The Lion King Tour at Keller Auditorium Portland: Tickets, concert dates, awards and critics’ reviews

The Lion King Tour in Portland, Oregon, will take place from January 7 to January 28, 2024, at the Keller Auditorium. Critics have praised the show for its imaginative creative team, led by Tony Award-winning director Julie Taymor, and the extraordinary work of Tony Award-winning choreographer Garth Fagan, crafted by Tony Award-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice

Having won six Tony Awards including Best Musical, The Lion King stage adaptation has become one of the most beloved and successful Broadway shows of all time. With direction by Julie Taymor and unforgettable songs by Elton John and Tim Rice, the musical brings the classic 1994 Disney film to life in an imaginative blend of puppetry, dance, and spectacle.

Critics have raved about the groundbreaking theatricality of the production. As Jesse Green wrote in his New York Times review, “There is simply nothing else like it.” Ben Brantley praised it as “the most emotionally stirring production Broadway has seen in years” with “astonishing visual richness.”

During its 22 years on tour across North America, The Lion King has been seen by over 20 million theatergoers in over 80 cities. This new touring production will feature all the original music, story, and design that make it a true once-in-a-lifetime theatrical experience for audiences of all ages.

The plot of the musical The Lion King

The Lion King stage musical tells the beloved coming-of-age story of Simba, a young lion prince destined to be king. When his evil uncle Scar murders Simba’s father King Mufasa and drives Simba into exile, the young lion must grow up and reclaim his rightful place on Pride Rock.

On his journey from wide-eyed cub to powerful monarch, Simba relies on the wisdom of loyal friends like wise baboon shaman Rafiki, dutiful hornbill Zazu, and warm-hearted warthog Pumbaa alongside meerkat Timon. He also finds love with strong-willed lioness Nala, who helps him accept his place in the Circle of Life.

Some of the show’s most iconic moments involve the groundbreaking puppet designs, including the elephant graveyard hyenas stalking Simba and Nala and the wildebeest stampede that leads to Mufasa’s tragic demise. Through the magic of imaginative costumes and puppetry, the animals truly come to life on stage.

By following Simba’s coming-of-age against the backdrop of the animal kingdom, The Lion King ultimately offers a profound message about growing up, facing responsibilities, and finding one’s rightful place in the world. Audiences will leave the theater feeling uplifted by Simba’s journey toward embracing his identity and fulfilling his destiny as the one true king.

The Lion King Tour Tickets Portland

Dates: January 7 to January 28, 2024

Don’t miss your chance to experience this breathtaking Broadway spectacle!

Watch The Lion King at the Keller Auditorium in Portland

The Keller Auditorium has been a cultural pillar in downtown Portland for over 50 years. Located at 222 SW Clay St, the 2,992-seat theater first opened in 1968 and has hosted hundreds of concerts, touring theater productions, and other special events.

Known for its superb acoustics and sightlines, the mid-century modern venue will be the perfect setting for the spectacular theatrics of Disney’s The Lion King. Because the musical relies so heavily on visually stunning costumes and puppetry to bring the Serengeti to life, Keller Auditorium’s large size and seating capacity will allow the audience to fully appreciate the imaginary world on stage.

In preparation for The Lion King, Keller Auditorium is currently undergoing renovations to modernize the lobby and interior spaces while maintaining its original unique architecture. By the time Simba takes the stage in January 2024, the theater will offer visitors an even more welcoming and comfortable environment to watch this must-see Broadway hit.

Given the wide popularity of both the movie and the Disney musical, tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Theater fans of all ages will not want to miss their opportunity to see the magic of The Lion King come to life at Keller Auditorium.

The Lion King Portland Keller Auditorium 2024: Seating Chart

Keller Auditorium offers excellent views of the stage from every seat in the house. The 2,992-seat hall features a sweeping, semicircular layout focused toward the expansive proscenium stage.

The Orchestra section makes up the majority of seating, sloping gradually toward the stage in rows A-X to ensure good sightlines from below. The unique parterre boxes along the side walls offer more intimately close view of the production.

