How do you become part of the cast of The Lion King?

As a musical performer, you combine music with acting. You are the person who stands on stage and transports the audience into a world full of emotions and stories with your performance. This profession is not only about bringing melodies and lyrics to life, but more importantly about embodying the characters and storylines in a musical play or show.

Your specific tasks range from mastering complex song and dance numbers to portraying different characters with convincing acting. Music theory, speech training, individual and ensemble lessons are just as much a part of the schedule as ballet or jazz dance lessons. You work closely with directors, choreographers and other performers to stage an impressive live performance. While on stage everyone has to harmonise perfectly, the preparation and rehearsal time requires precise work.

To be successful as a musical performer, it is advantageous to have a high level of creativity, originality and the ability to express deep emotions through singing and acting. The profession of a musical performer can be very work-intensive, especially before a premiere, and requires strong nerves and plenty of motivation. Nevertheless, it offers a unique and exciting career with varied productions that never make everyday work boring.

The world of musicals is extremely competitive and engagements in productions are few and far between. Accordingly, the training positions for musical performers are also highly competitive. To apply for a classical apprenticeship, stage experience and proven skills in dance, singing and acting are invaluable and can make all the difference in an application or audition.