Welcome to the Pride --
It has been nearly 24 years since Disney released the original animated version of The Lion King and since then it has become a world wide phenomenon. From Disney's original animated movie, to the Tony-winning Broadway musical adaptation, to the upcoming live action film, audiences can't help but fall in love with this show's captivating characters, moving music, and inspiring story.
My journey with the musical version of The Lion King started long before my time here at KIPP Comienza, and in 1996 in a crowded rehearsal studio in Midtown Manhattan where the first open call for Young Simba was being held. Although I did not book that show it has always been a dream of mine to be involved in a production of The Lion King. Today that dream comes full circle as we open our first of many production here at Comienza.
When Ms. Helguera and I sat down for our initial conversation about the vision for our Performing Arts program here at Comienza I knew we needed to shoot for the stars. We knew this show would be a challenge. This show craves spectacle, and creating the African Savannah in our gym was no small feat, but for every challenge and roadblock we faced, we overcame it with the incredible support of our community.
In this coming-of-age tale, Simba, too, is met with some unique challenges. When he doesn't have the courage to confront them on his own, the support and guidance of his friends and community help him to face his past, embrace his journey, and take the reins to lead his kingdom.
This show allowed me to dive deep and explore the how we are all connected.
"Through despair and hope/through faith and love/'til we find our place/on the path unwinding/in the circle/the circle of life." The circle of life weaves a common thread through us all. In our theater community, there is a place for everyone and no hardship has to be faced alone.
I am completely overwhelmed with gratitude and pride for all of those involved in this productions. The results are far greater than anything I could have ever hoped for.
To the cast — Be fearless and leave it all out there on the stage. I am SO proud of each and everyone of you!
Dianna — Thanks for being my rock and keeping it real with me. I could not have done this without you!
Mina — You have been nothing short of amazing! The work you’ve done to bring life and depth to this beast of a score is astonishing.
Melissa, Nisha, Katie, Amanda and Dom — Thank you for your unwavering support — this could not have been done with you.
Enjoy the show.
Hakuna Matata,
Maxwell Peters
