'The Lion King' in Spanish heads to Madrid

[March 05, 2011]  NEW YORK (AP) -- "El Rey Leon" is on its way to Spain.

Disney Theatrical Productions announced Friday that the first Spanish-language version of "The Lion King" will make its debut in October in Madrid.

The show, which has seven productions now running across the world, has previously been translated into Japanese, German, Korean, French, Dutch and Mandarin.

Since its 1997 Broadway premiere under the direction of Julie Taymor, 18 global productions of the musical have been seen by more than 54 million people, grossing over $4.2 billion.

The version in Madrid will be the largest stage musical ever presented in Spain. It opens Oct. 21 at Lope de Vega Theatre on Madrid's Gran Via.

The musical, based on the animated film, features music by Elton John and Tim Rice.

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Online:

http://www.LionKing.com/

[Associated Press]

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