“The Lion King” has tastefully been brought to stage in the theatrical recreation of the widely respected film. Although most of the audience could already mimic the lines and knew all the words to the songs, Julie Taylor (director) was able to make the musical a new and exhilarating experience. The archetype of the difficulties of growing up and self acceptance were reserved but the play did twist the plot ever so slightly to make it its own. A new side story concerning Scar and Nala arises, captivating songs are introduced and the male baboon Rafiki is now an all knowing female intellect.
These minute yet noticeable modifications make the play captivating and worthwhile. The acting in the musical seemed effortless and natural. The actors had obviously been well acquainted with their characters and felt comfortable in their roles. The characters of young Simba (Isaiah Grant) and Nala (Miranda De La Cruz) were well casted.
Both actors demonstrated confidence and were tremendously joyful to watch. They brought an air of carelessness and merriment to the stage which was evident in their juvenile yet booming voices right down to their cub costumes. Although young Simba was so well casted I do not believe that the older Simba was portrayed as wonderfully. The older Simba played by Michael Blake did the part justice yet he did not seem to have that certain dominance that most of the other actors possessed. The antagonist, Scar, played by Richard Clarkin, was so well in character that audience members felt revulsion and dishonor when he strayed onstage. His raspy and distinguishing voice suited the character fabulously.
The Essay on Cats Play Actors Dancing
The musical "Cats" is an outstanding show that captivates audiences of all ages. It is based on a book of poems called, "Old Possum's Book Of Practical Cats", written by T. S. Eliot. "Cats" tells a nonsense story of different cats. The amazing music, unique costumes, and intricate dance choreography bring a breath-taking story to life that a leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. T. S. Eliot's ...
Clarkin delivered his lines with grace which made his deviant personality come to life. Horace V. Rogers’ performance as Mufasa demanded attention. Rogers’ commanding gestures and arrogance added to the commanding character. Although Rogers’ interpretation of Mufasa was played well, Mufasa did not seem to be as important in the musical and he did in the movie. This is because he did not seem as loving and he didn’t seem like an extremely significant figure to young Simba.
Pum baa, played by Mark Terene and Timon, played by Bill Perry were both wonderfully characterized. The two seemed inseparable and came off as wonderfully charming. Terene and Perry’s delivery of lines were magnificent and because of this they received many laughs. Perry’s accent definitely added to the character and was greatly enjoyed. Tshi di Manye’s portrayal of Rafiki was by far the most captivating aspect of many scenes. Her booming voice projected clearly throughout the house and she managed to hold attention even in her mindless ramblings which were laugh out loud funny.
The most enthralling component of the musical “The Lion King” would have to be the costumes. The headpieces were fashioned so well that they became part of the actors’ bodies. The African prints of the costumes reminded audience members of the setting and brought a feeling tradition and folklore to the stage. There were several diverse animals that were portrayed in this musical and each required its own ingenious costume.
The most eye- catching of all the costumes would have been the intricate giraffes and the immense elephant. The colourful costumes and vibrant lighting kept the stage lively and the music reserved your attention. Many of the songs were from the original movie written by Elton John and Tim Rice but there were also five new scores which were performed during the musical. “He Lives In You”, one of the additional pieces added to the show, was exceptional. The song was rhythmically interesting and it also had wonderful words that I recite to this day. The set was also well constructed.
It was versatile and allowed many significant changes in the scenery. One of the most momentous scenes which greatly depended on the set was the stampede scene. This set was not only interesting to watch, it was also interesting to fathom how it was created so flawlessly. Although the entire musical was well developed there was one feature which stood out the most. This outstanding element was the choreography.
The Essay on The Crucible – Comparing Play and Movie
Arthur Miller's play, The Crucible, and the movie with the same name have many differences and similarities, all of which contribute to the individual effectiveness of each in conveying their central message.There are several additions and variances in the movie. First of all, the scene where the children and Tituba are dancing in the forest is never seen in the forest; we simply learn of it from ...
There were tribal like dances, ballet inspired movements and many other captivating rhythmical arrangements. Each dance was appealing in its own way and were so well put together that they did not get tedious, like most other dances do. As audience members we must also take into account the intricate costumes and how difficult it must have been to choreograph certain scenes with the different species of animals and their different personalities. Overall, the musical “The Lion King” was admirably and skillfully put together. Not only were the children ecstatic at the end results but the adults also found the musical memorable.
Like the movie, this play is entertaining enough to watch numerous times over.
