The realisation of his father’s words to return home, to the score of Under the Stars is a maudlin moment of tender beauty which showcases the orchestra, Donald Holder’s lighting and Stephenson Arden-Sodje’s role as Adult Simba’s progression out of the darkness and the vast shadow cast by Scar.
Scorched with imagination, the evolution of Simba’s journey from innocence through depression and acceptance is intensified by Jean-Luc Guizonne’s powerful rendition of Mufasa. Blended with additional lyrics and score, stirring the foundations of the film’s setting to enrich the communal and African inspirations together with Taymor’s phenomenal direction and design, the production is elevated into a parade of palette and puppetry – from the aesthetic to the lighting, evoking an in-depth sensory thrill. The answer of how to adapt this for the stage, an animated film already taking loose elements of Shakespeare’s classics, lies in the book of Irene Mecchi and Roger Allers. Now with a more profound infusion of African tones, set to the hued orange dusk of the Savannah plains, is a playground for Julie Taymor’s puppetry which takes roots from cultural aspects of Africa, Europe, and Asia. And by the time Circle of Life has concluded, the magnificence of Elton John & Tim Rice’s original score has made its claim to this rightful place. There are significant moments in Theatrical history which define a show. With the break of dawn and the hauntingly familiar and beautiful notes of Thandazile Soni’s Rafiki, a sensory ripple erupts in the now silent audience. And for the fresh-faced cubs of the Savannah – how we envy your ability to see it for the first time.
So, for the veterans of the pride, the production is as compelling as ever.
Returning to Edinburgh after the pandemic cut the run short, The Pride Lands rolls into the city again at the Playhouse. And now, with records shattered, platinum soundtracks launched, and an extravagance of stage enchantment, there’s little else to add to the story which has inspired and conjured emotions for nearly thirty years. Director, Costume Design & Mask/Puppetry Co-Design: Julie Taymorĭespite the juggernaut of success with which we are familiar with, the cinematic and stage variations of Disney’s The Lion King were nothing if not tremendous gambles.
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