Based on the 1994 animated film with the same title, Disney’s “The Lion King” comes alive like nothing seen before. The theatrical experience that has been performed over 100 million times around the world arrives in Orange County. The spectacular contains the heart of the film but also includes new music from Elton John and Tim Rice. The two-hour stage adaption based on the film includes never-before-seen animal puppetry, crispy lighting, unbelievable costumes, and pure magic.

The tour stage production continues to spread its own pixie dust around the world, as Disney showcases the same exact production that continues to be preserved on Broadway. As influential as the film is, the musical helps the storytelling of the original material become more powerful. The musical focuses on cultural significance and impact in an artistic medium. From the opening lyric which Rafiki sings “Nants ingonyama bagithi baba” the artistry becomes a sign of affection as it showcases African traditions, traditional African masks, puppetry, and sounds. Disney paid attention carefully and delivered an immersing experience where Pride Rock is more beautiful than it’s ever been. Disney also uses the stage adaptation to showcase diversity, as it includes actors from all ethnic backgrounds. Intermission begins after “Hakuna Matata” but does not include a spectacular act one finale that we are used by Disney theatricals productions.

The whole cast does impressive work portraying the beloved characters from the film to stage, but a few actors have a cherry on top in their performance. Peter Hargrave as Scar exceeds in his puppetry. In his technique, he showcases a side of Scar we do not see in the film. Hargrave makes Scar devilish and cynical with his body movement and wickedly good voice. Nick Cordileone as Timon steals the spotlight more than John E. Brady as Pumbaa. Brady gets lost throughout the material and is forgettable. Timon is given more content to work with. Both actors are great, but Brady’s performance is underwhelming. Cordileone, who takes risks, uses Timon’s puppetry to more lively. He is more animated, which helps him soar high.

Disney’s “The Lion King” is captivating. It’s mesmeric at full length, illustrating perfection. Hakuna Matata!, because you won’t have any worries for days after seeing a masterpiece.

Disney’s “The Lion King plays until February 25th at Segerstrom Center for the Arts.