Compared to 2008 revenues are down, and in some weeks quite sharply, causing Disney Theatrical Productions to heavily discount the tickets to their three Broadway shows. They are also preparing their new marketing plan for attracting families as well as others in this tough economy, in which three musicals from Disney are vying with each other.

Broadway performers Thom Sesma, Alton Fitzgerald White and Kissy Simmons are joining The Lion King cast for the upcoming production in Las Vegas. The production will begin previews on May 5 at Mandalay Bay Theatre, with May 15 scheduled as the official opening. The production in Las Vegas will be joining seven other productions of The Lion King that are currently playing worldwide, including in Fukuoka, Tokyo, Paris, Hamburg, London and New York as well as the national tour of North America.

This is going to be a very special year for South African audiences who will celebrate The Lion King’s ten year anniversary being a Broadway musical. Most of us saw the animated Disney movie of The Lion King years ago after it came out in 1997. The production will happen on a Johannesburg stage where a spectacular musical will take place showcasing immensely talented South African musicians.