Students to View ‘The Lion King’ Theatrical Production on Tour in Providence

By: Kaitlyn Boisvert
Posted In: News

“Nants ingonyama, bagithi baba!”, or “There Comes a Lion!” go the opening lyrics to “The Lion King,” a musical that first swept the world off its feet when it was released as a Disney film in 1994. “The Lion King” was a milestone film for Disney, and would forever influence and change cinema history. Although a children’s movie, it is considered a classic by many with its poignant story, heart-breaking themes and lovable characters.

Shortly after the film’s release, a theatrical version of the movie was produced and performed on the Broadway stage. The stage version of the story received just as much praise as the film. It was cited as a great spectacle that deserved to be known as one of the greatest shows Broadway ever produced. It has earned the love from multiple audiences with its superb music, intricately crafted stage design and especially for its festive and vibrant costumes. With such exquisite elements, it definitely has the great potential to offer audiences with a valuable experience that they will never forget.

On Feb. 13, the Campus Activities Board (CAB) is sponsoring an exciting trip to the Providence Performing Arts Center to see the production of “The Lion King” onstage. Students were so excited for the trip that on the day tickets were sold, approximately 15 students reported to the basement of Wakehurst a full hour early before the Office of Student Activities was to open. The students spent this time waiting patiently and buzzing with excitement upon the plan of attending the production. When the office finally opened, students flocked to purchase their tickets, and gathered in a line that extended throughout the entirety of the Wakehurst lounge. It was not too long before all tickets had been sold out.

CAB works diligently to select trips where students will have a lot of fun and enjoy their experience as being college students. “Lion King is so popular, and it gets amazing reviews, so we thought it would be a good choice,” said Jennifer Doll, a senior.”And plus, it’s in Providence.”

“The Lion King” is sure to be an experience that students will enjoy, cherish and will no doubt mark another success for CAB. Emily Comtois, a sophomore and a longtime fan of “The Lion King,” is one of the students going on the trip. “I loved ‘The Lion King’ as a kid,” she said. “Still do. It owns my soul, and I am very excited to see how it is translated to the stage. It is going to be such a great show.”

Any students who are disappointed because they were unable to attend this trip need not be sad for long. CAB has more trips lined up. On Feb. 26, CAB is sponsoring a trip to the Mystic Aquarium, and following that is a day trip to Boston on March 26 and a trip to the Boston Bruins game on April 2.