Disney announced yesterday that the beloved show, The Lion King Festival, will somehow return this summer. Disney informed us that the show will return in a modified form to include security measures designed to keep artists and the public safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Considering the tight inner space of the Harambe Theater at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and some of the intricate dances and acts, including groups of performers and acrobats, we are wondering how much of the heart of the show will return with these safety measures in place. In October of last year, the entire cast of the Lion King Festival was fired.
One of the show’s most beloved artists is the Tumble Monkeys, a group of four skilled gymnasts who perform an impressive trapeze and gymnastics routine. Many of the turns, twists and swings that are performed in the act are done by Tumble Monkeys together, turning together or holding each other with their hands or legs together. It has been confirmed that this act will not be part of the modified version of the show that will come later this year.
Although we are definitely excited about the return of this public favorite, it is worth noting how different it will be.
We will keep you updated as more details about the return of the Lion King Festival are announced.