How does music help tell a story? In musical theater, the music must do many things: move and entertain us, but also help us understand the characters and move the story forward.

THE LION KING animated film incorporated five songs by composer Elton John and lyricist Tim Rice: hits like "The Circle of Life," "Can You Feel the Love Tonight," and "Hakuna Matata." For the stage version, more songs were needed to explore Simba's growth and Nala's courage. The creative team turned to "The Rhythm of the Pridelands," a recording inspired by the film, featuring songs by South African songwriter Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, and Hans Zimmer. The lyrics of these soulful and evocative melodies were rewritten for the stage version, but their South African sound and mood became the foundation for a unique combination. Along with its daring design and direction, the score for THE LION KING musical blends American popular music with African rhythms into a seamless and completely new whole.