Dear Nick, Janique, George, Shaun, Gary, Barnaby, Ben, Keith, Gugwana and the company of Lion King London,

I have a reputation when it comes to my theatregoing that I’m often “late to the party” when it comes to certain shows, as I can’t get into London as often or as regularly as I’d like to. Such was the case with the Lion King, my first visit was February 6th, 2016. This past Friday, I celebrated my birthday with you all and finally hit double figures with my 10th visit.

Though that’s probably nowhere near as many as some fans you have,but I want you to know how much I treasure the show, even though my visits are only once every few months. Having the disability I do means that it’s stupidly hard to be spontaneous, I have to rely on other people to either bring me to London or take me back home. It drives me mad sometimes, but I make the best of it, and that means I savour every single time I can make it!

I’m the musical theatre geek in my family, it’s been a real lifeline for me socially what with how I’m limited physically and helped me make some incredible friendships. I often latch on to particular shows if I enjoy them, and my parents especially my dad, find it incredibly hard to understand why I would see a show more than once. He says to me regularly “don’t you get bored? It’s the same thing each time!” My response to that is always the same: sure, the story doesn’t change, but the way a cast tell the story is different, and that for me is the fun of it… I notice new things each time, or scenes feel different and so on.

I think there’s a really special kind of energy about this show. I get such a joyful buzz out of being a repeat attendee in an auditorium full of people that may not have seen it before, and that’s thanks to you immensely talented folks. I’m consistently blown away by your energy, enthusiasm and incredible voices! It amuses me no end that I was never a huge fan of the film as a kid, but have a tremendous sense of connection to the show: it’s not only funnier in my mind but it has a real warmth & spirit because of its differences. Some of my favourite moments & songs are things we don’t see in the film, and even now after ten trips I still get goosebumps and tear up when I hear certain songs!

Nick – We have yet to meet, and this makes me so sad, as I want to tell you in person how incredible I think you are. Until that time when I will finally be lucky enough to do so, I guess the written word will have to do. You have been my third Simba, and are absolutely hands down my favourite. The first time I saw and heard you, I had the biggest smile on my face from your first entrance, and it’s my absolute joy to see your potrayal go from strength to strength each time I’ve seen you. Your take on Simba is full of the charm and charisma I love, and yet you also bring a sweet, more vulnerable side to him that I absolutely adore. The depth & sincerity you give him is astonishing, and your rendition of Endless Night gives me the most wonderful chills!

Janique – Thankyou for continuing my tradition of wonderful Nalas with such sass and aplomb.. you are everything I want in the character and more. I never had much of an affinity with the film version of Nala, but you continue to surprise me with how nuanced she can be. I always look forward to Shadowland because I know you are going to sing the hell out of it!

Gary – I can’t tell you how lovely it was to finally meet you on my birthday, and was absolutely floored by the warm reception you gave me at Stage Door, so thankyou for that just to start with! The humour you bring out in Zazu is absolutely brilliant and your timing and delivery cracks me up. I look forward to potentially seeing you as Scar one trip!

Gugwana – Gary told me when we spoke at Stage Door that you are new, so first off: welcome to one of my favourite theatrical families! Secondly and most importantly: I had no idea: you looked & like you had been up there ages and your voice is absolutely astounding! I look forward to seeing Rafiki continue to blow my mind now you’re here…

Barnaby – It’s awesome to see you onstage again, lovely man! You never fail to make me belly laugh and are definitely my favourite Hyena 😉

Keith & Ben – My wonderful double act.. you two are hilarious and like Nick I’m so sorry we haven’t met yet so I can thank you in person! I am in awe of the ease you seem to manage in those costumes and with the puppetry and the way you bounce off one another 😊

Shaun – it’s always a joy to watch you, sir! The warmth and strength you give Mufasa is so endearing, and I love watching you play off George, your chemistry with him as well as Gary and your Young Simbas is always incredible.

George – You know how much I adore your portrayal of Scar, I won’t bore you with repeating myself! What I need to say though, is thankyou. You are the magnificent villain that you are on stage, a juijitsu master in between, and yet you still find a way to give me more of your time, love and energy than I ever have right toa and that means more to me than I have suitable words to say. Heck, I’ve even told you so that often that I fear the words are beginning to lose all meaning! I don’t deserve it, but I hope you know how much it is appreciated.

With all my love & thanks, until next time,

Kerrie