Cast Insights: Voices of The Lion King JR
Jason Woollatt (Scar, 12)
As Scar, Jason relishes the challenge of embodying a villain, finding joy in making audiences both laugh and feel a little scared. He cherishes the friendships formed with fellow cast members, enhancing the collaboration that brings joy to their performances.
Simthandile Alie (Nala/Zazu, 11)
Returning for her third run, Simthandile values the learning experiences from different directors, noting improvements in her performance skills. She enjoys connecting with others, appreciating the unique talents each cast member brings to the production.
Boikanyo Lekasapa (Mufasa, 13)
Boikanyo is back as Mufasa for a second year, enjoying the powerful role and its ability to inspire others on stage.
Amahle Mbonyana (Rafiki, 11)
Finding Rafiki to be a wise and powerful figure, Amahle appreciates the supportive environment of the cast, where judgment is absent and everyone is equal.
Divine Phiri (Timon, 12)
Divine loves the process of working on scenes individually and then witnessing how they come together, emphasizing the joy of teamwork.
Zoe Mabalane (Rafiki, 11)
Zoe enjoys a mix of dancing, singing, and acting, expressing her excitement in portraying Rafiki.
Fun Outings and Favorite Places
When asked about ideal holiday destinations:
- Jason dreams of camping in Kruger National Park, drawn to nature.
- Simthandile would enjoy a beach picnic to unwind.
- Boikanyo prefers the thrill of Gold Reef City’s rides.
- Amahle agrees on Gold Reef City for more fun times with friends.
- Divine likes the familiar comfort of malls for people-watching.
- Zoe, too, is excited about the roller coasters at Gold Reef City.
Favorite Family Dining Spots
For special meals with family:
- Jason prefers his kitchen but also enjoys Luigi’s Pizzeria for its buffet.
- Simthandile loves Little Addis for Ethiopian cuisine.
- Boikanyo enjoys Papachino’s for its variety and kid-friendly atmosphere.
- Amahle favors Ocean Basket for sushi.
- Divine has cherished memories at Spur, especially from his birthday.
- Zoe enjoys the tradition of family dinner nights at home.
Touring Johannesburg
If showing someone around Johannesburg:
- Jason would highlight Rietvlei Nature Reserve for its beauty and wildlife.
- Simthandile suggests the indoor adventure park BeUp! for fun.
- Boikanyo would lead a theatre tour to experience the arts.
- Amahle recommends the City Sightseeing bus and Mandela House for history.
- Divine would take them to Nelson Mandela Bridge.
- Zoe suggests Mzansi Theme Park for great views.
Characters’ Impressions of Johannesburg
Imagining how their characters would perceive the city:
- Scar would likely mock the surroundings, calling the people “idiots.”
- Simthandile believes Nala would find it very polluted and noisy.
- Boikanyo thinks Mufasa would be struck by the loudness compared to the Pride Lands.
- Amahle feels Rafiki would marvel at modern technology.
- Divine envisions Timon calling Johannesburg a “fixer upper,” enjoyable for its vibrant energy.
- Zoe thinks Rafiki would appreciate the city’s friendly people and tall buildings like The Leonardo.
Catch the Show
Disney’s The Lion King JR runs at the National Children’s Theatre in Parktown until July 19. Tickets start at R150 and are available on Quicket.
