The Lion King ( Milwaukee) reviewed by Amy Menzel

*****If you were anywhere near the Marcus Performing Arts Center in Milwaukee, you could feel the love last night. The Lion King opened to a packed house, eager to take in the latest production of the Broadway at the Marcus Center series. The world’s #1 musical did not disappoint. Although I loved it all, I especially loved Buyi Zama’s portrayal of Rafiki and the energy Chance Smith brought to the stage as Young Simba. (Smith showed he had energy to spare while getting a standing ovation during the curtain call.)

I really think the best art happens when creatives ask, “What if…” As in, What if we did a stage production of Disney’s The Lion King? I can only imagine the conversations that led to the creation of this production…

What if we used puppetry?

The puppetry brings the animated classic to life on stage and helps to portray the diverse wildlife of the Serengeti. Of course, it also requires incredibly talented cast members. While I was in awe of the abilities of the actors playing Zazu (a red-billed hornbird), Timon (a meerkat), and Pumba (a warthog), I was most amazed by the parts of Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed (hyenas). With giraffes and gazelles and cheetahs and more (lions!), audience members have plenty to pick from in terms of favorite puppets, masks, costumes, and characters.

What if movement wasn’t just in the choreography, but part of the costuming? What if movement was an integral part of the set design?

These visionaries don’t stop. A more fashion-forward reviewer might be able to identify the types of materials used to create the gorgeous costumes that added so much movement and visual appeal. I just know it works. Likewise, the set design, along with the lighting, is used to enhance every scene, but no scene more awe-inspiring than the fourth of the second act. I didn’t want “Endless Night” to end.

What if, in addition to the music by Elton John and Tim Rice, Lebo M., Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Julie Taymor, and Hans Zimmer contributed music and lyrics?

Magic.

What if we featured two of the percussionists prominently on each side of the stage?

This is the third time I’ve seen this show, but I didn’t remember the percussionists playing on the sides like this in the previous productions. It’s likely that I was too busy trying to take in all the other aspects of the experience. When I took my seat near the front last night, the two percussion pits on either side of the stage were the first thing I noticed. I loved it — even if watching these musicians did distract me from the production onstage during “Be Prepared.”

What if we brought the performers into the house?

Few productions immerse an audience like The Lion King. This is especially true if you’re seated in the orchestra section since performers are in the house at times. Performers also appear in the loge section, however, and given all there is to take in, I found myself wondering about the view from the balcony. I can’t imagine there’s a seat in the house in which you don’t feel you’re part of it all. And it’s all amazing.

So, now you might be asking, What if I go see this show?

You will get to experience what over 100 million people across the world have through the 25 global productions since 1997. This is one of the rare times that I encourage people to give into their fear of missing out. And, if you’ve got kids, you know kids, and you love kids, take them. The show begins with a special welcome to those attending their first Broadway show, with the wish that the experience will be the start of their love for theater. I can’t imagine how many theater-lovers were born last night. It’s wonderful to witness so many children in awe of the arts.

What if you don’t go see this show?

You’ll regret it.

★★★★★

The Lion King plays at Uihlein Hall at the Marcus Performing Arts Center (Milwaukee) located at 929 N. Water Street and runs through March 1.

Tuesday-Thursday   7:30 p.m.

Fridays  8 p.m.

Saturday 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Sunday 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

The Lion King runs 2 hours and 30 minutes with a 15-minute intermission.

Tickets can be purchased at MarcusCenter.org or Ticketmaster.com or by calling 414-273-7206 or visiting the Marcus Center Box Office at 929 North Water Street, Milwaukee.

Tickets range from $66 in the loge  but there are other selections and prices available.

“STUDENT RUSH” is available for The Lion King. Students can get tickets for only $25 with their student IDs starting 2 hours prior to each performance. Lucky Seat is also available for The Lion King. More information on both options can be found at MarcusCenter.org.

Photos by Deen VanMeer