West Orange Elementary School To Present ‘Lion King’ (PHOTOS)

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following article comes courtesy of the West Orange Public School District. Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site here.

A charming version of the "Lion King Jr." will be presented at Edison Middle School, 26 William Street on May 10 and 11 beginning at 7 p.m.

The budding thespians have been hard at work for the past several months bringing the well-known story of Simba, the lion cub that learns how to be King, to life. Several strong and comic performances highlight the musical, which features all the beloved music by Elton John and Tim Rice, including "Circle of Life," "I Just Can't Wait to be King," and "Hakuna Matata."

Kaitlyn Hahn shines as Young Simba, hitting all the right notes in her portrayal of a young, emotional, and impressionable cub. Richard Arjoon is Mufasa, Simba's father, who loses his own life while saving his son's. Watch for Arjoon's solo on "They Live in You," which will amaze theatergoers.

Araya Sickles as Rafiki projects a confident air of wisdom and understanding while Ethan Syzmanski's villainous Scar is decidedly creepy and mean. Laila Fowlkes and Free Dixon play Timon and Pumba, who bring comic relief and camaraderie to the production. Pay attention to Hyena leader Trey Atterberry, whose comical approach to his character will bring some chuckles.

A strong supporting cast and ensemble tacke the choreography and melodic harmonies with ease, making the audience wonder if this is actually a middle school play.

Directed by teacher Molly Eisen, the cast is supported by a strong stage crew and band teacher Joe Romano and voice teacher Bonnie Pomeroy, who assist with sound and lighting.

Tickets are $5 at the door each night of the performance. See all the photos from "Lion King Jr." here.

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