The Pride Lands have returned to Detroit.
Disney’s stage production of The Lion King is once again captivating audiences at the Detroit Opera House, bringing its sweeping music, elaborate puppetry, and timeless story back to the city for a limited run through April 5.
For actor Gilbert Domally, who stars as Simba in the touring production, stepping into one of theater’s most iconic roles is both exhilarating and deeply personal.
Simba’s journey from a grieving young prince to a leader who embraces his destiny is one Domally says resonates strongly with him.
“I identify with Simba wholeheartedly,” Domally said. “A part of Simba’s journey is the reminder to remember who you are no matter what you go through, or have gone through. You have everything you need to be great.”
That message, he said, is something he carries with him every night on stage.
“I carry that reminder with me every night on the stage. I am here for a purpose.”
Since premiering on Broadway in 1997, The Lion King has become one of the most successful and beloved musicals in theater history. The production has been seen by more than 127 million people worldwide and has toured across more than 100 cities.
Its North American tour alone has welcomed more than 25 million theatergoers over more than two decades.
Directed by Julie Taymor, the production blends Western musical theater with African rhythms, elaborate masks, and innovative puppetry to bring the animal kingdom to life on stage. Taymor’s visionary approach allows audiences to see both the human performer and the animal character simultaneously, creating what she has called a “double event.”
The spectacle is part of what continues to draw audiences nearly three decades after the show first opened.
The production features more than 200 puppets, including towering giraffes that reach 18 feet tall and a massive elephant puppet that travels through the theater aisle. Nearly 150 people are involved in mounting each performance.
But for Domally, the power of The Lion King goes beyond its visual grandeur.
Carrying the role of Simba, he said, comes with a sense of responsibility but also freedom to bring his own experiences to the character.
“It feels exhilarating,” Domally said. “I am honored to be among the amazingly talented artists who have played this role.”
Rather than trying to replicate previous performances, Domally approaches the role by drawing on his own emotions and life experiences.
“I bring my own life experiences with me into this role; my secrets, my fears, sometimes my sadness on any given day, and my joy,” he said. “I infuse every performance with whatever I may be experiencing that day, and I allow that to enhance the performance.”
That authenticity helps keep the decades-old production fresh for audiences and performers alike.
The musical tells the coming-of-age story of Simba, a young lion prince who must confront loss, face his fears, and ultimately reclaim his place in the Pride Lands. Along the way, he learns that leadership requires courage, responsibility, and an understanding of who he truly is.
The story’s universal themes continue to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Detroit audiences also bring their own energy to the experience, Domally said, something he is eager to feel during the show’s run in the city.
“I am excited for them to be blown away by the majesty of the production,” he said. “There is something to be gained from every aspect, the music, the costuming, and the heart that this company brings is truly remarkable.”
The Detroit engagement also includes local ties behind the scenes. Several musicians in the orchestra come from the metro Detroit area, contributing to the show’s powerful musical landscape.
In addition to regular performances, special themed events during the run include Kids Night on Broadway, Girl Scout Night, and a Divine Nine and HBCU Night featuring a reception and cast meet-and-greet.
For many theatergoers, however, the biggest draw remains the chance to experience a story that continues to inspire generations.
For Domally, it all comes back to the lesson at the heart of Simba’s journey.
No matter how far someone runs from their past or how lost they feel, he said, the path forward often begins with remembering who you are.
Performance information:
Disney’s The Lion King runs at the Detroit Opera House from March 12 through April 5, 2026. Tickets are available at the Detroit Opera House box office or online at www.ATGDetroit.com
