The Lion King

Know before you go

Show details

Categories: Musical, Disney, Kids, Olivier winner, Fantasy, Classic

Audience: Strictly for 3+

Theater name: Lyceum Theatre

Find the best seats in the house with the Lyceum Theatre seating plan

Theater facilities: Bars, restrooms, cloakroom, merchandise kiosks

Theater accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, accessible toilets, step-free entry, induction loops for hearing-impaired guests, companion seating, access hosts

Dress code: Smart casual

Cast & crew

• Leading roles: George Asprey as Scar, Shaun Escoffery as Mufasa, Thenjiwe Thendiva Nofemele as Rafiki, Gary Jordan as Zazu, Alan McHale as Timon, Mark Roper as Pumbaa, Owen Chaponda as Simba and Merryl Ansah as Nala

• Direction: Julie Taymor

• Adaptation: Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi

• Music: Elton John

• Lyrics: Tim Rice

• Additional music & lyrics: Lebo M and Mark Mancina

• Costume design, mask & puppet co-design, additional lyrics: Julie Taymor

• Choreographer: Garth Fagan

• Set design: Richard Hudson

• Lighting design: Donald Holder

• Sound design: Steve Canyon Kennedy

Additional info

• This show is recommended for ages 6 years and above. Children aged under 3 years will not be admitted to this show.

• All guests that are 16 years and under need to be accompanied by an adult and may not sit on their own in the auditorium.

• Content warning: The production contains smoke and fog effects as well as strobe lighting.

• Keep in mind, most theaters are air-conditioned throughout the year and can get a bit chilly. Bring along a light jacket if needed.

Frequently asked questions about The Lion King

Q: How much do The Lion King London tickets cost?

A: Prices may change based on your choice of seats and show dates.

Q: Where is The Lion King playing in London?

A: The show is playing at the Lyceum Theatre in London’s West End.

Q: How long does the performance run?

A: The show lasts for about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one interval.

Q: What’s the story about?

A: The Lion King follows Simba, a young lion prince, on his journey from exile to reclaiming his rightful place as king, while navigating betrayal, loss, and the circle of life.

Q: Is the show suitable for children?

A: There’s no strict age limit, but it’s generally recommended for ages 6 years and above. Children aged under 3 years will not be admitted to this show and all guests that are 16 years and under need to be accompanied by an adult and may not sit on their own in the auditorium. The production contains smoke and fog effects as well as strobe lighting.

Q: Are there any popular songs in the musical?

A: Yes, the musical features an iconic score by Elton John and Tim Rice which includes songs like “Circle of Life,” “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” and “Hakuna Matata.” You can listen to the album here.

Q: Has the show won any awards?

A: Yes, The Lion King has won multiple prestigious awards, including Tony awards for Best Musical and Best Direction and Laurence Olivier awards for Best Costume Design and Best Choreography.

Q: How long has The Lion King been running in London?

A: The musical opened in the West End in 1999 and has been performing continuously since, making it a legendary classic with a record-breaking run.

Q: What makes this production unique?

A: Julie Taymor’s innovative use of puppetry, masks, and choreography brings the animals and African savannah vividly to life, creating a visually stunning spectacle unlike any other.