The Lion King announces new cast

A new cast has been announced to star in the West End production of The Lion King.

Eleven new cast members take up their roles – which include a new Nala, Zazu and Shenzi. Janique Charles will take over as Nala. Charles joined the ensemble cast of The Lion King in London in 2016 after joining the UK touring cast in 2013. Nala will mark her West End debut in a lead role.

Gary Jordan is to play Zazu. Jordan has starred previously in Grease, Anyone Can Whistle and the UK tour of High Society. Dominique Planter, who has been a swing in The Lion King since 2016, will take on the role of Shenzi. This marks her West End debut in a principle role.

The rest of the cast include actors from the Philippines, Malawi, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Brazil and the UK. Lila Anderson, Owen Chaponda, Deborah Dada, Debôrah Godchaser, Brian James Leys, Nathan Louis-Fernand, Nonhlanhla Makthathini, Rutendo Mushonga, Luciano Santos Souza and Karlene Wray complete the new cast.

The Lion King is Disney's musical adaptation of the hit film. The show won six Tony Awards and two Olivier Awards as well as the NY Drama Critics' Circle Award for Best Musical. It is running in its 18th year in London.

The Lion King is currently booking at the Lyceum Theatre until 3 December.