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Disney’s stage version of the beloved classic ‘The Lion King’ is now showing in London’s West End. The show mixes singing, dancing with beautiful scenery and costumes to create a stunning production. Audiences will enjoy hearing familiar songs from the movie, as well as several new songs written specifically for the musical version. Altogether, the Lion King Musical provides wonderful entertainment for all age groups.

In the early 1990s, it seemed that the world of theatre was crashing and burning. With the expenses of putting on a musical theatre production skyrocketing, few people were willing to shell out for high priced theatre tickets when they could just as easily visit the movie theatre for a fraction of the price. Fortunately, Disney rescued the struggling Broadway scene, first with a stage version of Beauty in the Beast, and then a production of the Lion King. Today, this flashy modern musical can be seen at a variety of venues, including the Lyceum Theatre, located in London’s West End. Here are five reasons why you should attend this spectacular show.

1. Appealing to All Age Groups

Clearly, the Lion King is a hit with kids. But the rhythmic music and sophisticated plot makes it an entertaining show for adults as well. Young adults will enjoy relieving memories of the first time they saw the movie as children.

2. Award Winner

The Lion King has received a number of distinguished awards, including eleven Drama Desk awards and six Tony awards. It was also nominated for an additional five Tony awards. Any production that is the recipient of this many awards is clearly worth seeing.

3. New Songs

Everyone loves the songs from the movie version of the Lion King. Favorites such as ‘Be Prepared,’ ‘Circle of Life,’ ‘I Just Can’t Wait To Be King,’ and ‘Hakuna Matata,’ are featured in the West End stage production. But there are also several new songs that were composed for the musical version. These new songs include ‘Endless Night,’ ‘Shadowland,’ and ‘One By One.’

4. Beautiful Costumes

One might wonder how a musical production of the Lion King is able to portray animals such as giraffes and zebras while using humans as actors. This feat was achieved with the help of several excellent costume designers. It is fascinating to see the costumes, which are simultaneously intricate and simple. The amazing thing about these costumes is that they manage to convey human characteristics while retaining important animalistic elements. This anthropomorphic balance between animal and human helps keep the story believable.

5. Unique Scenery

There a number of complicated scenes in the Lion King that could not work without the use of sophisticated scenery and props. One such scene is the stampede, during which wildebeest props on rollers create an effective feeling of danger.

With great music, lovely costumes and unique scenery, the Lion King musical is one of the most entertaining shows in decades.

Author Bio: Find out more information about the Lion King Musical and buy tickets

The Lion King (2 Disc Special Edition) [1994] [DVD]

Be aware, you should ensure your DVD is in a proper Disney blue box - those in clear boxes are inferior seconds and should be avoided. If it doesn't say so in the listing notes, you should always contact the Amazon Marketplace seller to check.Disney's 1994 animated feature, The Lion King, was a huge smash in cinemas and continues to enjoy life in an acclaimed stage production. The story finds a lion cub, son of a king, sent into exile after his father is deposed by a jealous uncle. The little he

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There are several reasons to see Les Miserables in the West End of London. The long running phenomenal musical has packed theaters around the world for decades. Making the West End it home since 1985, the legions of fans for this exceptional stage performance musical are testament to the wonderful portrayal of the characters brought to life on such a deep and heartfelt level.

The story of Les Miserables is set in early 19th century France and is based on Victor Hugo’s 1862 entitled Les Miserables. The unique story of characters that strive against all odds for redemption is both endearing and engaging. Through the lives of student revolutionaries and factory workers the tale of Les Miserables unfolds before your very eyes.

The creation of Victor Hugo, Les Miserables continues to be one the most successful musicals the world has seen. Les Miserables first opened its doors on December 4, 1985 at the Palace Theatre. The Palace Theatre performances were the tip of the iceberg as just prior to the grand West End opening Les Miserables experienced a sell-out season at the Barbican in London.

Les Miserables has had some of the theatre industries talented actors bring to life the most heralding performances the theatre going crowd had ever seen. Newly confirmed performances are expected to feature one of the pop sensation Jonas Brothers bringing to the stage yet another resounding yet unparalleled element. Nick Jonas, 17, is scheduled to make his West End debut as Marius from June 21st.

Another excellent reason to go and see Les Miserables is the introduction of British singing sensation Susan Boyle. Boyle, 49, is in negotiation with the production bosses to take to the stage just in time for the musicals 25th anniversary performances. Boyle burst onto the international scene during her audition for ‘Britain’s Got Talent.’ Her haunting performance of ‘I Dreamed A Dream’ made her a household name overnight. Boyle is expected to take up the role of Fantine and perform her world famous version of ‘I Dreamed A Dream.’

Les Miserables enters into its 25th anniversary in the West End. The celebration of this great achievement makes this musical a must see and experience. The production celebrated the 21st anniversary in grand fashion in 2006. Queen’s Theatre has been the long standing venue for the world known musical production. The history of the musical encapsulated within the halls and corridors of this extraordinary theatre is legendary.

