I am glad to see these shows finally getting the love they deserve. They are among the first I saw on Broadway, back to back days actually. I was 13 at the time and I loved them both immensely. I have seen each of them twice since this time (either Broadway, tour, regional) and I haven't seen a bad production yet. The magic is still there for me five years later. Were it not for Lion King Broadway cast recording, I would probably not be as interested in Broadway as I am. I would say these two shows are my all-time favorites along with Cats (which I saw a day before the first two). In short, people should take the stick out of their butts and realize that these shows have some very potent theatrical magic and are going to be the shows that introduce new generations of theatergoers (just please not on the nights I am there). I have always been adamant about not labeling Lion King a kid's show though. Beauty is harder to defend, but it's damn good in my opinion if done correctly.
Dean: Can I tell you something?
Lorraine: That depends on what it is.
Dean: I think you're really really pretty.
Lorraine: (after a pause) Ok, you can tell me that.
