The Lion King is one of the most iconic musicals in London’s West End, and after watching it once again, it’s safe to say it never fails to impress. This incredible Disney production is packed with breathtaking music, stunning costumes, and mesmerising puppetry, making it a must-see for theatre lovers of all ages. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, The Lion King is an unforgettable experience—a true spectacle of talent, creativity, and storytelling.
A Stunning Production with Powerful Representation
One of the standout aspects of The Lion King musical is its predominantly Black cast, something that isn’t always seen in theatre. The representation on stage is fantastic, making it an emotional and inspiring experience, especially for those who may not have seen themselves reflected in major productions before. For families, this is particularly special—seeing diverse talent shine in such an iconic production is a meaningful and important part of the theatre experience.
There was a time in history when Black performers weren’t even allowed on stage, regardless of talent. To see a show like The Lion King thrive, with a cast that is so rich in diversity and excellence, is a testament to how far theatre has come. It’s a reminder of how important inclusion and representation are—not just for today’s audience, but for the generations to come.
The Costumes & Puppetry Are Simply Incredible
One of the most impressive elements of The Lion King West End show is its creative use of costumes and puppetry. The way the actors embody the characters—from the regal Mufasa to the sinister Scar—is nothing short of genius.
The headpieces worn by Mufasa and Scar are particularly striking. When the actors move, these elaborate headpieces shift, sometimes covering parts of their faces, creating an effect that blends human and animal seamlessly. It’s a brilliant visual technique that makes the characters feel even more lifelike and dynamic.
The puppetry is phenomenal, bringing the African savanna to life right before your eyes. Performers operate life-sized giraffes on stilts, manipulate graceful elephants, and bring the hyenas to life with intricate movements. Every detail has been carefully crafted to create a visually stunning experience.
Set Design That Transports You to the Pride Lands
The set design in this production is nothing short of spectacular. The way Pride Rock rises and falls on stage is breathtaking, seamlessly moving as the story unfolds. The Elephant Graveyard scene is especially eerie, with a beautifully crafted set that adds to the intensity of the moment. Every element of the stage design is thoughtfully created to fully immerse the audience in the world of The Lion King.
Rafiki: The Show-Stealer
One of the standout characters in this production is Rafiki. While Rafiki is played by a male character in the original Disney movie, in the West End musical, Rafiki is portrayed as a woman, and it works beautifully! Her powerful voice, comedic timing, and captivating stage presence make her one of the most memorable performances in the entire show. From her energetic opening of “The Circle of Life” to her humorous interactions, she truly steals the show.
Is The Lion King Worth the Ticket Price?
Tickets for The Lion King in London start from £34 per person when booked through the Disney Tickets website. While prices can be on the higher side, there is a way to get a great deal! Every Monday at 12PM, Disney offers Magical Monday tickets for just £29.50. These discounted seats are available for that week’s performances, but they sell out quickly, so it’s worth setting a reminder! Although some may find the ticket prices expensive, the sheer amount of effort, talent, and production value that goes into the show makes it worth every penny.
For example, during my performance, the actress playing Nala unexpectedly fainted on stage. Within just 30 minutes, an understudy stepped in seamlessly, delivering an equally powerful performance. The professionalism and dedication of the cast and crew were truly remarkable.
Best Seats for Watching The Lion King in London
This time, we sat in the Royal Circle Row G, seats 36-39, which offered a fantastic view of the stage. In previous visits, we’ve also sat in the Stalls and even the Front Row, and both experiences were incredible. If you’re visiting with kids, free booster seats are available, so be sure to ask before getting comfortable.
Essential Information Before You Go
📍 Theatre: Lyceum Theatre, London
⏳ Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (including a 15-minute interval)
🎟️ Recommended Age: Suitable for ages 6 and up (children under 3 are not permitted)
🚇 Nearest Stations: Embankment, Charing Cross, Temple
If you’re planning a family-friendly theatre trip in London, The Lion King is one of the best shows to see.
Final Thoughts: A Must-See West End Musical
This wasn’t our first time watching The Lion King, and it certainly won’t be our last. The incredible performances, breathtaking visuals, and unforgettable music make it one of the best musicals in London. We’re already looking forward to our next theatre trip—and with Hercules set to open in the West End this year, it looks like Disney magic will continue to shine in London!
Looking for tickets? You can book through the Disney Tickets website.
