The unforgettable music of The Lion King will roar to life at Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on June 13, as Disney’s The Lion King Live In Concert brings the film to the big screen alongside a 72-piece orchestra performing its iconic score.
The production will be performed by the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) Malaysia, recognised and approved by Disney Concerts.
Eric Lee, resident conductor of the NSO Malaysia at Istana Budaya, said preparations for the production have been extensive, with rehearsals set to begin in June once the official scores are received, alongside strict guidelines to ensure the performance adheres to Disney’s global standards.
"We need to achieve perfect synchronisation, which is why Disney will send a technical director to guide us. They will first provide the original scores from the United States for early preparation, and the technical director will arrive in June to rehearse with the orchestra,” said Lee at a recent press conference in Kuala Lumpur.
He added that the concert promises a unique experience by combining film screening with a live orchestral performance, offering audiences a more immersive and impactful way to experience the Disney classic.
"Usually, when you watch a movie, the music stays in the background. But this time, audiences will see the musicians in action and hear the instruments live on stage. That’s what makes it special.
"With recorded music, you don’t get the same connection. In a live setting, you can feel the vibration and impact, which creates an instant connection, even without musical training,” said Lee.
It took nearly two years of discussions and negotiations between Kuala Lumpur-based Milestone Production and Disney to secure the rights to bring the concert to Malaysia. – Bernama
