MANILA – Six actors from the Philippines have been chosen to be part of the international tour of Disney’s “The Lion King” musical, which will make its first stop in Manila next year.

Julien Joshua Dolor, Pablo Palacpac, and Juan Gabriel Tiongson will share the role of Young Simba, while Sheena Bentoy, Uma Martin, and Felicity Napuli will take on the character of Young Nala.

Other cast members include Ntsepa Pitjeng, who returns as Rafiki after portraying the role in the United States, United Kingdom, Brazil, and Switzerland productions; and West End’s Mthokozisi Emkay Khanyile and Antony Lawrence as Mufasa and Scar, respectively.

Also part of the principal cast are Andre Jewson of Australia (Zazu), Jamie McGregor of New Zealand (Timon), and South African performers Pierre van Heerden (Pumbaa), Calvyn Grandling (Simba), Noxolo Dlamini (Nala), Candida Mosoma (Shenzi), Bjorn Blignaut (Banzai), and Mark Tatham (Ed).

“Julie Taymor and her extraordinary creative team have brought together a truly diverse company, representing twelve countries in this production of enormous scale, beauty and heart. I cannot wait for new audiences in the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan to share an indelible theatrical experience for the first time, with this talented cast,” said Thomas Schumacher, president and producer of Disney Theatrical Productions.

“After six months of intensive auditions, we have been able to bring together a truly international group of performers that will showcase the talent from almost every corner of the world. From seasoned professionals to actors making their professional debut, this company of ‘The Lion King’ will be sure to delight and amaze audiences as we tour this phenomenal production around the globe,” added Michael Cassel, who is the producer of the international tour.

“The Lion King” musical will begin its international tour on March 18, 2018 at The Theatre at Solaire in Parañaque City. Tickets will go on sale starting November 3.

Shows will also be held at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore starting on June 27, 2018, as well as in Korea, Taiwan, and South Africa.

Since its Broadway premiere in 1997, “The Lion King” musical has been seen by more than 90 million people.

It has been staged in 100 cities in 19 countries and translated into eight languages: Japanese, German, Korean, French, Dutch, Spanish, Mandarin and Portuguese.