The Wilton Children’s Theater (WCT) is ready to take you on a Saharan adventure with its performance of Disney’s The Lion King Jr., running this weekend, Nov. 22-24, at Middlebrook School in Wilton. Prepare to be delighted by amazing costumes, singing, and dancing from a cast of 55 talented young actors ranging from 4th-8th grade. This well known and much loved theatrical performance is based on the Disney movie that was first released in 1994.
Lion King Jr. is a remarkable tale of hope and adventure. It tells the story of Simba as he struggles to accept the responsibilities of adulthood and his destiny as king. Audiences won’t be able to resist dancing in their seats to the familiar beat of “I Just Can’t Wait to be King” and “Hakuna Matata.”
The WCT producers, Andrea Bates and Nina DePeugh proudly shared their enthusiasm for how the show has come together.
“This is a production unlike anything WCT has ever done before. Bringing the African Sahara to life on stage was a collaborative effort of our amazing costumes, props and sets committees. The dedication to this production from the cast, crew, professionals and our army of parent volunteers has been nothing short of amazing.”
The show is directed by Skip Ploss, musically directed by Barbara Speare, and choreographed by Judy Abbatiello. The set design was done by Ploss and built by Mike Bragg along with Clarissa Cannavino and Jessie Adams. Costumes were created by the talented Eliza Brown and Susan Onthank and props done by Margo Silvian. As in previous years, WCT is fortunate to have the expertise of Jim Durkin, from In Phase Audio and Craig Gehr of LX Lighting LLC.
Tickets are available online ($13.50) until Friday, Nov. 22 and at the door ($14.00) at Middlebrook School (cash and checks only). This year patrons are encouraged to bring a water bottle to fill as WCT starts to phase out selling plastic water bottles.
Show times:
Friday, Nov. 22, at 7 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 23, at 4 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 24, at 2 p.m.
Music and Lyrics by Elton John and Tim Rice
Additional Music & Lyrics by Lebo M., Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin and Hans Zimmer
Book by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi
Based on the Broadway production directed by Julie Taymor.
The Wilton Children’s Theater produces two major shows during the school year in the fall and spring with registration in August for interested children in 4th-8th grade. It also offers two abbreviated summer programs for children in 3rd-10th grades. Registration for Summer Stage 2020 will open in Feb. 2020. Visit the Wilton Children’s Theater online to join the mailing list and be alerted to registration and new shows.
