Disney's The Lion King is ruling over Sunderland Empire in stupendous style, with a show that is an absolute feast for the senses; with sensational visuals, a breathtaking set, a score than conjures up all manner of emotions and a cast who are utterly superb.
If you can free up just one night over the next six weeks, you simply HAVE to get to the Empire to see this show. It is often remarked that no-one does a stage show quite like Disney and The Lion King has got to be its trump card. A year on from Beauty and the Beast casting its enchanted spell over Wearside, this royally wonderful spectacle is quite something to behold.
While not wanting to spoil things for those with tickets or with those desperate to get some, the opening number, for me is the most stunning thing I think I have ever witnessed inside a theatre auditorium. There is so much to demand your attention in the first few minutes alone, with the bold and beautiful costumes and the intricate mechanics and puppetry as animals are brought to life in front of your very eyes, all set to a backdrop of one of the best Disney numbers even to be composed - the truly anthemic Circle of Life.
