The Lion King musical
has just celebrated its first run in Brisbane, Australia.
The cast feature a number of Kiwis, including Maori.
Rapaera Tawhai went over to meet and greet cast members.
A world renowned production.
And its cast include a handful of Maori.
The Australian production of the Lion King
boasts five talented Maori in their ensemble,
some of them have over 10 years under their belt.
But there are new faces.
- How did you get involved?
I auditioned. That's it.
It was a long process to get a role in the production -
about six, seven months?
There were a lot of auditions.
They say their Maori heritage
played a big part in achieving this dream.
Every night they perform on stage in front of over 2000 people.
It's a passion.
They've just celebrated their first run in Brisbane.
But living apart from family can be tough.
The dream is to take the musical back home.
Even though they're stars on the stage,
they have their eyes on my job at Te Karere!
Lee Morunga and Toni Ann Stewart
in Brisbane, for Te Karere!
I don't think so, ladies!
In February the production moves on to Melbourne.
Rapaera Tawhai, Te Karere.