Reddford House Northcliff is marking its 10th anniversary in spectacular fashion, with more than 100 students from Grade 1 to Grade 12 coming together for the school’s biggest theatrical production yet – Disney’s The Lion King.
Running from 26 to 29 August, the production brings together young performers, musicians, dancers and creatives in a celebration of talent, teamwork and the school’s first decade. With months of preparation behind it, the show promises vibrant costumes, choreography and unforgettable music – while exploring themes of courage, leadership, resilience and legacy.
Through Simba’s search for courage, identity and his place in the Circle of Life, The Lion King explores themes of family, friendship, resilience, responsibility and hope. These themes hold particular significance as Reddford House Northcliff reflects on its first decade and looks towards the next chapter in the school’s story.
Director Dylan Niemand says the production is a fitting way to mark the milestone. “As we celebrate ten incredible years of Reddford House Northcliff, there could not be a more fitting production than The Lion King. The story embodies courage, unity, leadership and legacy – values that have helped define our school over the past decade.
The principal cast includes Qhawe Zikalala as Young Simba, Kay Phumo as Young Nala, Haalebalwe Shole-Mashao as Adult Simba and Daisy Phuthi as Adult Nala. They are joined by Khanyisa Ngidi as Rafiki, James Keegan as Scar, Menzi Tshabalala as Mufasa, Abongwe Mofokeng as Timon and Oliver Waldhausen as Pumbaa. Ayanda Sigaba, Kemong Llale and Kabelo Mokoena take on the roles of Shenzi, Banzai and Kali respectively.
Niemand leads the creative team alongside co-director Nanza Platana, choreographer Felicia Mrwebi, music director Kate Lawless and costume designer Jacorie Viljoen. Carmen Kabeya and Lisa Bothma are responsible for the production’s props and animal costumes, helping to transform the Dr Ronel Burger Auditorium into the vibrant Pride Lands.
More than a school production, The Lion King will celebrate a decade of educational and artistic achievement, as well as the students, families and staff who have shaped the Reddford House Northcliff community.
Performances will take place at the Dr Ronel Burger Auditorium at Reddford House Northcliff in Johannesburg. A schools-only matinee will be staged on Wednesday, 26 August, followed by public performances at 18:30 on Thursday, 27 August; Friday, 28 August; and Saturday, 29 August. The Saturday evening performance will be a special gala performance.
The production is suitable for the whole family and runs for approximately 120 minutes, including a 20-minute interval. Doors open 30 minutes before each performance.
Tickets range from R100 to R130 and can be booked through Quicket.
For more information, visit https://inspirededu.com/our-schools/ and click on Africa & Middle East link.
