The Lion King has been rumored to be coming to Calgary for close to four years. Four long, agonizing years. I distinctly recall a year and a half ago when the last season of Broadway Across Canada shows was announced, and learning that Cats was returning saying "That is NOT the feline musical I was wanting." Well 12 years after it made its debut, The Lion King has come roaring into the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, playing until August 30th.

From the opening seconds the Lion King pulls you in, as a giant elephant puppet walks down the aisle and gazelles leap across the stage. The costuming is based on African art: instead of painting the faces of the actors, they wear headpieces that allow you to see their face but move into place to represent the animal. The cast has masterfully captured the movements associated with the animals, especially the hyenas and lions.

While many of the songs will be familiar to those who have only seen the movie – The Circle of Life, I Just Can’t Wait To Be King, and Hakuna Matata for example, there are other songs that are only in the Broadway version. One such highlight is the song He Lives In You, especially the reprise in which Simba is visited by the ghost of his father. This incredibly powerful, moving number could possibly move you to tears, so be prepared.

While sound issues plagued the first half of the show, it could not take away from the performance; my friend who dislikes musicals, who I dragged out that night, determined that somehow I had converted him. When the cast took to the stage for bows, my friend joined the rest of the audience in giving a rousing standing ovation. If he, one who hates musicals, can enjoy this show, then I can only imagine what a musical lover will feel. From the voices to the sets and costuming, The Lion King is a five star show and not one to be missed.

Now if only Calgary would finally get Wicked, another show rumored for years, I can truly be happy.