The Fox Presents: The Lion King
Mikayla Roberts
Mikayla Roberts
From January 10th to the 28th, the Fox Theatre hosted the world’s number one musical: The Lion King. The Disney classic is the story of a young lion prince (Simba) growing up in the Pride Lands of the Savannah. Facing unfortunate heartache, Simba flees the Pride Lands to live a carefree life with his two new companions Pumba and Ti Moune. Simba’s uncle Scar and his army of laughing hyenas manipulate their way to the top and rule over the Pride Lands. Simba, after facing self-affliction, decides to return to his kingdom and battle Scar for the right to be king.
This story has won many awards, including an Academy and Tony Award, and is raved over by critiques, so it was no surprise to hear such good reviews from the students of Hillgrove. Phoenix Lofton, a junior, witnessed the performance and says that, “Actually my parents kind of made me go, but I actually really liked it. I liked the way they portrayed the African theme on stage, the actor that played Mufasa was really good, and the little boy that played the younger Simba was so adorable. I truly think the performers connected with the audience. Everyone loved it and it, overall, just made for a better show. It was a really good experience, I’m glad I went.” Another junior, Faith Sills says, “It was amazing how they transformed the movie into a real-life musical. I can’t think of one part that needed to be better; I believe they captured everything. They captured and held my attention throughout the whole performance which made it much more enjoyable. I would’ve definitely suggested to everyone.”
Musically: the show exemplified the many different sounds and rhythms of the African culture throughout every song, whether they were upbeat and catchy or slow and soulful. Phoenix exclaimed, “I really liked all of them but my favorite was “They Live In You” with Mufasa and Simba singing! It was so good!” Former Hillgrove student, Jordan Adams shared, “ I’m going to have to say “Circle Of Life” as my favorite because it’s so beautiful: the different colors and animals coming together in such an amazing scene.”
The showing of The Lion King, overall, was amazing; from the staging and lighting to the choreography and crowd interaction. The Fox will continue to host critically acclaimed shows throughout the season, with their next one being the 20th anniversary tour of Rent starting February 20th.
This story has won many awards, including an Academy and Tony Award, and is raved over by critiques, so it was no surprise to hear such good reviews from the students of Hillgrove. Phoenix Lofton, a junior, witnessed the performance and says that, “Actually my parents kind of made me go, but I actually really liked it. I liked the way they portrayed the African theme on stage, the actor that played Mufasa was really good, and the little boy that played the younger Simba was so adorable. I truly think the performers connected with the audience. Everyone loved it and it, overall, just made for a better show. It was a really good experience, I’m glad I went.” Another junior, Faith Sills says, “It was amazing how they transformed the movie into a real-life musical. I can’t think of one part that needed to be better; I believe they captured everything. They captured and held my attention throughout the whole performance which made it much more enjoyable. I would’ve definitely suggested to everyone.”
Musically: the show exemplified the many different sounds and rhythms of the African culture throughout every song, whether they were upbeat and catchy or slow and soulful. Phoenix exclaimed, “I really liked all of them but my favorite was “They Live In You” with Mufasa and Simba singing! It was so good!” Former Hillgrove student, Jordan Adams shared, “ I’m going to have to say “Circle Of Life” as my favorite because it’s so beautiful: the different colors and animals coming together in such an amazing scene.”
The showing of The Lion King, overall, was amazing; from the staging and lighting to the choreography and crowd interaction. The Fox will continue to host critically acclaimed shows throughout the season, with their next one being the 20th anniversary tour of Rent starting February 20th.