English
English
4.7
Ana Manuela de Sá GuimarãesUnited Kingdom
The musical *The Lion King* in London is simply a breathtaking experience—the kind that stays with you long after the curtain falls.
From the very first moment, with the iconic opening “Circle of Life,” the show completely captivates the audience. The way the animals “come to life” on stage, through ingenious costumes and incredibly precise choreography, is absolutely mesmerizing. It’s not just theater—it’s visual art in motion.
The staging is one of the show’s greatest strengths: minimalist yet grand at the same time. Instead of relying on excessive technology, it relies on pure creativity, and that makes everything even more magical. Every detail, from the masks to the actors’ movements, is meticulously crafted, creating an almost spiritual feeling at certain moments.
The music, of course, is another highlight. The classic songs are performed with a renewed and powerful energy, and the live arrangements give them an even more thrilling dimension. There is a very strong connection with the audience, who allow themselves to be completely swept up in the story.
The performances are consistent and full of emotion. The most intimate moments stand out especially, where simplicity allows the narrative and emotions to shine without distractions.
Overall, it is a show that manages to balance visual spectacle, emotion, and narrative in an exemplary way. Even for those who know the story inside out, there is something new and surprising in this adaptation.
In short: a must-see production in London. Striking, elegant, and deeply memorable.
View original review in Portuguese
The Lion King
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DURATION
2 hr 30 min with interval
AGE LIMIT
Strictly for 3+ yrs
from
£43.75
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AboutVenueTicketsReviews
Why watch The Lion King?
- Disney’s landmark musical blends storytelling and spectacle, reimagining the hit 1994 film into a theatre experience with a cast and crew of over 150 people from 17 countries.
- Julie Taymor’s direction earned her the title of the first woman to win a Tony for Best Director of a Musical, and Garth Fagan’s choreography redefined what musical theatre can achieve.
- Elton John and Tim Rice’s Academy Award-winning songs, paired with Lebo M’s rich arrangements, make for one of the most memorable theatrical scores, which includes iconic numbers like “Hakuna Matata” and “Circle of Life”.
- Take a trip to the African Savannah, brought to life by more than 232 hand-crafted puppets, intricate masks, and evocative African-inspired costumes, that bring the Pride Lands to life.
- Running since 1999 at the Lyceum Theatre, it remains one of the West End’s longest-running and most in-demand shows. Book your tickets to The Lion King in London now!
The Lion King musical has been a cornerstone of London theatre since opening at the Lyceum Theatre in 1999. Adapted from Disney’s Oscar-winning animated classic, the show is directed by Julie Taymor, who became the first woman to win a Tony Award for Best Director of a Musical. With music by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice, and additional contributions by Lebo M and Mark Mancina, the score combines pop hits with African rhythms to create an unforgettable soundscape. This Olivier Award-winning production features striking design, from Taymor’s animal masks and puppetry to Richard Hudson’s vast set design. Cast highlights include George Asprey as Scar, Shaun Escoffery as Mufasa, and Owen Chaponda as Simba, alongside a talented ensemble of over 50 performers. With more than 110 million people worldwide having seen the show, The Lion King in London continues to draw audiences who want to experience a timeless story told with groundbreaking theatrical artistry.
Storyline
Under the blazing African sun, Simba, a young cub destined to be king, enjoys a carefree life with fellow vertebrates and a close bond with his father, the wise King Mufasa. But in the shadows lurks Scar, the king’s bitter and ambitious brother, who sees Simba as an obstacle to his royal fate. After orchestrating Mufasa’s untimely death and leading Simba to believe it was his doing, he begins his despotic reign over the Pride Lands. As the years pass, the royal prince comes into his own, far away from his rightful kingdom, only to be jolted back to reality by his childhood friend, Nala. Leading up to the climactic battle that can determine the fate of everyone he loves, will Simba be able to accept his legacy and all that came before?
Show timings
Show timings for The Lion King may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
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
The Lion King cast & creatives >
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
Top songs
Enjoy Elton John and Tim Rice’s timeless hits like “Circle of Life,” “Hakuna Matata,” and the Oscar-winning “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” With Lebo M’s soaring choral arrangements, Mark Mancina’s additional score, and Hans Zimmer’s original film themes, the music blends seamlessly with Julie Taymor’s vision to create an unforgettable live experience.
Age & content guide
- 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.
- Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Lyceum Theatre Read more
Lyceum Theatre, located just off the Strand on Wellington Street, dates back to 1765. Over the years, the venue has served many purposes, including hosting a circus, a chapel, an exhibition by Madame Tussauds, and many more. It even served as an English Opera House for a few years. Ever since 1999, it has been home to the world-renowned musical The Lion King.
The Lyceum Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting there
- Address: Lyceum Theatre, 21 Wellington Street, London
- Tube: The nearest tube stations are Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern Line) and Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line).
- Bus: RV1, X68, 1, 6, 11, 13, 23, 59, 68, 87, 168, 171, 172, 188, or 243 to Aldwych and 4, 9, 15, 26, 34, 76, 91, 139, or 176 to Strand.
Facilities & accessibility
Available facilities: Bars, restrooms, cloakroom, merchandise kiosks
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, accessible toilets, step-free entry, induction loops for hearing-impaired guests, companion seating, access hosts
Additional information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets redemption
- You’ll get an instant email confirmation right after you book your tickets.
- Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to the venue by showing your mobile ticket and a valid photo ID – no printout necessary!
Cancellation & refunds
- Tickets cannot be refunded, amended, or rescheduled.
Ratings & reviews
4.7
11,292 ratings
9.3K
1.5K
270
85
178
Ana
May 2026Verified booking
The musical *The Lion King* in London is simply a breathtaking experience—the kind that stays with you long after the curtain falls. From the very first moment, with the iconic opening “Circle of Life,” the show completely captivates the audience. The way the animals “come to life” on stage, through ingenious costumes and incredibly precise choreography, is absolutely mesmerizing. It’s not just theater—it’s visual art in motion. The staging is one of the show’s greatest strengths: minimalist yet grand at the same time. Instead of relying on excessive technology, it relies on pure creativity, and that makes everything even more magical. Every detail, from the masks to the actors’ movements, is meticulously crafted, creating an almost spiritual feeling at certain moments. The music, of course, is another highlight. The classic songs are performed with a renewed and powerful energy, and the live arrangements give them an even more thrilling dimension. There is a very strong connection with the audience, who allow themselves to be completely swept up in the story. The performances are consistent and full of emotion. The most intimate moments stand out especially, where simplicity allows the narrative and emotions to shine without distractions. Overall, it is a show that manages to balance visual spectacle, emotion, and narrative in an exemplary way. Even for those who know the story inside out, there is something new and surprising in this adaptation. In short: a must-see production in London. Striking, elegant, and deeply memorable.
View original review in Portuguese
Yvonne
May 2026Verified booking
The musical itself was fantastic! However, the experience was a bit disrupted by very young children (around 3–5 years old) seated next to me. They were quite restless, constantly standing up and sitting down, which made it difficult to stay fully focused on the show. The second half was better once they grew tired and nearly fell asleep. My advice would be to think carefully about bringing very young kids to an evening performance, as it can be challenging for them to sit through it.
Francisco
May 2026Verified booking
From the start everything was amazing and the performances were the best I've seen, I got to see musicals often and I was waiting to have the chance to see this one in London, maybe my favourite performance was the actress that plays Raffiki, what a marvellous surprise! The kids that were there with me talked about the changing stage and the great acting too. It's an amazing experience that we'll see again.
CASTEL
May 2026Verified booking
Great show with incredible costumes and sets: the moving stair, appearing and disappearring from the middle stage, the hyena heads movement, the rolling buffalo charge .... all the staging gives a wonderfull impression of savanna. The actress playing Rafiki has a splendid voice. And a special applause to the young actors playing young Nala and young Simba: they were amazing.
Ayatallah
May 2026Verified booking
I was mesmerized by everything! I was wondering how did you do the graphics and stage recorations and how there wasnt a single mistake in the performance. It is indeed better than the original disney cartoon. I would recommend it and go again hundreds of times.
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Frequently asked questions about The Lion King
How much do tickets for The Lion King in London cost?
The cost of tickets starts from £43.75 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
What age is the musical appropriate for?
The show does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children of 6 years and above. Children under 3 years of age will not be allowed and 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.
How long does the musical run for?
The running time is 2 hours and 30 minutes, including an interval.
Where is The Lion King playing in London?
The musical is playing at the Lyceum Theatre in London.
What is the musical about?
ion King brings Disney’s beloved film to the stage, where young Simba journeys through a life of hardship to become king of the jungle.
What are the popular songs in The Lion King?
The musical has a range of delightful songs from the original film, including hits from Elton John and Tim Rice including “Circle of Life,” “Hakuna Matata,” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” You can listen to The Lion King playlist here.
How is this different from the animated film?
While it follows the same story, the stage version includes new songs, expanded scenes, and Julie Taymor’s groundbreaking puppetry.
Are animals portrayed with live puppets?
Yes, over 232 hand-crafted puppets and masks bring the Pride Lands to life.
Does the show feature the same characters from the film?
All the beloved characters like Simba, Mufasa, Scar, Timon, and Pumbaa appear, along with expanded ensemble roles.
Has the show won any awards?
Yes, it has multiple Olivier awards including Best Costume Design and Best Choreography, as well as Tony awards for the Broadway version.
How long has the show been running in London?
It has been playing at the Lyceum Theatre since 1999, making it one of the West End’s longest-running musicals.