Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra to perform The Lion King live

The 84-piece orchestra will be led by South African conductor Eddie Clayton.

The 118-minute Jon Favreau-directed film will play for the first time alongside an orchestra in SA.

“I have always loved The Lion King from the first moment I saw the original movie and when I took my family to the new 2019 version. I was captivated all over again,” Clayton said.

“Needless to say, when I got the call to conduct Disney’s The Lion King live in concert − I couldn’t believe it. The whole concept of watching the movie with a live 84-piece symphony orchestra is simply a dream come true and to be conducting Hans Zimmer’s score is both an honour and privilege.

“I am also incredibly excited to be working with the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra again. As the premier orchestra in South Africa, I know that this wonderful orchestra is going to bring this story, quite literally, to life.”

Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra CEO and artistic director Bongani Tembe also commented on the collaborative performance: “The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra is excited to be part of the stunning project: Disney’s The Lion King − the all new film live in concert at the Sun Arena. The orchestra score/soundtrack by Hans Zimmer is diverse and riveting − a must to experience live.”

Tickets to the event can be purchased here.