Ensemble Watch: ‘The Lion King,’ Part 1
For 13 years, the on-stage spectacle of The Lion King has been flooring audience members, even bringing tears to the eyes of adults, and selling out performances (even to this day). From an ensemble that is as important as the show’s leads (if not more), Jean Michelle Grier and Ray Mercer discuss life in this uber-technical show in the latest Ensemble Watch. Both ensemble actors with featured roles (Grier plays Simba’s mother Sarabi; Mercer plays a giraffe), they have both been with the show for over five years. Here they discuss the euphoria of being cast in the mega hit, backstage life at the Minskoff, and fitness.
When was the last time you saw The Lion King, Rushers? Were you moved by its visuals? Do you find it interesting that this ensemble is arguably the prime aspect of this show? Leave your thoughts in the comments, and be sure to look for Part 2 next week.
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I only saw The Lion King in Toronto…I’ve actually never seen it on Broadway. I’m pretty sure that it is the same show, but I wonder if there are any big differences. (Maybe the lions don’t say “eh” in the US production?)
you should REALLY see it on Broadway. It’s fan-tast-ic; a very lively and soulful performance. I don’t know how it would be different in Toronto, however. I’m surprised *you* haven’t seen it here, Kym!
@Kym: Hahaha! “Oh I just can’t wait to be king, eh!” Good one!