New York – Kenyan‑born filmmaker and National Geographic director Faith Musembi stepped behind the curtain of Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway this week to see how the iconic stage production brings the majesty of real lions to life. Musembi, who co‑directed Nat Geo’s four‑part series “Lion,” used the visit to draw parallels between the theatrical storytelling and the documentary’s focus on lion cub Kio’s journey to become king.
From the Savanna to the Stage
“It’s a story of loss, a tale of finding your own place in the grand circle of life,” Musembi said, noting the clear resonance between Kio’s narrative and Simba’s rise in the Broadway show. The director explained that both projects aim to celebrate the natural world while offering audiences a sense of wonder and reverence for these “majestic creatures.”
Behind the Puppets and Masks
At the Minskoff Theatre, Musembi first met Lynda White, Head of Puppets, who guided her through the extensive collection of lion masks and puppetry pieces used in the production. White explained that each mask was modeled after real‑life lions, capturing the animals’ powerful presence and subtle expressions.
Learning the Lioness Dance
Next, Musembi sat down with Ruthlyn Salomons, Resident Dance Supervisor, to observe a choreography created by award‑winning choreographer Garth Fagan. Salomons described how the movement “makes the women look regal and dangerous,” mirroring the behavior of female lions in the wild. The dance, performed by the show’s lioness ensemble, blends African rhythmic patterns with contemporary theater technique.
Cast Perspectives
Finally, Musembi chatted with actors Pearl Khwezi and Mduduzi Madela, who portray Nala and Simba. Khwezi highlighted the importance of singing in native South African languages, saying, “It’s beautiful to know the world can share in our music and our stories.” Madela added that performing such an iconic role carries a responsibility to honor both the cultural roots of the story and the universal themes of courage and responsibility.
Connecting Two Worlds
“I want people to feel the same joy they experience watching The Lion King on Broadway when they view National Geographic’s ‘Lion,’” Musembi said. The series, now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu, follows lion cub Kio from his early days in the savanna to his eventual ascension as king, offering viewers an intimate look at lion behavior, family dynamics, and conservation challenges.
Disney’s “Protect the Pride” initiative, highlighted in the series’ promotional material, underscores the company’s commitment to lion conservation through habitat protection and community education. Viewers can explore an activity packet linked to the series for deeper engagement.
For New Yorkers and theater lovers alike, Musembi’s behind‑the‑scenes tour illustrates how art and science can collaborate to inspire stewardship of the natural world, reminding audiences that the roar of the theater can echo the roar of the savanna.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
