Disney’s The Lion King is headed to the Middle East

The award-winning musical will debut in Abu Dhabi this November.

25 years after Disney’s The Lion King premiered on Broadway, news of its debut in the Middle East is finally here – and the countdown has begun. We’re told that the beloved, award-winning musical is set for a four-week run in Abu Dhabi from 16 November to 10 December at Etihad Arena on Yas Island. Incidentally, the musical has already entertained nearly 110 million people worldwide since its 1997 debut, with permanent residences in New York, London, Madrid and Tokyo. It has enjoyed further international touring success in New Zealand, Australia, South Korea and beyond. 

Brought to the UAE by Spain-based promoter Proactiv in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral, the long-running adaptation of Disney’s popular 1994 animated film is a coming-of-age tale of a young lion prince forced to mature quickly when his father dies and an avaricious uncle attempts to claim the young prince’s birthright. Winner of more than 70 global theatrical awards – including six Tony awards, a Grammy for Best Musical Show Album, and Laurence Olivier Awards for Best Choreography and Costume Design – the show will run on weekdays and weekends with two performances per day on Saturdays and Sundays. Etihad Arena will be specially configured into an intimate setting to ensure a theatre-like experience. 

The show in Abu Dhabi represents a historic stop for the highest-grossing Broadway production of all-time. “Director Julie Taymor and her extraordinary creative team first brought The Lion King to the stage in a stunning production 25 years ago, and this production brings that vision to thrilling life at every performance,” said Thomas Schumacher, President & Producer of Disney Theatrical Productions. “It’s a joy to bring The Lion King to the Middle East for the first time in the show’s history. We cannot wait for you to join us in Abu Dhabi.”

Ticket prices start from AED 200 on weekdays, and AED 250 on weekends, and will be sold exclusively through Platinumlist and Etihad Arena’s website. Royal and VIP tickets, meanwhile, will be available on the floor in order to offer the best view and most intimate experience. Nicolas Renna, Managing Director at Proactiv Entertainment, a leading producer, and promoter of large-scale events, said: “It doesn’t get any bigger in the world of theatre than The Lion King, a global hit that transcends audiences and demographics. So, to be able to bring it to the Middle East for the first time, here in Abu Dhabi, is extremely exciting. Fans are in for a real treat.”

GO: Visit www.thelionking.ae for more information.