Disney today announced the principal performers that will lead THE LION KING cast when the global phenomenon returns to Australia next year.
Opening at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney from April 2026, THE LION KING is the world’s #1 musical and has been seen by more than 124 million world-wide.
Following a competitive audition process, this cast represents the very best talent from Australia, New Zealand and around the world, whose artistry will bring the beloved characters of this epic theatrical masterpiece to life. Returning to lead the cast as Rafiki will be Buyi Zama. Stepping into this iconic role for a third time here, having also played Rafiki in the 2003 and 2013 tours. Originally from South Africa, she loved performing here so much that Australia has now become her home. Zama has been part of THE LION KING around the world, including with productions in Australia, North America, China, London, and on Broadway.
Zama will be joined on stage by another alumni member of THE LION KING global family. New Zealander Nick Afoa made his theatre debut twelve years ago as Simba before going on to perform the role on London’s West End. Afoa will now return to play the next generation and continue the circle of life by stepping into the role of Mufasa.
Completing the principal cast will be a mix of new talent and familiar faces, including
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 over the past thirty years, following an impressive list of smash-hits that include recent national tours of Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Mary Poppins and Frozen. Now in its fourth decade as a theatrical producer, Disney Theatrical is headed by Managing Director Andrew Flatt and Executive Producer Anne Quart.
“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,” said Anne Quart, Executive Producer, Disney Theatrical Group. “Together with Julie Taymor we have assembled a thrilling cast, and we can’t wait to welcome new audiences, joining the 10 million our Disney Theatrical productions have entertained to date.”
Further casting information will be announced at a later date.
THE LION KING has been critically acclaimed around the world, with The New York Times proclaiming that ‘there is simply nothing else like it’. The previous 2013 Sydney season of THE LION KING was celebrated by both audiences and critics:
Tickets for Disney’s THE LION KING Sydney 2026 Season are now on sale via: thelionkingmusical.com.au. The Australian premiere of Disney’s THE LION KING is proudly supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.
ABOUT THE LION KING
Approaching 30 landmark years on Broadway, THE LION KING continues ascendant as one of the most popular stage musicals of all time. Since its premiere on November 13, 1997, 30 global productions have been seen by over 127 million people. Produced by
Disney Theatrical Group, under the direction of Andrew Flatt and Anne Quart, THE LION KING has made theatrical history with two productions worldwide running 20 or more years and three others running 25 or more years.
Performed over its lifetime in nine different languages (English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Dutch, Spanish, Mandarin and Portuguese), there are currently eight productions of THE LION KING around the world: Broadway, London, Paris, Hamburg, Madrid, Tokyo, Mexico City and on tour across North America. THE LION KING has played over 100 cities in 24 countries on every continent except Antarctica; its worldwide gross exceeds that of any film, Broadway show or other entertainment title in box office history.
THE LION KING won six 1998 Tony Awards®: Best Musical, Best Scenic Design
(Richard Hudson), Best Costume Design (Julie Taymor), Best Lighting Design
(Donald Holder), Best Choreography (Garth Fagan) and Best Direction of a Musical (Julie Taymor). THE LION KING has also earned more than 70 major arts awards including the 1998 NY Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical, the 1999 Grammy® for Best Musical Show Album, the 1999 Evening Standard Award for Theatrical Event of the Year and the 1999 Laurence Olivier Awards for Best Choreography and Best Costume Design.
Julie Taymor, who conceived and directed the production and is its costume designer and mask co-designer, was the first woman to win a Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical. She remains actively involved in the show, launching new productions and maintaining the flagship Broadway production.
The Broadway score features Elton John and Tim Rice’s songs from
THE LION KINGanimated film along with three new songs by John and Rice; additional musical material by South African Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin,
Julie Taymor and Hans Zimmer; and music from “Rhythm of the Pride Lands,” an album inspired by the original music in the film, written by Lebo M, Mark Mancina and Hans Zimmer. The resulting sound of THE LION KING is a fusion of Western popular music and the distinctive sounds and rhythms of Africa, ranging from the Academy Award®-winning song “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” to Lebo M’s rich choral numbers. Elton John, Lebo M and Hans Zimmer all collaborated on the 2019 version of the film, executive produced by Julie Taymor and Thomas Schumacher, which has gone onto extraordinary worldwide success.
The book has been adapted by Roger Allers, who co-directed the animated THE LION KING feature, and Irene Mecchi, who co-wrote the film’s screenplay.
The stage production was originally produced by Peter Schneider and
Thomas Schumacher. Other members of the creative team include: Michael Curry, who designed the masks and puppets with Taymor, Steve Canyon Kennedy (sound design), Michael Ward (hair and makeup design), David Kreppel and Sean Mayes (music supervisors), Anthony Lyn (associate director),
Marey Griffith (associate choreographer), Lisa Dawn Cave (production supervisor),
Thomas Schlenk (general manager), Robert Elhai (associate music producer), Michael Keller (music coordinator), Robert Elhai and David Metzger (orchestrators), Rick Sordelet (fight director) and ARC/Mark Brandon, CSA (casting).
BUYI ZAMA as RAFIKI
Buyi is no stranger to THE LION KING, having performed as Rafiki in Las Vegas, Taiwan, South Africa, Shanghai, Australia and the West End before moving to Broadway. For her role as Rafiki, she has won an Australian MO Award for Female Musical Performer and was nominated for an Australian Helpmann Award for Best Female in a Musical. Born in Durban (Kwa-Mashu), South Africa, Buyi began her performing career as a singer and backing vocalist in her home country. Her big break came when she auditioned somewhat unexpectedly for THE LION KING London production and was cast to understudy the role of Rafiki, which wasn’t long before she landed the role of Rafiki for an Australian tour. Buyi’s journey reflects her South African roots (she speaks Zulu, among other languages) and a love of travel and stage performance, having spent many years touring internationally with THE LION KING.
NICK AFOA as MUFASA
Nick Afoa is a New Zealand-Samoan actor and baritone who has recently completed the Australian tours of Miss Saigon as John and Rent as Collins. With an extensive theatrical background, he has held a long-term role in Australia, spent five years in London’s West End playing Simba in THE LION KING and recently performed, and directed in Pacifica the Musical. Afoa made his feature film debut in Mysterious Ways shot in New Zealand. In earlier years he represented New Zealand in rugby, securing a Junior Rugby World Cup title in South Africa.
BENN WELFORD as ZAZU
Benn Welford is a highly accomplished actor and voice artist with over 20 years of professional experience across stage, screen, and audio.
A graduate of NIDA (Bachelor of Dramatic Arts – Acting), Benn has worked extensively in Australia and overseas with some of the most respected theatre companies and producers, including Disney Theatrical Productions, Michael Cassel Group, Sydney Theatre Company, State Theatre Company South Australia, Griffin Theatre Company, and Theatre of Image. He has toured extensively with THE LION KING across Australia and internationally, performing a range of principal roles, including on London’s iconic West End.
On screen, Benn has featured in productions for ABC, Network Ten, Foxtel, Empire Pictures, and 20th Century Fox, with credits including Crownies, A Model Daughter: The Killing of Caroline Byrne, Whatever Happened to That Guy?, and X-Men Origins: Wolverine. He has also appeared in a wide range of national television commercials and short films. As a narrator and voice-over artist, Benn’s vocal work spans fiction, education, and commercial content. His narration credits include Spring Fling: Wine Country and Only the Weekend for Meet Cute on Apple Podcasts, as well as Scholastic’s audiobook A Guide to Falling Off the Map by Zanni L Arnot. He has also voiced campaigns for the NSW Department of Education and Training, AMES, and a diverse range of commercial clients.
JAMIE MCGREGOR as TIMON
Born in Wellington, New Zealand, Jamie trained at the New Zealand College of Performing Arts. He is best known to international audiences for his acclaimed portrayal of Timon in Disney’s THE LION KING, a role he has performed across the globe — including productions in Australia, Asia, and most recently, an impressive five-year run in London’s West End.
Jamie’s extensive theatre credits span a diverse range of productions, including Sweeney Todd (Downstage Theatre NZ), Blood Brothers (NZ Tour), Kids’ Stuff (Kids’ Stuff Theatre Company), Noises Off, Wind in the Willows (Circa Theatre NZ), The Schelling Point, Sydney Ghost Stories (Old Fitz), The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Melbourne Theatre Company), Jay’s Place (Sydney Theatre), and multiple international seasons of THE LION KING (Australia 2003–06, Singapore 2011, Australia 2013–16, International 2018–19 and London’s West End 2019–2024).
On screen, Jamie has appeared in The Tribe (BBC) and Home & Away (Seven Network). His work also includes motion capture performance for The Lord of the Rings with WETA Digital.
RUTENE SPOONER as PUMBAA
Rutene Spooner is a proud descendant of Ngāti Porou, Ngāruahine, and Ngāti Kahungunu tribes. After graduating with a Bachelor of Performing Arts in Musical Theatre in 2009, he has travelled the world, captivating audiences as a singer, actor, and entertainer.
His stage highlights include acclaimed productions such as the New Zealand premiere of Billy Elliot, the Australian tour of Jersey Boys, and standout performances in Chicago, Little Shop of Horrors (The Court Theatre), and the Australasian premiere of Jekyll & Hyde.
Rutene has also lent his voice to Disney Reo Māori films including Frozen, Coco, Encanto, and most recently as Kele in Moana 2.
His artistry has been recognised with the Grant Tilly Actor of the Year Award at the 2023 Wellington Theatre Awards and the 2025 VAC New Zealand Male Entertainer of the Year title.
Dubbed “a stalwart of the Auckland cabaret scene” by The New Zealand Herald, Rutene continues to charm audiences through works like Super Hugh-Man, Thoroughly Modern Māui, Be Like Billy?, and The Velvet Rebels. Beyond performing, he is a creative producer, documentary director, vocal coach, and proud kaihaka of Te Kapa Haka o Whāngara-MaiTawhiti and member of the Modern Māori Quartet.
