
The book was adapted by Roger Allers, who co-directed "The Lion King" animated feature, and Irene Mecchi, who co-wrote the film's screenplay. The Broadway score features Elton John and Tim Rice's music from "The Lion King" animated film along with three new songs by John and Rice additional musical material by South African Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Taymor and Hans Zimmer and music from "Rhythm of the Pride Lands," an album inspired by the original music in the film, written by Lebo M, Mark Mancina and Hans Zimmer. The Lion King is the seventh longest-running musical in Broadway history and one of only six productions in theatre history to play for ten years or more both on Broadway and in the West End. When last in Sydney, the musical ran for almost two years and played to 1.35 million people.

We look forward to re-introducing Sydney to Julie Taymor’s singular, captivating vision.”

In a statement Thomas Schumacher, producer and president Disney Theatrical Productions, said, “Australia – and Sydney in particular – have embraced our Disney stage musicals as warmly as audiences anywhere in the world and we are thrilled that The Lion King is being invited back.

The international hit musical will play Sydney’s Capitol Theatre beginning in December 2013.
