Having celebrated its 25th anniversary last October, the new cast join the beloved stage production later this Spring.
Stephenson Ardern-Sodje. Photo provided by production.
Disney's The Lion King reveals its plans for their new West End cast.
Stephenson Ardern-Sodje (Passing Strange, Young Vic) will join the West End production from 6 May - 28 September as Simba, having previously played the role on the UK and Ireland tour. Hope Maine, who also previously played Simba, will then take over until 25th January 2026.
Stephenson said: “I am delighted to be returning to the Pridelands as Simba, having previously had the joy of playing the role on the UK & Ireland tour. Joining the iconic London production at the Lyceum Theatre, which recently celebrated 10,000 performances, is a dream come true.”
Also joining the cast in May will be Pierre van Heerden as Pumba, who previously played the role on the International Tour and Sadia McEwen as Shenzi, who is currently playing Sarabi in the London production. They join current principal cast members George Asprey as Scar, Shaun Escoffery as Mufasa, Thenjiwe Nofemele as Rafiki, Gary Jordan as Zazu, Alan McHale as Timon, Merryl Ansah as Nala, Jorell Coiffic-Kamall as Banzai and Mark Tatham as Ed.
New members of the ensemble cast include Solomon Gordon, Reece McKenzie, Candida Mosoma, Nicholas Nkuna, Andrew Parfitt, Jessica Reeve, and Rochelle Sherona.
Opening in the West End back in 1999, The Lion King uses spectacular masks, puppets and costumes to tell the unforgettable story of Simba's journey to discover himself and his responsibility as future King. As one of the most successful family musicals in the World, The Lion King is a gorgeous production.
The Lion King is currently playing at the Lyceum Theatre through to 26 October 2025.
