Can You Still Feel The Love Tonight?

[Unknown User]

Posted: 8/7/05 at 6:37pm

Lion King Tour in Chicago 8/7/05 Cadillac Palace

I took my Boyfriend & his Mom to see Lion King. I was jealous when I realized they'd get to see it all for the first time. It really is a magical experience- still, after all these years.

I know we've all seen shows that, a year into their run, have lost their way. I can't believe this tour has been out on the road for YEARS and still managed to get onstage (for the second time in a day) and sparkle!

There were a couple understudies: Charles Gray as Mufasa was fine. Nothing flashy but good work. He was a powerful King. Robbie Swift was on as Zasu and I wouldn't have believed he hasn't done it a thousand times. Excellent timing, wonderful bits, he had the kids rolling in the aisle. Timon & Pumba were fine performances also, animating their characters so well that you forget the encumberances they have. The ensemble was wonderful, still lively and sharp. The thing that always sticks with me with this show is that whenever I've seen it, the cast radiates confidence and pride. When they perform one of those wonderful numbers, filled with creative stagecraft and amazing costumes, they KNOW they are doing something special, taking the audience on an amazing journey, unlike some shows where the cast just seems like "Yeah, here's "Another Op'ning, Another Show."

A couple of standouts: Young Simba (Sorry, I have no idea which one it was-- I think Michael Nino Locke) was spectacular! He was a fireball, running, leaping and connecting with both Mufasa & Scar. And Scar-- Chicago's own Larry Yando was wonderful. I was looking forward to seeing him and was not disappointed. He really makes that part sing. You can be a bad guy and STILL make the audience love you.

As always with the Lion King, the house was full of kids. I think it's great we have two such strong "Gateway" musicals playing in Chicago right now. If Kids see Lion King and Wicked, it will lay a groundwork of theatre-love for the rest of their lives. And speaking of Wicked, LOTS of wicked bags & T-shirts in the house- apparently many people make a day of chicago theatre, seeing one at the Matinee and one at night. I think that would be a bit much, but they looked tired and happy.

Lion King is here for almost another month. Maybe Wicked is pulling the audience away, because the house was not quite full on a Saturday Night. You can walk up and get tickts to most weekday evenings. There are even some discounts out there.

I'd recommend it. It was great to see the King looking so strong and fresh. The audience was squealing with delight at every move. We bought the cheapest tickets and although we were almost in the very back row, we could hear and see everything. Well worth our $30!

[Elphaba]

Posted: 8/7/05 at 6:46pm

great review Joe, I have tickets for the 28th as part of my partners birthday present (along with Anyone Can Whistle at ravinia) and a few other things.
I've always wanted to see the Lion King, and he's pretty excited too.
We come back Sep 1 (we're flying out and back in to San Diego) drive home, and then drive back to San Diego on Sep 4th for Little Women.......