
The Lion King includes emotional moments
particularly Mufasa's death
which may move audiences to tears. However
it is ultimately an uplifting story about courage
friendship
and finding your place in the world. The show ends on a joyful
triumphant note.
Venue
Lyceum Theatre
21 Wellington Street, WC2E 7RQ
Tube
Covent Garden, Leicester Square, Charing Cross
Train
Charing Cross
Bus
6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 77A, 91, 139, 176
Parking
NCP Drury Lane. Chinatown, Trafalgar (Q Park scheme)
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