The Lion King: Clifton Oliver plays Simba

Clifton Oliver joins the cast of Walt Disney's Broadway production of The Lion King on 13 May 2011, assuming the role f 'Simba' from Dashaun Young.

Clifton Oliver originated the role of 'Simba 'in the Las Vegas production of The Lion King at Mandalay Bay (2009) and the Los Angeles production at the Pantages Theater (2000) and performed as 'Simba' on the first national tour.

Oliver has starred on Broadway as 'Benny' (opposite Jordin Sparks) in 'In the Heights' and as 'Fiyero' in 'Wicked' and appeared in the Los Angeles company of 'Ragtime.' Oliver's Off-Broadway credits include 'Wig Out' and 'Miracle Brothers' (Vineyard Theatre). Touring productions include 'Benny' in 'Rent' (Australia) and 'Teen Angel' in 'Grease' (second national). Television includes a guest starring role as Mad Hoops on "Law & Order: Criminal Intent."

Oliver joins existing cast members Gareth Saxe (Scar), Alton Fitzgerald White (Mufasa), Tshidi Manye (Rafiki), Cameron Pow (Zazu), Tom Allen Robbiuns (Pumbaa), Fred Berman (Timon), Chauntee Schuler (Nala), James Brown-Orleans (Banzai), Bonita J. Hamilton (Shenzi) and Enrique Segura (Ed). The cast also features Alphonso Romero Jones II and Judah Bellamy (Young Simba), and Khail Toi Bryant and Shaylin Becton (Young Nala).

The musical, directed by Julie Taymor and choreographed by Garth Fagan, opened at the New Amsterdam Theatre on 13 Nov 1997, following previews from 15 Oct. On the 13 Jun 2006 the musical moved to the Minskoff Theatre.

The musical tells the story of the epic adventures of a young lion cub named Simba as he struggles to accept the responsibilities of adulthood and his destined role as king.

Director Julie Taymor became the first woman in Broadway history to win the Tony Award for Best Director of a Musical.

The Lion King has book by Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi, music by Elton John, with additional music by Hans Zimmer, Lebo M, Mark Mancina, and Jay Rifkin, and lyrics by Tim Rice.

The creative team for The Lion King features Richard Hudson (sets), Michael Curry (costumes), Donald Holder (lighting) and Steve Canyon Kennedy (sound).

The Lion King won six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and is the 8th longest-running musical on Broadway, surpassing the record previously held by 'Rent.'