Pine Bluff, Arkansas – The ARTx3 Campus is inviting children and teens to audition for Disney’s The Lion King Jr., a vibrant and emotional stage production based on the iconic Broadway musical and the classic animated film. Kids between the ages of 7 and 17 are encouraged to participate and “bring the Pride Lands to life with unforgettable characters, powerful music, and vibrant storytelling!”
Auditions are scheduled to take place from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, January 9, and from 2 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, at the Catherine M. Bellamy Theater on the ARTx3 Campus. Both members and non-members of the community can audition free of charge.
The musical, which runs approximately 60 minutes, is designed especially for middle-school aged actors, but welcomes performers of all experience levels who are ready to “shine, have fun, and show us your unique roar!”
What Auditioning Students Can Expect
Young hopefuls stepping into the spotlight will go through three key parts of the audition: singing, acting, and movement. Participants will be asked to “Choose one of the selected songs from the show and let your voice soar like the ‘Hakuna Matata.’” Song choices are character-driven and include well-loved favorites like:
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Scar/Mufasa – “Be Prepared”
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Rafiki/Nala – “Circle of Life”
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Simba – “Hakuna Matata”
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Timon and Pumbaa – “Hakuna Matata”
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Young Nala and Young Simba – “Just Can’t Wait to be King”
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Ensemble – “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”
After the singing portion, students will be asked to perform a short side, where they will “step into the Savannah” and portray characters such as Simba, Nala, Scar, Rafiki, or Timon & Pumbaa. Sides are short character-specific scenes available beforehand for preparation.
A lively dance call rounds out the audition process. Participants should be ready to “show your strength, rhythm, and storytelling with a fun, energetic movement through dance!” They are encouraged to watch and practice from videos provided in advance by choreographer Grace McKissic, especially routines set to “Hakuna Matata.”
Performance Dates and Creative Team
Directed by Emily Burris, with music direction by Melody Gere and choreography by Grace McKissic, The Lion King Jr. promises to be a professional, heartfelt production that delivers both magic and message.
Performances are scheduled as follows:
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School shows: Wednesday, March 11 at 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
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Public shows: Thursday, March 12; Friday, March 13; and Saturday, March 14 at 7 p.m.
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Additional shows: Saturday, March 14 at 11 a.m. and Sunday, March 15 at 3 p.m.
This adaptation captures the heart of the original film and stage musical, focusing on Simba’s journey as he learns to embrace leadership and find his courage to reclaim his place as king. According to the show description, The Lion King Jr. “tells the story of the epic adventures of a curious cub named Simba as he struggles to accept the responsibilities of adulthood and his destiny as king.”
Alongside beloved songs from the original 1994 film, audiences can expect additional numbers written for the Broadway stage.
How to Prepare
Audition packets, which include the list of songs, sides, and choreography videos, are available online. Aspiring actors must register in advance before audition day.
“Bring your best self!” the organizers encourage. Whether you’re experienced or completely new to performing, this is a unique chance to be part of something unforgettable. Let your roar be heard.
