Our final performances for The Lion King Jr are coming up this weekend! Audiences can’t get enough of our take on the animated classic. Today I am bringing you my final dramaturgy blog post about The Lion King, so, whether you have already seen our show or you are getting ready to see it this weekend, read on!
Since The Lion King is set in Africa, there are many African elements in the show, represented in set design, movement, rhythms, and lyrics. In our recent technical theatre spotlight video our Technical Director, Kristen Jepperson, discussed how the design of Pride Rock is based on a Zulu hat. She also highlighted one of the student crew members, Janiyah, who researched other African art elements that were incorporated into the final design. Be sure to check out if you haven’t already!
In the lyrics and spoken lines throughout the show, there are 6 indigenous African languages used: Swahili, Zulu, Xhosa, Sotho, Tswana, and Congolese. For instance, “hakuna matata” is a Swahili phrase that translates to “no trouble.” The cast worked with the directing team to properly learn the African words and phrases they use on stage to give honor and respect to the native speakers of those languages.
As our production of The Lion King Jr comes to a close, we also look forward to the rest of our Season of Courage! Tickets are available now for Jingle Bell Jam: Celebrating the Holidays, with shows running December 6-15th at Gunston Theatre Two. With heartwarming holiday scenes and songs, Encore’s Jingle Bell Jam is the perfect way to deck the halls and bring in the holiday spirit!
Photo 1 provided by Parker Nelson. Photos 2 & 3 by Cindy Kane Photography.