The Lion King musical, London West End – Review

If I could sum up our visit to see The Lion King musical in London’s West End it would be ‘Hakuna Matata!’ without a doubt. Even though it was a school night (opps), the whole experience was SO laid back, easy going, magical and just such a pleasure to take in. It was one of those musicals that you come out of smiling, with feet tapping and sunshine faces beaming all the way back home. #winning

Booking tickets for The Lion King musical

So, this is the bit that mums and dads cringe at. Simply put, London West End theatre tickets are  expensive these days. Especially, when you have more than one child *gulp! But, don’t let that throw you. We booked our tickets via an APP called TodayTix. They run promotions over the year, and we happened to luck out with the extended ‘Get into London’ promotion. This meant that our tickets cost £41.00 each (just under half price). We could have gone cheaper, but we had our hearts set on seats in the stalls, close to the front. Definitely take a look before booking at full price, and be prepared to wait it out to make the most of promotions! 

Top tip: Availability (including for lower priced tickets) seem to be more abundant earlier in the week i.e. especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 

Websites to try for good ticket deals

https://www.todaytix.com

https://www.disneytickets.co.uk/disney-day-seats-tickets

https://officiallondontheatre.com/tkts/

Where to sit?

I’ve been to see The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre before, and each time I’ve sat in the Royal Circle (the middle floor). It gives you a brilliant view of the whole stage and the illusion of the characters being extremely life-like. From experience, this is perfect for the littles and especially good if you haven’t seen the show before as you don’t miss a thing. 

However, this time we sat in the stalls at the very front in Row A (seats 15, 16 and 17). Wow!!!!! Mind blown!!!!

We wouldn’t usually opt for seats here but I’m so glad that we did. We could see the whole stage (but not the floor), and everyone up close, as in really close! I wish The Lion King would opt to allow photos and filming in the closing number (like Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella and also SIX) so I could have shown you the view! It felt like the characters were singing to you at times, and Little Button got loads of cheeky smiles from the actors. The only thing I’d say is that leg room isn’t ample here. We are pretty short, so it didn’t bother us. However, I’d imagine if you were 5’8 upwards, it could be a touch uncomfortable over time. 

Top tip: If you manage to book seats in the stalls, sit your little one in the aisle seat. Characters walk down both aisles in the stalls area and it’s such a magical experience! *Free comfy booster cushions were available to borrow for children, however, Little Button had a clear view from our seats, so she didn’t want to use her one. 

The Lion King musical – review

Have you seen Disney’s The Lion King movie? It follows the same storyline, as we watch Simba go from Lion cub to grown up, and then despite the odds, taking his rightful place as king of pride rock. It is absolutely bursting with memorable songs, mesmerising dances and so many funny moments that will have you giggling in your seat. 

The show opens with ‘The Circle of Life’ number, which sets the whole exciting and magical tone of the musical. And, introduces you to all the main characters. There is such a clever use of masks and puppetry throughout the whole show. It really is a feast for the eyes. 

Photo credit: The Lion King musical

Our favourite numbers included The Circle of Life, I Just Can’t Wait to be King (with young Simba and Nala), Hakuna Matata, He Lives in You (I may have needed a tissue during this song) and chow down (with the amazing hyenas). Really, we could just list them all, but these were super stand out moments, with breathtaking staging. 

Photo credit: The Lion King musical

The recommended age rating is 6 years and upwards. There were a few dark moments, which could be a bit scary for younger children. But, on the whole it’s upbeat, comical and has an energy that keeps you on your toes and wanting more.

The show ran for 2 hours and 30 mins with an interval, but we blinked and it was over far too soon! 

We would 100% recommend a trip to The Lion King musical in London’s West End! We might even see you there, as it’s back on the list for seeing again. 

What’s the last musical you have seen?

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