The Paramount Theatre’s production of The Lion King brought the long-running Broadway musical to Seattle for a
limited engagement, through Dec. 4, 2025 – Jan. 4 (Seattle Theatre). The show is part of the national Broadway tour that recreates the original stage production first seen on Broadway in 1997 (Playbill). On the 27th of December, I had the opportunity to attend a performance that delivered a visually striking and emotionally engaging experience. From the opening number to the final bow, the production’s attention to music, lighting, and costumes took my breath away.
History
The Lion King first premiered on Broadway in 1997 and quickly became one of the most successful musicals of all time (Playbill). Based on Disney’s 1994 animated film, the stage production was adapted by director Julie Taymor, who introduced innovative puppetry, masks, and costume designs to bring the animals to life (Disney Theatrical Group). Since its Broadway debut, the show has toured internationally, performing in cities around the world and earning multiple Tony Awards, including Best Musical, for its groundbreaking visuals and storytelling (Playbill).
Upcoming Performances
Following The Lion King, the Paramount Theatre continues its 2025–2026 Broadway season with several major
touring shows scheduled to arrive in Seattle. After The Lion King’s run through January 4, 2026, the theatre will present A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical from January 13–18, 2026, followed by The Wiz (Wizard of Oz) in February, The Notebook in March, Les Misérables in April, and The Phantom of the Opera in May. These performances are part of the Broadway at the Paramount series, which brings national touring productions to the venue throughout the season (Seattle).
Seeing The Lion King live at the Paramount Theatre was an unforgettable experience. I truly enjoyed the music, costumes, and stagecraft, which brought the story to life in a way that photos and recordings simply can’t capture. With Paramount preparing for its next lineup of touring productions, audiences can look forward to many more spectacular shows this season.
Citations
Seattle Theatre Group. Retrieved January 9, 2026, from https://www.stgpresents.org/events/disneys-the-lion-king/
Playbill (broadway, minskoff theatre, 1997). (2022, January 3). Playbill. https://playbill.com/production/the-lion-king-new-amsterdam-theatre-vault-0000008729
Disney theatrical group. (n.d.). The Lion King UK. Retrieved January 9, 2026, from https://www.thelionking.co.uk/disney-theatrical-group
Seattle, P. T. (2016, October 26). Paramount theatre. Paramount Theatre Seattle | Latest Events, Information & Tickets. Independent Theater Guide. Not a Box Office or Venue. https://www.paramounttheatreseattle.net/events/
