West End cast and crew send special Lion King message to Newington primary pupils

Little ones from Newington went to see The Lion King

The cast and crew of top West End musical The Lion King have sent a personal good luck message to children at Newington Community Primary School in Ramsgate ahead of their own version of the award-winning show.

They encouraged the young actors to make their production a roaring success.

Reception and Years 1 and 2 pupils were engrossed when they saw the lavish musical at the Lyceum Theatre in London a few weeks ago, which was the topic entry point for them to look at all themes raised in the production from the heritage and culture of Africa to the music and ethics behind the lions’ tale.

The inspiring message reads: “We heard about all the great work you are doing to get ready for your production of The Lion King.

“Whether you are on a West End stage or in a school hall, putting on a show takes a lot of people and even more hard work. Here in London’s West End we perform The Lion King eight times a week. It takes 150 people to make the show happen each night from performers to make-up artists and stage managers to stage crew, every single person contributes to the show in a meaningful way.

“We’re thrilled that you’ve experienced the impact of The Lion King by producing your own unique version of the show. As you get ready for your opening night know that you are now part of a global heritage.

“The tale of a lion cub embarking on his journey to the throne has resonated with people on six continents, been performed in eight languages and has reached an audience of over 90 million people.

“Your production is now part of that legacy; thank you for joining us on the path unwinding.

“Support each other, celebrate your accomplishments and above all have fun sharing your work.

“From us all at The Lyceum Theatre in London to everyone at your school..”It is time…”

And the message concludes with the age old theatrical ethos – “Break a leg on opening night!”

Head Teacher Cliff Stokes said: “What a massive boost for our school. The children are really buzzing about the show and this message from the cast and crew from the show that enthralled them all just a few weeks ago is very special.

“I am sure our version of The Lion King will do its best to uphold the huge high standards, ethos and sheer joy behind the original musical. We can’t wait.”

Newington pupils watched Wicked at the Apollo Victoria

Pupils from Years 3, 4 and 5 got a taste of West End magic when they saw Wicked, the story of the witches from Oz, at the Apollo Victoria, and themes from both productions have been used as part of the school’s literacy drive and in cross curricular activities all term.

All year groups will contribute to the special production that will highlight through songs and performance the various elements of The Lion King and Wicked that they have been exploring in class

The show will be presented live in the Newington Primary School’s theatre space on May 24 and 25, and it will be streamed live via the internet for friends and family around the world to join in the fun.