20th Anniversary of The Lion King on Broadway

On Sunday, November 5th, an invitation-only audience was treated to a performance at the Minskoff Theatre celebrating twenty years of The Lion King on Broadway and around the world.

Hosted by Thomas Schumacher, president of Disney Theatrical Productions, the event brought together the show’s original cast as well as all the production’s principal creatives, including Tony Award–winning director Julie Taymor, to witness once more a work of stunning visual theater and glorious song that none of them could have known would last so long or be seen by so many: ninety million people in nineteen countries on six continents and counting.

In a surprise appearance, Elton John capped the evening when he performed on the piano and sang the show’s signature piece, “Circle of Life,” with vocal backup from the cast’s ensemble.

To commemorate the moment, Welcome Enterprises produced The Lion King: Twenty Years on Broadway and Around the World, published by Disney Editions, written by Michael Lassell, and designed by the brothers Wakabayashi (Greg and Clark).

Featuring behind-the-scenes photos as well as gorgeous production shots from shows around the world, the book gives voice to the hundreds of people who have been involved with The Lion King, in one form or another, over the years: from director Julie Taymor, lyricist Tim Rice, vocal score and arranger Lebo M., and other creatives to the performers, production staff, and international company members who have brought this heartfelt theatrical spectacle to audiences the world over. They tell the story of what it’s been like to be part of The Lion King family—and theater history.

“There’s a life before and one after The Lion King for everyone who has been involved in this show. There’s a legend among the actors that says that whoever is blessed with being part of the show has a beautiful path ahead, full of good things waiting for them. That’s because the magic of the story—the essence of the show—remains in the hearts of all of us who are part of the beautiful world of The Lion King.
—Agustin Arguello, Simba, Mexico company

The Lion King Deluxe Edition Box and Book

In addition to the regular edition book, Welcome produced a limited-edition run of 500 deluxe books, numbered and signed by Thomas Schumacher, and featuring a special foil-stamped, cloth-covered three-piece case and book box printed in an evocative pattern from the costume of Sarabi.