Disney's The Lion King Musical Roars into Grand Rapids

The acclaimed Broadway production brings its iconic story and visuals to West Michigan audiences.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:20pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shimmering golden theater curtain fabric, lit dramatically to highlight the luxurious, high-end texture and create a sense of opulence and spectacle.The lavish theatrical design and production values of Disney's The Lion King musical transport audiences to the Pride Lands with cinematic grandeur.Grand Rapids Today

The beloved Disney musical The Lion King has arrived in Grand Rapids, Michigan, as part of a touring production presented by Broadway Grand Rapids. The show, which has won 6 Tony Awards, features an impressive set and prop design that requires 18 semi-trucks to transport from city to city. Local flutist Darlene and actor Gilbert, who plays the adult Simba, joined the news segment to discuss the production's grand scale and the magic of bringing the iconic story to the stage.

Why it matters

The Lion King musical is one of the most popular and acclaimed stage adaptations of a Disney animated film, captivating audiences worldwide with its stunning visuals, soaring music, and timeless narrative. The touring production's stop in Grand Rapids provides West Michigan residents a rare opportunity to experience this theatrical masterpiece live.

The details

The Lion King musical is on stage at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids until April 26. The show's elaborate set and prop design, which includes numerous puppets and animatronic elements, requires an entire fleet of 18 semi-trucks to transport the production from city to city during its tour. Local musician Darlene, who serves as the show's flutist, and actor Gilbert, who portrays the adult version of the lead character Simba, joined the news segment to offer a behind-the-scenes look at the grand scale and intricate details that go into bringing the iconic Disney story to life on the stage.

  • The Lion King musical is on stage in Grand Rapids until April 26, 2026.
  • The show previously played at Miller Auditorium in Kalamazoo, Michigan, last year.

The players

Darlene

The flutist for the touring production of Disney's The Lion King musical and a resident of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Gilbert

The actor who plays the grown-up version of the lead character Simba in the touring production of Disney's The Lion King musical.

Broadway Grand Rapids

The organization presenting the touring production of Disney's The Lion King musical in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

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What they’re saying

“It's one of the most popular musicals of all time — and it's here in Grand Rapids through Broadway Grand Rapids.”

— Jessica Jurczak, News Anchor

“As you can imagine with a show like this, it comes with a huge number of props and set design – it actually takes about 18 semi trucks to transport the show from city to city.”

— Jessica Jurczak, News Anchor

What’s next

The Lion King musical will continue its tour, with upcoming stops in other cities across the United States.

The takeaway

The arrival of the acclaimed Disney's The Lion King musical in Grand Rapids showcases the city's growing reputation as a destination for high-caliber theatrical productions. The show's elaborate set design and talented cast underscore the remarkable artistry and technical expertise required to bring this iconic story to life on the stage.