The principal performers taking to the stage for ‘The Lion King’ in Sydney have been revealed ahead of the 2026 season.
Opening at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre, ‘The Lion King’ is the world’s #1 musical, seen by more than 124 million people worldwide.
The principal cast arrives after a competitive audition process, representing the very best talent from Australia, New Zealand, and around the world.
Returning to lead the cast, as Rafiki, will be Buyi Zama. This is Buyi’s third time playing the role (she played it in 2003 and 2013). Originally from South Africa, Buyi loved performing here so much that Australia has now become her home.
Buyi will be joined by another ‘The Lion King’ alumni member, New Zealander Nick Afoa. He made his theatre debut 12 years ago as Simba, before going on to perform the role on London’s West End. He’ll now return, continuing the circle of life, by stepping into the role of Mufasa.
Completing the principal cast will be a mix of new talents, and familiar faces. These include Benn Welford (Australia) as Zazu, Jamie McGregor (Aotearoa/New Zealand) as Timon, Rutene Spooner (Aotearoa/New Zealand) as Pumbaa, Aphiwe Nyezi (South Africa) as Simba, Emily Nkomo (Zimbabwe/Australia) as Nala, Winston Hillyer (Philippines/ Aotearoa/New Zealand) as Banzai, Ezra Williams (Australia) as Shenzi and Mat Verevis (Australia) as Ed.
’The Lion King’ will be the ninth production from Disney Theatrical Group to play in Sydney, in the past thirty years. Other recent national tours include ‘Beauty And The Beast’, ‘Aladdin’, ‘Mary Poppins’ and ‘Frozen’.
“We are thrilled that ‘The Lion King’ is returning to Australia with a world class group of artists to once again engage with your wonderfully welcoming audiences,” Disney Theatrical Group Executive Producer Anne Quart says. “Together with Julie Taymor we have assembled a thrilling cast, and we can’t wait to welcome new audiences, joining the ten million our Disney Theatrical productions have entertained to date.”
’The Lion King’ plays Capitol Theatre (Sydney) from April 2026.
