"Hakuna matata." When you are tired after a busy day, and all your nerves are cracking, just say "Hakuna matata." "It means no worries for the rest of your day"(taken from lyric of Hakuna Matata). Aren't these words reminiscent of something? Yes, you are right. They are words in a song of the animation The Lion King. As an animation, you might have watched more than once. It is the story of animals living on the plains of Africa. If you want to watch something that can evoke your memories of childhood, I would recommend you watching the musical The Lion King.
An Animation Turned into Broadway Musical
The Lion King was originally produced by The Walt Disney Company. It was Disney's 32nd animation production. Just as the other movies were loved, it was loved by many people young and old. Interestingly, the storyline of this movie was not from a fable or literary works. It was the storyline originated by The Walt Disney Company. Although the filmmakers said that this movie was inspired by Shakespeare's Hamlet and The Story of Joseph and Moses in the Bible, there is a rumor that supports Disney plagiarized the Japanese television anime production Kimba the White Lion.
This Oscar award-winning animated film was reproduced into a 150 aminutes stage performance Musical The Lion King. It was produced under the Julie Taymor's direction. Music was written by Elton John and lyrics were composed by Tim Rice along with the musical score created by Hans Zimmer. You may have heard of some of these people. So you can imagine how great this musical must be. After itslaunch on Broadway, this musical won a Tony award and is now Broadway's 7th longest-running show in history.You Cannot Imagine
At the beginning of the show, all the animals walked from the back to the stage. The audience could not forget that memorable scene. Actors in costumes and hollow puppets were so elaborate that I was smittn by them. Jaw-dropping stage-direction techniques captuted my mind. Also, all characters on the stage performed very well. I was thrilled to the last minute. Creative and fresh stage direction was the best part of the show.
Feel the Wold Life of Africa at the Very Heart of the City
Since it is a long-run show. the Minskoff Theatre is one of the greatest sightseeing places in New York. So, if you have a chance to visit New York, don't forget to watch the show. After the show, you can visit one of the world's busiest places, the Time Square in New York.
By So Hae-jin CP Reporter
so-hj@cnu.ac.kr