The Loge and Mezzanine sections in the rear balcony have a steeper incline, raised above the Orchestra below. Though farther back, these elevated seats provide excellent elevated perspectives overlooking the full stage. Their steep angle also creates a more dramatic, immersive theatrical experience.

With excellent acoustics throughout, Keller Auditorium provides the ideal setting for intimate moments alongside the grand spectacle of The Lion King. Every seat will allow audiences to be transported to the majestic Serengeti setting.

The Lion King North American Tour cast list

• Peter Hargrave as SCAR
• Gerald Ramsey as MUFASA
• Mukelisiwe Goba as RAFIKI
• Nick Cordileone as TIMON
• Nick LaMedica as ZAZU
• John E. Brady as PUMBAA
• Darian Sanders as SIMBA
• Khalifa White as NALA
• Forest VanDyke as BANZAI
• Martina Sykes as SHENZI

Theater Keller Auditorium hosting The Lion King – how to get there

To get to the Keller Auditorium theater in Portland, Oregon, you can use public transport or drive. The theater is located at 222 SW Clay Street, Portland, Oregon 97201.

By car:

• From I-5 Southbound or I-84 Westbound, follow the signs toward City Center.
• After crossing the Morrison Bridge, follow SW Washington to 3rd Avenue.
• Turn left on 3rd Avenue and go 10 blocks to SW Clay St.
• Keller Auditorium is the building on the left.

By bus:

• All Tri-Met buses destined for Portland City Center converge on the transit mall.
• Northbound buses travel 6th Avenue through the center of town, and Southbound buses travel on 5th Avenue.
• Ask your bus driver to let you out at the stop nearest SW Clay St.
• Walk east on Clay to 3rd Avenue, and Keller Auditorium is at the corner of 3rd and Clay.

Parking options near the Keller Auditorium include:

• Street parking (metered until 7 p.m.—obey signs).
• Pay surface lots (look for signs around theaters).
• Smart Park parking garages (click icon on right side of page for locations).
• Recommended parking at the 200 Market Building, which is a long-time supporter of Portland Opera and is located close to the venue.

Some other nearby parking options include Crown Plaza, KOIN Tower, and City Center Parking[3]. Be sure to plan ahead and consider using a parking app to find available parking spots near the theater.

When visiting the Keller Auditorium, it is recommended to arrive early to secure a parking spot and ensure a smooth experience. The venue is accessible by driving, walking, or transport.

Video The Lion King:

The Lion King Musical FAQ

Is there a minimum age to watch The Lion King?

There is no minimum age, but the show is recommended for ages 6 and up. Children under 3 will not be admitted.

How long is The Lion King show?

The show is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes including one intermission.

How early should I get to the theater to see The Lion King?

It is recommended to arrive 45-60 minutes before showtime to allow time for parking, will call pickup, restrooms, and finding seats.

Can I take pictures in the theater during The Lion King?

No photography or video recording is allowed during the performance. Be sure to turn off electronic devices when inside the theater.

Are there any special effects during the performance of The Lion King?

Yes, the show utilizes unique theatrical effects like puppetry, shadow projections, moving scenery, fog, haze, and theatrical lighting. Strobe lighting and loud noises may occur.

How much do tickets cost for a performance of The Lion King at Keller Auditorium?

Ticket prices range from $35 – $155 depending on seat location. Premium seats are available.

How do I get tickets for The Lion King using this website?

Select your showdate and desired number of tickets to see pricing and purchase online.

What are the best seats to watch The Lion King at Keller Auditorium?

The center Orchestra section offers excellent views of the stage. For an immersive experience, try the side parterre boxes near the stage. Loge and Mezzanine center seats also provide great elevated views.

Is Keller Auditorium wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the venue is fully accessible with elevators, wheelchair seating areas, and ADA restroom facilities.

Are there any discounted tickets for The Lion King?

A limited number of discounted tickets are available in certain sections for select performances.

Are there any refunds for The Lion King tickets?

Refunds are not offered unless a performance is canceled. Exchanges may be available for an alternate date, subject to availability.

Are there any opportunities to meet the cast of The Lion King after the show?

There are no organized meet and greets with the cast. Occasionally performers may greet audience members briefly at stage doors following the show.