APHIWE NYEZI as SIMBA
Aphiwe Nyezi is a performer from Cape Town, South Africa. He received training from Rainbow Arts Organization as well as Magnet Theatre Gang Intervention Program. Past theatre credits include: Autumn, Gomora and Sins of Others (R.A.O productions); Sprint of the Bosh (Zirosonic); 23 Years a Month and 7 Days (Magnet Theatre); Shut Up and Dance (Romantic). Past film, The Woman King (Sony pictures). Aphiwe has performed in Infecting the City (Institute for Creative Arts) and Cape Town Carnival. THE LION KING (International Tour, UK tour, West End and Toronto) @aphiwenyezi
EMILY NKOMO as NALA
Emily Nkomo is a Zimbabwean-Australian performer and singer-songwriter whose work spans musical theatre, film, and contemporary music. She made her professional stage debut in 2021 as Frankie Healy in the Australian production of Jagged Little Pill, performing alongside industry icons including Natalie Bassingthwaite and Tim Draxl.
She subsequently toured nationally for two years with
Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, performing as an Ikette and as an ensemble member. Emily’s theatre credits also include Little Fan in the Australian premiere of Jack Thorne’s adaptation of A Christmas Carol, starring David Wenham.
On screen, Emily’s credits continue to grow. She will appear as Lady Fyre in an upcoming Screen Australia–Bus Stop Films feature, further showcasing her versatility across mediums.
As a recording artist, Emily releases music under the moniker MASIZA. Her debut single ‘Care’ is available on all major streaming platforms, and she is currently developing her first EP, showcasing her distinctive vocal voice and artistry.
In 2022, Emily made history as the first Zimbabwean-Australian artist to perform the national anthem at the State of Origin kickoff. She is honoured to join the company of THE LION KING Australia in 2026, continuing to contribute to Australia’s vibrant performing arts landscape.
WINSTON HILLYER as BANZAI
Since graduating from the VCA in 2005 (Foundation year Musical Theatre), Winston has had a celebrated career in Europe and Australia. Immediately following VCA, Winston made his professional debut as Simba in the German Production of THE LION KING where he subsequently performed the role for over 1800 performances. Winston then went on to tour Europe playing Berger in Hair for 2 years, followed by Judah in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and as lead singer on board the Queen Elizabeth for Cunard Cruises.
Winston returned to Melbourne in 2014 and made his Australian debut with Showboat in 2014. He has continued his theatrical success performing in Dreamgirls and Black Rider. He has also appeared in Neighbours, House Husbands and many tv commercials.
Most recently Winston was a Standby on the Australian and International tours of Hamilton covering the roles of Aaron Burr, George Washington and Hercules Mulligan/James Madison.
Winston is thrilled to be returning to THE LION KING. He is looking forward to sharing this beautiful show with his own children.
Winston would like to thank his beautiful wife and his two children for their continued love and support. Winston is proudly represented by Ian White Management.
Winston is a proud MEAA member. Instagram @winstonHillyer
EZRA WILLIAMS as SHENZI
Ezra Williams is a powerhouse performer whose voice, movement, and presence light up every stage she steps onto. A 2023 Grand Finalist on The Voice Australia, Ezra’s artistry transcends genre — blending soulful vocals, dynamic dance, and magnetic storytelling.
In 2024, she thrilled audiences nationwide as the opening act for Jessica Mauboy’s Yours Forever Australian tour, performing across 23 sold-out shows. Her singles ‘Lonely’ and ‘Higher’ continue to showcase her evolving sound, following the chart success of ‘Blush’, which reached number seven on the Official New Zealand Music Chart.
Ezra’s theatre journey has seen her embody leading roles, including Venus in Pacifica the Musical, and tour with Madagascar the Musical. Her performances have graced grand stages from Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park to Miss Universe New Zealand, as well as halftime shows for international sporting events. Beyond the spotlight, Ezra is a dedicated mentor and educator, having taught Hip-Hop dance in New Zealand and judged on Vocal Fusion (Papua New Guinea) and WHATNOW (TVNZ). Whether on stage, or in song, Ezra continues to inspire with her energy, authenticity, and undeniable passion for performance.
MAT VEREVIS as ED
A 2012 graduate of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, Mat is best known for his performance as Barry Mann in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, which won him a 2018 Helpmann Award. Most recently, he has been seen in The Lovers by Laura Murphy as Lysander and in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical as Roger Davies, which earned him a Sydney Theatre Award nomination.
Other credits include Tommy in The Who’s Tommy (Victorian Opera), Tobias Ragg in
Sweeney Todd (State Opera South Australia, Victorian Opera and Sydney Opera House), Mark in RENT (SOH/Sugary Rum Productions), Lea Salonga’s Australian Tour, Henrik Egerman in A LittleNight Music (Victorian Opera), Christmas Actually (The Little Red Company), Lazarus
(The Production Company), backing vocals for the Hugh Jackman Australian Tour, There’s
Something About Music (The Little Red Company), Christmas, Actually (The Little Red Company), Torch Song Trilogy (Darlinghurst Theatre Company), The Voice Australia – Top 12 (Shine Network) and Down Under (RIOT film) directed by Abe Forsythe. His original EP is available on all streaming platforms.