THE Walt Disney Company UK and Ireland has today released a first look at new cast members Stephenson Ardern-Sodje and Nokwanda Khuzwayo in the rehearsal room, having taken over the roles of Simba and Nala in The Lion King tour.

The celebrated production will be playing at Mayflower Theatre, Southampton, from September 8 to October 15.

The story of The Lion King roars into life using spectacular masks, puppets, and costumes to tell the story of Simba's epic adventures, as he struggles with the responsibilities of adulthood and becoming king.

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Set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains and to the evocative rhythms of Africa, Disney's multi award-winning musical is a unique theatrical experience that you will remember forever.

Brilliantly reimagined by acclaimed director Julie Taymor, Disney's beloved animated film has been transformed into a spectacular stage production.

At its heart is the powerful story of Simba and his epic adventure to his destined role as King of the Pridelands.

Daily Echo:

Having played in more than 100 cities in 20 countries on every continent except Antarctica, The Lion King's worldwide gross exceeds that of any film, Broadway show or other entertainment title in box office history. The landmark musical has now been seen by over 110 million people worldwide.

The previous tour of The Lion King, which played Southampton in the summer of 2014, broke attendance records across the nation. Since the UK premiere in 1999, The Lion King London has entertained more than 16 million theatregoers and is the sixth longest-running West End musical of all time.

Tickets are on sale now at mayflower.org.uk or 023 8071 1811.