Meet the Cast of Lion King JR
Here’s a glimpse into the lives of some talented young actors from the production of The Lion King JR:
Jason Woollatt (Scar, 12)
Jason loves singing, acting, and making people laugh. He enjoys playing a villain because it challenges him and allows him to have fun on stage. He appreciates making friends with cast members and bringing joy to the audience, even if Scar is a bit scary!
Simthandile Alie (Nala/Zazu, 11)
This is Simthandile’s third time performing in The Lion King JR. She enjoys learning new skills from different directors and appreciates the friendships she makes while working with her peers.
Boikanyo Lekasapa (Mufasa, 13)
Boikanyo plays Mufasa and has participated in The Lion King JR for two years now.
Amahle Mbonyana (Rafiki, 11)
Amahle admires Rafiki’s wisdom and power. She loves the supportive environment of the cast, where everyone is treated equally.
Divine Phiri (Timon, 12)
Divine enjoys how the cast works on scenes separately before seeing the entire production come together.
Zoe Mabalane (Rafiki, 11)
Zoe loves dancing, singing, and acting, and is excited to play Rafiki.
Holiday Plans
When asked about favorite holiday destinations:
- Jason would love to go camping in Kruger National Park.
- Simthandile prefers a beach picnic for its calming effect.
- Boikanyo and Amahle both enjoy the thrill of Gold Reef City.
- Divine likes hanging out at the mall, while Zoe enjoys the roller coasters there.
Favorite Eating Spots
For dining:
- Jason loves Luigi’s Pizzeria and a buffet at Yamakado.
- Simthandile recommends Little Addis for Ethiopian cuisine.
- Boikanyo enjoys Papachino’s for its kid-friendly options.
- Amahle and her family are sushi fans at Ocean Basket.
- Divine cherishes memories from Spur, and Zoe loves family dinners at home.
Showcasing Johannesburg
If they were lightning a visitor around Johannesburg:
- Jason would suggest Rietvlei Nature Reserve and Gold Reef City.
- Simthandile loves the indoor adventures at BeUp! and Zuney Burger Bar.
- Boikanyo would take them to see different theater shows.
- Amahle recommends the City Sightseeing bus and a visit to Mandela House.
- Divine would point out the Nelson Mandela Bridge.
- Zoe suggests Mzansi Theme Park for its views.
Character Insights
Imagining their characters in Johannesburg:
- Scar (Jason) would find the city full of “idiots.”
- Nala/Zazu (Simthandile) would note the pollution.
- Mufasa (Boikanyo) would compare Johannesburg’s noise to the Pride Lands at sunrise.
- Rafiki (Amahle) would be fascinated by the city’s technology.
- Timon (Divine) would see it as a “fixer upper” but appreciate the stadiums.
- Rafiki (Zoe) would find many friendly people and be awed by The Leonardo’s height.
Don’t Miss the Show!
Disney’s The Lion King JR is playing at the National Children’s Theatre in Parktown until July 19. Tickets start at R150 and can be purchased here.
