The Lion King

Tuesday, 22 July 2008 - Sunday, 1 April 2012

Lyceum Theatre, 21 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 7RQ

How Much: £70.00 (Highest Price) , £30.00 (Lowest Price)

Justifiable winner of more awards than the average mantle piece could handle, the Lion King is a sensory explosion paralleled by none. The music was written by two figures so highly respected in the production of West End musicals that the Queen decided to make them knights of the realm. Sir Elton John and Sir Tim Rice's score, bolstered by South African artist Lebo M was burnt into the national consciousness after the release of the 1994 Disney movie; to experience it live is nothing short of electrifying.

The performers are characterised by beautifully designed masks and puppets, which give the show real touch of magic. At no point in the performance is ones suspension of disbelief challenged. The marvellous Rafiki holds you firm with her baboon grip, Mufasa has the majesty of a true king and everyone's favourite comedy duo, Pumbaa the warthog and meerkat Timon are more than worthy accomplices for our hero Simba. The only criticism would fall onRepeat resident nasty Uncle Scar's head, whose overt campness makes Julian Clarey look like Freddy Kruger.

Gripes aside, the production is outstanding, with all the emotional warmth of the original movie. The sheer power of the piece more than justifies its popularity over the eight years it has run. It will be a sad day indeed when this innovative piece of theatre leaves our great city.