Disney’s THE LION KING, now in its 27th year, has today announced that Posi Morakinyo and Asha Parker-Wallace will take over the roles of Simba and Nala from Tuesday 5 May 2026.

Posi and Asha have just concluded starring alongside one another in the acclaimed Almeida production of American Psycho. Posi Morakinyo has recently appeared in the West End production of For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy and The RSC’s Much Ado About Nothing. Asha Parker-Wallace has recently appeared in Burlesque The Musical at The Savoy Theatre and Starter for Ten at Bristol Old Vic & Birmingham Rep.

Posi Morakinyo said:

“It’s an honour to be taking on the role of Simba in The Lion King. I’m excited to start this new adventure and be a part of this iconic show, sharing the stage with Asha once again”.

Asha Parker-Wallace added:

“It’s been so much fun working with Posi over the past few months. Now, playing the iconic roles of Simba and Nala on stage together at the Lyceum Theatre is a dream”.

Posi and Asha will also be joined by new company members including Stuart Neal as Timon, Michael Jeremiah as Banzai and Simone Robinson as Sarabi. Raul Reinoso, Steve Cornwall, Gabrielle de Souza, Lindokuhle Thabede, Marcellus Whyte and Shayna McPherson join the ensemble.

The original score from the animated film was expanded for the stage and now features 15 musical numbers. As well as writing completely new songs, South African composer Lebo M created an evocative blend of African rhythms and chorales, with additional material by Julie Taymor and Mark Mancina.