Meet the Cast of The Lion King JR
Jason Woollatt – Scar (12)
Jason enjoys singing, acting, and making people laugh. Playing a villain lets him tackle a challenging role while having fun on stage. He loves bonding with the cast and seeing audiences smile—even when they’re a little frightened of Scar.
Simthandile Alie – Nala/Zazu (11)
This is Simthandile’s third time in the production. She appreciates learning new techniques from different directors, improving her posture, and using her hands like claws. Making friends and discovering what other kids excel at are highlights for her.
Boikanyo Lekasapa – Mufasa (13)
Boikanyo is returning for his second year as Mufasa. He values the chance to grow as a performer and to work alongside a supportive group.
Amahle Mbonyana – Rafiki (11)
Amahle likes Rafiki’s wisdom and strength. She feels accepted in the cast—no judgment, no competition for fame, and everyone treats each other as equals.
Divine Phiri – Timon (12)
Divine enjoyed breaking down each scene individually before seeing how everything fits together in the full show.
Zoe Mabalane – Rafiki (11)
Zoe loves dancing, singing, acting, and listening to music. Playing Rafiki lets her combine all of those passions.
What They Love About the Show
- Creative Challenges: Taking on roles like Scar or Mufasa pushes them to explore new acting techniques.
- Friendship: Rehearsals and performances create strong bonds that extend beyond the stage.
- Learning: Working with different directors helps them improve posture, movement, and confidence.
- Joy: Seeing audience reactions—whether laughter or a delighted gasp—makes the hard work worthwhile.
School Holiday Plans: Where They’d Go with Friends
- Jason: Camping in Kruger National Park to soak up nature.
- Simthandile: A beach picnic with friends, enjoying the calm seaside vibe.
- Boikanyo: Gold Reef City for the thrilling rides and a little adrenaline rush.
- Amahle: Gold Reef City again, because her friends love the rides and they can hang out together.
- Divine: A trip to the mall to walk around, people‑watch, and catch up with pals.
- Zoe: Gold Reef City’s roller coasters, drawn to the height and excitement.
Favorite Food Spots with Family
- Jason: Home kitchen for everyday meals; Luigi’s Pizzeria or Yamakado for a buffet of bao buns, spring rolls, and ice cream.
- Simthandile: Little Addis Ethiopian restaurant on 44 Stanley, plus the bakery nearby for treats.
- Boikanyo: Papachino’s—varied menu and a jungle gym for younger siblings.
- Amahle: Ocean Basket, where the whole family shares sushi.
- Divine: Trace, a place tied to happy memories from her 7th birthday.
- Zoe: At home, especially Friday family dinners.
Showing Visitors Around Johannesburg
- Jason: Rietvlei Nature Reserve for wildlife and scenery, plus a stop at Gold Reef City.
- Simthandile: BeUp! indoor adventure park in Cresta and Zuney Burger Bar at Nine Yards.
- Boikanyo: A theatre tour to see different shows, followed by group reviews.
- Amahle: City Sightseeing bus for an overview, Mandela House in Soweto for history, and Gold Reef City rides.
- Divine: The Nelson Mandela Bridge as a must‑see landmark.
- Zoe: Mzansi Theme Park for great city views from the slides.
If Their Characters Visited Johannesburg
- Jason (as Scar): “There are a lot of idiots here. I’m surrounded by idiots.”
- Simthandile (as Nala/Zazu): “Very dirty! Air polluted, garbage everywhere, and so much noise.”
- Boikanyo (as Mufasa): “Johannesburg is louder than the Pride Lands at sunrise, and the taxis feel like noisy wildebeests.”
- Amahle (as Rafiki): Fascinated by technology—she’d think a car is an evolved ostrich.
- Divine (as Timon): Calls Johannesburg a “fixer‑upper” and loves the stadiums for burning off energy.
- Zoe (as Rafiki): Notes the friendly people and admires the Leonardo building for its size and visibility.
Watch the Show
Disney’s The Lion King JR runs through July 19 at the National Children’s Theater in Parktown. Tickets start at R150 and are available via Quicket.
Conclusion
The young cast of The Lion King JR brings enthusiasm, teamwork, and a love for learning to every rehearsal and performance. Their favorite activities—whether exploring nature, enjoying rides, sharing meals, or showing off their city—reflect the same curiosity and joy they put on stage. If you’re looking for a fun, uplifting theater experience this summer, be sure to catch their production and see the talent shine.
