Celebrate the Grandest Tales and Tastes of Africa During Harambe Nights at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Where were you when “The Lion King” came out in 1994? I was a tour guide at The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where several sequences featuring young Simba had been animated. It’s hard to believe, but this summer marks the 20th anniversary of that now-classic film. In honor of the epic tale of “The Lion King,” Disney’s Animal Kingdom is prepared to stage a special celebration event like no other.

It all begins with a Welcome Reception in the park’s Harambe Village, including mouth-watering appetizers and African-inspired wine and beer. Then it’s time for the ‘mane’ event! Take your seat inside the newly built Harambe Theatre for an unforgettable performance of “The Lion King – Concert in the Wild.” This all-new, never-before-seen theatrical experience features a live orchestra and choir, dancers, digitally projected movie moments, and dramatic lighting and scenic elements – all hosted by a celebrity guest narrator. The show brings to life the humor, heart, and stirring emotional power of Simba’s journey to find his place as the Lion King.

The lineup of celebrity narrators for “The Lion King – Concert in the Wild” features stars from movies, TV, and Broadway. Those scheduled to appear each night of the event include*:

• June 7 – Viola Davis: “The Help,” “Ender’s Game”
• June 14 – TBD
• June 21 – Montego Glover: “The Following,” “Memphis”
• June 28 – David Alan Grier: “Porgy & Bess,” “In Living Color”
• July 5 – Michael Beach: “ER,” “Third Watch,” “Sons of Anarchy”
• July 12 – Harry Lennix: “The Blacklist,” “The Five Heartbeats”
• July 19 – Joe Morton: “Scandal,” “American Gangster,” “The Good Wife”
• July 26 – Alfre Woodard: “Desperate Housewives,” “Miss Evers Boys”
• August 2 – Patina Miller: “Pippin,” “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1”
• August 9 – Brian Stokes Mitchell: “Ragtime,” “Trapper John, M.D.,” “Glee”

After the show, the celebration continues with the Harambe Nights Street Party, filled with music, characters, and live performers, encouraging everyone to join in and “Go wild!” You can enjoy an all-inclusive buffet of sophisticated and flavorful African cuisine and gourmet desserts. Exclusive Lion King merchandise and collectibles will be available for purchase during the event, and you’ll want to stick around for a special finale to bid “kwaherini” to a magical evening that could only happen at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

Harambe Nights takes place every Saturday from June 7 – August 9, 2014, with the Welcome Reception starting at 7 p.m. and a 7:30 p.m. show time. Tickets are $119 for adults, $79 for ages 3-9, plus tax. Tickets with premium floor seating are $134 for adults, $94 for ages 3-9, plus tax. Capacity is limited, so you’ll want to go ahead and get your tickets by visiting http://ift.tt/1rWEVDC or calling 407-939-1319.

(*Entertainment subject to change)

Celebrate the Grandest Tales and Tastes of Africa During Harambe Nights at Disney’s Animal Kingdom by Shawn Slater: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog