Disney's Broadway show, The Lion King, is one of the most incredible shows ever to have graced the Great White Way. The play, which is based on the Disney movie of the same name, has been a successfully turned into an on-stage musical. The cartoon lions and other animals of the jungle have been transformed into wildly imaginative puppets. Puppeteers are actually actors in the musical. They are visible, wearing the animals, controlling them for all the audience to see.

This broadway musical has been running for almost twelve years. Now is a great time to see it, as you can find discount Lion King tickets easily. If you have previously seen the show, there is no reason not to see it again. Just like in the Hamlet-based movie, the play opens with the show-stopping song, Circle of Life.

Everyone knows the tale of the now-famous Disney movie. Simba, the young prince of the Sahara, is convinced by Scar, his uncle, that he is responsible for his own father's death. Simba is so scarred that he runs away. In reality, Scar wanted to take over the pride. Soon thereafter, Simba leaves the pride. He runs into the two people who become his best friends - Timon, a meerkat, and Pumbaa - a warthog (and the first Disney character ever to fart on screen). They teach the young, impressionable lad, life's most important lesson: "Hakuna Matata" (it means no worries). Pumbaa and Timon are the movie's most cute and funny creatures, and the stage isn't much different. Timon and Pumbaa are the shows most loveable trouble makers. They are endearing and provide great comical relief.

If you can get cheap Lion King tickets, definitely go and see it. But make sure to plan ahead. Tickets are hard to get. The beauty of the Lion King is that it's a show for kids and adults alike. You will love the show, and your kids may love it even more. Julie Taymor has managed to transform a straight forward movie into an out of this world, dazzling experience. Her use of costuming and puppetry is revolutionary and ground breaking. The Lion King has a cast of 46 and features more than 100 puppets, some of which are more than 20 feet tall.

Not to mention, the music is amazing. Don't forget the music! Featuring most of the familiar songs from the movie, there are three full new songs added to the mix by writers Elton John and Tim Rice. The pop stylings of "Hakuna Matata" and "Circle of Life" are successfully blended with more traditional, African rhythms. The composer Lebo M has contributed emotionally charged rhythmic chants to the show.

In '98, this Hamlet-based narrative won a Tony for best new musical. 12 years since, the show continues to be performed in front of sold out audiences. Even for those who have seen the movie a million times, while the musical's story will be familiar, the show is such an incredible spectacle, you won't regret spending the money.