The Lion King musical run arrives in Manchester tonight at the Palace Theatre
This run of shows was initially postponed because of Covid-19
The Lion King musical is kicking off tonight at Manchester's iconic Palace Theatre.
Having been previously postponed due to Covid-19, the award-winning show is back with a bang!
This run's cast features a wide range of both new talent and Lion King royalty.
This includes: former Hamilton the Musical actor Stephenson Ardern-Sodje in the title role of Simba and veteran Nala actor Nokwanda Khuzwayo who has performed as the leading lady across the world in a variety of different languages.
Also in the main cast is Thandazile Soni, who is continuing in the role of Rafiki, having performed in this role for the past 20 years since the show's original debut.
It's a musical with over 232 puppets and 350 costumes with the enchanting music by Elton John, Tim Rice and Lebo M, which promise to transport you to the heart of the African Pridelands.
In preparation for opening night, we spoke with Stephenson Ardern-Sodje about how he feels to be in Manchester.
He told us: " I lived in Manchester for three years, so I saw quite a few shows at the Palace when I wasn't even a performer so I had no idea I would ever be back here and performing at the venue.
"To perform in this space is really nice as it is such a beautiful and classic theatre.
"It just feels so important to be back especially after lockdown when people were so disconnected and understandably felt isolated - to bring a show that is all about community, unity and bringing people together.
"I think it couldn't be more timely to be bringing it back."