Union Responds to Festival of the Lion King’s Return in a New Statement

The Actor’s Equity Association has responded to the news of the return of Festival of the Lion King. See the statement below.

Festival of the Lion King

Hopefully you have heard the good news! Festival of the Lion King is returning to Disney’s Animal Kingdom! This Guest-favorite stage show features puppets, dancers, stilt walkers, and more performing classic songs from the film.

With the health and safety of Guests and Cast Members in mind, Disney will be making modifications for this show. Disney Parks Blog shares:

When it returns, “Festival of the Lion King” will be presented in a modified format to be mindful of the current environment. There will be adjustments to the show on stage and backstage, including updates to choreography to allow for appropriate physical distancing. We’ll also adjust how the audience is seated, in line with other theater-based experiences at Walt Disney World Resort.

It is expected to reopen sometime this summer.

Union Response

The Actor’s Equity Association represents more than 51,000 professional actors and stage managers in live theater. It has released the following statement regarding the return of Festival of the Lion King:

“Equity is pleased that Walt Disney World continues to find safe ways to bring live entertainment back to the parks, in particular this Celebration of the Festival of the Lion King,” said Brandon Lorenz, national director for communications and public policy for Actors’ Equity Association. 

“The Festival of the Lion King is a favorite for cast members and guests alike, and its return offers an important ray of hope while the vast majority of our members who work at Walt Disney World remain laid off because of the pandemic.”

Are you excited for the return of the Festival of the Lion King? What do you think of the union’s response? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook.