Hello, this is Ikeda from the editorial team. Recently I have been attending more adult oriented shows like “Moulin Rouge,” but this time I was invited to the long running classic The Lion King, and I am happy to share a family focused report.
In short, this is a show anyone can enjoy, and it is especially recommended for families with children.
Using a colleague’s report from about a year and a half ago as a reference, I will highlight why this beloved musical is such a perfect choice when you are bringing kids.
The earlier report covers the story, highlights, and tips in more depth. If you have not read it yet, I suggest checking it first.
Table of Contents
About The Lion King
It has become a worldwide phenomenon. For example, Shiki Theatre Company’s production has surpassed ten thousand performances. From the iconic opening “Circle of Life” to Simba’s coming of age journey, its universal appeal is clear.
For the synopsis, highlights, and principal characters, please see the detailed show page.
Comparing the live action film and the stage musical
Disney invested over $250 million to bring a “live action” version to screens in 2019, with Beyoncé as the voice of Nala. It became a global smash, earning more than $1.6 billion. After comparing the Broadway musical with the film, I personally preferred the stage version because the animals’ emotions are easier to feel live.
On stage, performers in animal inspired costumes operate large puppets while expressing emotions in bold, readable ways.
In that sense, the stage version feels closer to the animated original, with vivid expressions and distinctive traits for each animal.
The Lion King venue Minskoff Theatre
Minskoff Theatre
Because it is right in the center, there are many convenient hotels nearby. New York Marriott Marquis is directly across the street, and New York Hilton Midtown is about a ten minute walk. For families, the area stays lively even late at night, and walking back within a fifteen to twenty minute radius is generally no problem.
Address: 200 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
For the seating chart and theater features, please see the detailed theater page.
Instagram worthy spots inside the Minskoff
As noted in the previous report, there are plenty of photo friendly spots inside the Minskoff. Look up for the dramatic Mufasa sculpture above the escalators to the auditorium, and check out display pieces like actual costumes used in the show.
There is also a plush Simba for commemorative photos. Arrive a little early to explore the venue.
Click images to enlarge
Exclusive Lion King merchandise at the theater
As with Aladdin and Frozen, the official merchandise stands for The Lion King are extensive. At the top of the escalator beneath the Mufasa sculpture, the main stand spans roughly ten square meters and offers everything from T shirts (about $35) and plush toys (about $20) to mugs (about $22). Since you have come all the way to the theater, pick up a favorite souvenir.
Click images to enlarge
Kid friendly spots around the theater
Here are a few places to drop by with children before or after the show.
Cheesecake kids love: Junior’s Restaurant
Right next door to the Minskoff, just a 30 second walk, is Junior’s, the legendary Brooklyn born New York cheesecake spot.The rich yet easy to enjoy cheesecake (the plain flavor is my pick) is famous, and there is also a full restaurant, perfect for family lunch or dinner.
Disney Store on Broadway
Directly across the street from the Minskoff, this flagship location is a must for souvenirs. The selection is especially broad, with many New York exclusives, and the staff are known for friendly service.
Family friendly arcade: Dave & Buster’s
About a four minute walk from the Minskoff, Dave & Buster’s offers shooters, claw machines, and many more games that kids will love.There is also a bar on site, so adults can enjoy a drink while playing.
Musicals you can enjoy with children
Building on our reports for Frozen and Aladdin, here are some notes on taking kids to the theater.
Broadway age guidelines
The Lion King is intended for guests ages 6 and up. All guests need a ticket, and children under 2 are not admitted. What matters most is whether your child can sit quietly for about two and a half hours including intermission. In practice, many families visit with children from early elementary school age.
Compared with Aladdin and Frozen, this production stays close to the film, avoids difficult dialogue, and is highly visual, making it an excellent choice for families.
Please keep the following three points in mind for a smooth experience.
Three tips for taking kids to a musical
1) There is no child price. Everyone needs a ticket at the same price.
2) No lap seating. If needed, ask an usher for a booster cushion.
3) If a child becomes disruptive, staff may ask a parent or guardian to step out temporarily.
This visit’s seat
How to read your ticket: ORCHR V 12
Row V (the twenty first row from the front) seat 12 (six seats in from the aisle)
Since these were hosted tickets, I don’t mean to be picky, but sitting toward the back on the far side of the orchestra meant a small section of the stage was out of view.
During intermission we explored the rear orchestra and the mezzanine. The sightline issue was limited to this section. Elsewhere, most seats offered a full view of the stage. The mezzanine is fairly shallow from front to back, so even farther rows don’t feel too distant.
Honest review for The Lion King
Often called the number one recommendation for families, The Lion King sells out most days and has stayed popular for more than twenty years. We set out to pinpoint why it is such a strong choice for parents and children, and found many reasons, which we share here.
Disney musicals ease those worries. In The Lion King the upbeat songs are loud and lively, audience participation and comic bits are encouraged, and the cast even comes down the aisles at times. Outside of serious scenes, the room isn’t pressured into total silence. When characters make entrances or jokes land, the whole audience claps and laughs together, so it is not a problem even if a child cries out briefly.
That welcoming, energetic atmosphere, paired with Disney’s familiar characters, makes it easy for families to have a great time.
Costumes and staging make it easy even without English
it is our top recommendation if you aren’t confident with English.
Bold visual cues tell the story at a glance. Strong characters wear striking costumes, villains skew darker, and iconic moments like the cliff scene and the hyenas’ lair are staged with impressive clarity.
Rafiki’s opening chant of “Nants’ ingonyama” is not English, yet the intent is instantly clear, and the physical comedy gets laughs on its own.
Family friendly musical, yet inspiring for all ages
While it is wonderful for families, it is never simplistic. Seeing The Lion King again reminded me that its core is a universal story about the bond between parent and child.
Mufasa scolds young Simba when he acts recklessly, and even after his death, his words push Simba to face his future. Simba takes that guidance to heart and acts on it.
That trust, where no one is replaceable, feels specific to parents and children. When Simba sighs that he wants to be fearless like his father, Mufasa answers, “I do fear something. I fear losing you.” it is a line filled with profound love.
Why to choose The Lion King for a family night
If you have come all the way to New York, you will probably want to see at least one musical, yet going “all together” can feel daunting. Disney magic lowers that barrier, and The Lion King truly delivers for both adults and kids with excitement, wonder, and heartfelt moments. Most of all, you don’t need perfect English to follow it, and the visual storytelling keeps everyone engaged.
Sit together, feel the energy of Broadway in person, and watch Simba grow up as a family. Parents and children will notice different things, and the conversation afterward will be all about the show.
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