I grew up on musical theatre, I must have seen My Fair Lady and The Sound of Music at least 100 times. However, there is nothing more magical that seeing these plays live on Broadway. I had the opportunity this week to finally see the Lion King on Broadway, though I saw quite a few plays when I lived in NYC, for some strange reason this one wasn't on my list.
Thank God I was able to correct my mistake.
The Lion King was magical, the singing soul defying, the costumes and Pride Rock set were absolute works of art that moved in tandem with the actors. From the first note to the last, I was at the edge of my seats. I was proud of the cast of so many hues of brown, I thought of the endless hours of practice that must have gone into rehearsal and the commitment of sore muscles that must go into performing two shows daily. I thought of my time in Uganda. I thought about how beautiful my black is. I thought about the 12 high school students that were with me for this experience and countless times teared up throughout the show. The Lion King is not only a story of overcoming, but it is a story of the love of family. I was reminded of the biblical story of the prodigal son. It made me think about my decision to move back to the United States.
I have never been a huge fan of the Lion King cartoon, solely I think because of the trauma of Mufasa's death but the play reminded me of how moving the music of the movie was. I thought of the Circle of Life and how much my mom would love the play. It's her love of theatre that opened a whole new world to my brothers and I as children and a love that I am hoping to pass unto my family one day.
My one gripe was the three children behind me rustling and eating chips, some time after intermission, I finally turned around and let them have it. Afterall, I had just spent $200 on tickets and at times I couldn't hear myself think or feel the music. Needless to say a few stren words and I was able to enjoy the remainder of the show in piece. I continue to be exasperated that parents would give their children potato chips during a very expensive theatre experience.
My gripe aside, if you can only afford to go see on show on Broadway, make this your number one choice.
P.S. Alcoholic drinks at the theatre cost $17 but you get to keep your souvenir cups
P.S.S. Souvenirs from the show are affordable, as Broadway souvenirs go. I suggest you arrive at 6:30 when the doors open and get them before the show begins.