Today, the London production of THE LION KING welcomes 11 new cast members from all over the world, including #StageFaves Janique Charles, Gary Jordan and Dominique Planter who take over the principal roles of ‘Nala’, ‘Zazu’ and ‘Shenzi’ respectively. Now in its 18th year, over 14 million people have seen Disney’s award-winning musical at the Lyceum Theatre and we can't wait to see the new cast in action.
THE LION KING marks Janique Charles’ West End debut. Born and raised in Trinidad & Tobago, Janique moved to London to join the UK touring cast of THE LION KING in 2013. A rising star, she has travelled extensively and brings her experiences to her role as Nala. She joined the London production in May 2016 as part of the ensemble cast, but she now steps up to play the principal role of Nala.
Gary Jordan has performed in London’s West End in Grease (Victoria Palace), Anyone Can Whist le (Savoy) and in the UK tours of High Society and Playdays Live. Gary is also a pianist and musical director.
Dominique Planter has been a swing in the THE LION KING since 2016, this marks her West End debut in a principal role.
THE LION KING also welcomes new cast members from The Philippines, Malawi, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Brazil and the UK: Lila Anderson, Owen Chaponda, Deborah Dada, Debôrah Godchaser, Brian James Leys, Nathan Louis-Fernand, Nonhlanhla Makthathini, Rutendo Mushonga, Luciano Santos Souza and Karlene Wray.
They join a uniquely international company, which already includes performers from 11 countries around the world. The company is led by George Asprey as Scar, Shaun Escoffery as Mufasa, Brown Lindiwe Mkhize as Rafiki, Richard Frame as Timon, Keith Bookman as Pumbaa, Nick Afoa as Simba, David Blake as Banzai and Mack McGee as Ed.
Disney’s award-winning musical THE LION KING is now in its 18th triumphant year at London’s Lyceum Theatre. Since the UK premiere in London on Tuesday 19th October 1999, THE LION KING has entertained over 14 million theatregoers and remains the West End’s best-selling stage production. It is currently the sixth longest-running West End musical of all time. Tickets are currently on sale until 25th May 2018 for Groups.