Lastly, the most predominate reason to go and see Miserables is so that you too can experience a bit of history and theatre magic. The Tony Award winning musical took top honors for its most famous song ‘I Dreamed A Dream.’ Through out the years ‘I Dreamed A Dream’ has resonated deeply with all who have had the opportunity to hear it. ‘I Dreamed A Dream’ has produced several cover versions since its 1985 debut. Some of the most famous artist cover recordings include Neil Diamond, Arethra Franklin, David Essex, Michael Crawford and Susan Boyle.

Author Bio: Find out more information and book tickets for Les Miserables

Les Miserables - 25th Anniversary [DVD]

Seen by over 57 million people worldwide in 42 countries and in 21 languages, Les Miserables is undisputedly one of the world’s most popular musicals. In celebration of 25 incredible years of the world’s longest running musical, Les Miserables marks this momentous occasion with a spectacular performance at The O2. With a host of over 500 actors and musicians, this star studded cast includes Alfie Boe as ‘Jean Valjean’, Nick Jonas as ‘Marius’, Norm Lewis as ‘Javert’, Matt Lucas as

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Chicago is considered by many to be one of the preeminent examples of musical theatre. The play tells a tale of violence and corruption in the Windy City and has won numerous international awards. As such, it is no wonder that this dark and vivacious production is still being shown in London’s cultural and fashionable West End.

Originally produced in the United States in 1975, Chicago remains to this day as one of the most famous and distinguished Broadway plays to date. It tells a the tale of a chorus girl Roxie and her increasingly-troublesome encounters with the city of Chicago’s penal system. Its gripping is only matched by the energetic musical performances peppered throughout the production. Each song is performed in a classic vaudevillian style, thought no two musical acts are completely similar. Indeed, each piece has its own character that not only attributes to the overarching storyline but also stands out with its dynamic lyrical style and accompanying choreography.

Chicago is an exuberant tale of crime and corruption whose plot is as enchanting as its soundtrack. The play has been showered with numerous accolades throughout its running history, including a sweep of the 1996 Tony Awards by winning in the categories of Best Lighting Design, Best Choreography, Best Direction of a Musical, Best Leading Actor and Actress in a Musical, and Best Revival of a Musical. The London Production won the awards for Best Actress in a Musical and Outstanding Musical Production at the 1997 Oliver Awards. The play has been reproduced in nearly every major country in the world, including but not limited to India, China, Russia, Germany, Japan, and the Netherlands.

Located in the heart of London, the West End is widely considered to be the entertainment center of the United Kingdom. Containing the largest shopping district in Europe, the West End caters to almost every taste with its eclectic mix of department stores and high-end boutiques. London’s West End is also home to numerous embassies, government institutions, art galleries, nightclubs, and perhaps most famously, theaters. Many of the world’s leading plays have either placed their foundations or hosted a spot in one of the West End’s historic theaters. Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, the longest running play in history, has been entertaining audiences for over fifty years and is currently showing at St. Martin’s Theatre. Other notable plays and musicals include The Phantom Of The Opera, We Will Rock You, Les Miserables, Mamma Mia, and Oliver.

Chicago has been continually performed in the West End for twelve years; the first nine were at the historic Adelphi Theatre though it has since moved to the Cambridge Theatre. It is ranked second in the list of the top ten musicals one must see while in London, and notable cast members have included David Hasselhoff, Jerry Springer, Brooke Shields, Ashlee Simpson, and Michelle Williams from the R&B group Destiny’s Child, who was the first African American woman to fill the shoes of Roxie in the West End.

Author Bio: Find out more information and book tickets for Chicago the Musical

Chicago [DVD] [2003]

Adapted from the long-running stage version, this big-screen Chicago is a non-stop singing and dancing extravaganza that may well herald the welcome revival of the film musical. When the part-time lover of wannabe star Roxie (Renee Zellweger) is murdered, she is banged up with Chicago's most famous singing murderess, Velma (Catherine Zeta-Jones). They compete for the attention of the best lawyer in town, Billy Flynn (Richard Gere). Drawn to the special angle of Roxie's case (the sweetest killer

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As well as being fun and frivolous, London musicals can also be educational, giving an insight into society through the ages. From historical London musicals like Les Mis?rables, to modern day adventures like Legally Blonde, a trip to the theatre will transport you to another time and place, exploring a range of themes and issues.

Les Miserables

Now in its 25th year, Les Miserables, London’s longest-running musical, tells one of the most historically significant stories in a London West End theatre. The musical is set in early 19th century France, with the opening scene taking place in 1815. Based on the epic novel by Victor Hugo, the complex plot is woven around the French revolution. This powerful tale follows the struggle of the characters in their dramatic search for love and redemption against the backdrop of civil war.

The Phantom of the Opera

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s much-loved London musical is based on Gaston Leroux’s novel about life beneath the stage of an Opera House in late 19th century Paris. The Phantom of the Opera is one of the most successful London musicals of all time, and is now in its 22nd year at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London’s West End. The story has recently been continued on stage in a sequel, Love Never Dies, which is set 10 years later.

