Disney's The Lion King JR

Disney's The Lion King JR. The Pride Lands come alive: Bigger, bolder, and more breathtaking than ever. South Africa's most beloved children's theatre production returns for its most spectacular season yet at National Children’s Theatre 03-19 July 2026.

Disney's The Lion King JR. brings the magic of one of the world's best-loved stories to the stage, with iconic songs, breathtaking choreography, and the raw, joyful talent of 51 extraordinary young performers aged 7 to 13 who bring the Pride Lands to life as the circle of life continues. Young Simba has big shoes, or rather, big paws, to fill. After the loss of his father Mufasa, he flees the Pride Lands, haunted by guilt and pursued by his scheming uncle Scar. But with the help of the irrepressible Timon and Pumbaa, and guided by the wisdom of those he loves, Simba discovers his true destiny.

Now in its third season, this year's production is brand new: Newly directed, choreographed, and entirely reimagined. Whether it's your first time or your third, this is the season not to miss.

Led by Artistic Director Ivor Jones and directed by Game Bovana, this all-new production is choreographed by Oscar Buthelezi, bringing fresh movement, energy, and vision to every scene, with vocal coaching by Ntambo Rapatla. Alongside our cast of 51 performers—who are already rehearsing and pouring their hearts into this production—NCT is proud to welcome back the choir of Donaldson Primary School, whose voices add a dimension of beauty and community that makes this production truly special.

This is National Children's Theatre's most ambitious production of The Lion King JR. to date, reimagined from the ground up, and performed exclusively at NCT. If you've seen it before, you haven't seen it like this. Right here, in Parktown.

When: 03 – 19 July 2026 at 10:30 and 14:30

Where: NCT, 3 Junction Avenue, Parktown 2193

Ages: Families and Schools

School Bookings: Call Nthabiseng Mmethi 011 484 1584 or [email protected]