Oliver!

Set in Victorian London, Oliver! is a heart-warming musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ tale of an orphan boy who has escaped from a workhouse. When he arrives in London, Oliver meets a colourful band of characters, including The Artful Dodger and Fagin, who take him under their wing. A lively score of much-loved sing-a-long tunes, including Food Glorious Food, Consider Yourself, and I’d Do Anything has made this show one of the most popular London musicals.

Jersey Boys

Follow the rags-to-riches story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, one of the biggest selling US pop bands of the 1960s, in the fantastic musical Jersey Boys.
This award-winning London musical includes some of the bands greatest hits including Oh, What A Night, and Big Girls Don’t Cry. The show charts their rise to success from blue-collar New Jersey boys to one of the biggest pop music sensations of all time.

Billy Elliot

Set against the backdrop of the UK miners’ strike in 1984-1985, Billy Elliot is an uplifting and inspirational London musical. Billy follows his dreams to dance, despite coming from an impoverished Northern mining town where boxing is far more acceptable than ballet. Based on the award-winning film of the same name, the musical first opened in London in 2005, and has since won four Laurence Olivier awards, including Best New Musical.

Legally Blonde

One of the latest musicals to hit London’s West End, Legally Blonde is set amongst the glitz and glamour of Californian campus life. Featuring Elle, a ditzy Homecoming Queen, the talented cast includes Sheridan Smith and Duncan James. This all singing, all dancing, feel-good show is based on the hit movie of the same name.

We Will Rock You

Set in a futuristic world where rock music has been banned, We Will Rock You is a vibrant musical that has proven itself one of London’s most popular shows. It has been enjoyed by audiences all over the world, and has sold almost 5 million tickets at London’s Dominion Theatre during its eight-year run. Created by Ben Elton and the remaining members of the rock group Queen, this smash-hit musical includes 32 of the band’s hits, including Bohemian Rhapsody and Radio Ga Ga.

Author Bio: Visit the Visit London site for more information about London Musicals

 

London musicals are world famous, with established productions enjoying long runs in London’s best theatres. From comedy and dance to mystery and drama, the choice of musicals in London is superb. Book today to see a London musical and experience the magic of London theatre

Les Miserables

As London’s longest running musical, Les Miserables is perhaps the most famous of all London musicals. Having enjoyed a hugely successful 25-year run, Les Mis continues to draw the crowds to London’s Queen’s Theatre. This epic tale of love and destruction features an incredible score and is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Billy Elliot the Musical

Prepare to tap your toes and stamp your feet along to one of the liveliest London musicals! Billy Elliot the Musical is a superb adaptation of Stephen Daldry’s hugely successful film. With music by Elton John, the show is as popular with London theatre goers today as it was when it first opened in 2005 at London’s Victoria Palace Theatre. This much-loved London musical has won a string of awards during its 5-year run, including Best New Musical.

Mamma Mia!

For one of the ultimate feel-good London musicals, take a trip down the aisle with Mamma Mia! Its 11-year run in London’s West End has seen audiences young and old dancing and singing along to Abba’s greatest hits. This musical extravaganza is currently playing at London’s Prince of Wales Theatre.

The Phantom of the Opera

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s must-see London musical The Phantom of the Opera has been enjoyed by millions worldwide since it first opened in London’s West End in 1986. Renewed interest in this timeless musical is now expected, as its much-anticipated sequel, Love Never Dies has recently opened at London’s Adelphi Theatre.

We Will Rock You

Prepare to rock out at Ben Elton’s fantastic musical, which is based on songs by legendary British band Queen. We Will Rock You is one of the most popular London musicals. It has also become the longest running musical at the Dominion Theatre, one of London’s largest theatre venues. As well as delighting London audiences, We Will Rock You has also enjoyed a successful UK tour.

The Lion King

A firm favourite with London audiences of all ages, The Lion King is a fantastic musical adaptation of the Disney classic. With amazing costumes and uplifting music by Elton John, this London musical’s not to be missed! The Lion King has remained at London’s Lyceum Theatre since its West End debut in 1999.

Chicago

Having been running for many years as one of the West End’s top musicals and with many infamous male and female leads, it’s no wonder that Chicago is still in demand. It features all the classics from All that Jazz, Cell Block Tango and Razzle Dazzle. Always glamorous and a must see

Dirty Dancing

Every girl’s favourite film made it to the theatre and has proven to be just as popular. The beauty of this performance is that despite the fact that the audience know the story so well, the joy of seeing it in the theatre is the liveliness and vigour to which the dances and songs are performed. Sing and clap along to (I’ve Had) The Time of My Life, Do You Love Me?, In the Still of the Night and Hey! Baby.

Author Bio: Click here for more information about London West End Musicals and to book tickets

Written by Chris Tomkins

 

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