the mommy avenger

I just have to say it — Disney’s The Lion King on stage is pure, heart-thumping, goosebump-inducing magic. We got the chance to see the Broadway tour at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, and I’m still humming “Circle of Life” days later. From the opening note to the final bow, this show is everything you hope live theater will be — breathtaking, emotional, and so visually stunning that you almost forget you’re sitting in a theater.

Running now through November 16 at the Buell Theater, The Lion King tells the classic story we all know and love — Simba, the young lion destined to be king, who must find his courage and place in the circle of life after tragedy strikes. The story has been part of my heart since childhood, but seeing it unfold live on stage added a whole new layer of wonder. You feel every emotion, every drumbeat, every shimmering ray of light from the savanna as if you’re right there alongside Simba and Nala.

What sets this production apart is the artistry. The costumes and puppetry are jaw-dropping — intricate, layered, and impossibly creative. You don’t just see people on stage; you see the essence of animals brought to life through movement, fabric, and rhythm. Antelopes leap, elephants parade down the aisles, and the lions command the stage with regal grace. It’s the kind of visual storytelling that makes you forget how it’s even being done. Somehow, through pure stagecraft, the entire theater transforms into the African plains — glowing sunsets, golden grasslands, and starry nights that make you catch your breath. It’s not just a show; it’s an experience.

For families, this is the perfect introduction to Broadway. The story is familiar enough for little ones to follow, the pacing keeps them engaged, and the music — oh, the music — is unforgettable. Songs like “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” “Hakuna Matata,” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” fill the space with energy and nostalgia all at once. I could see kids were wide-eyed from start to finish, completely captivated. But make no mistake — even seasoned theatergoers who have seen dozens of productions will find this one absolutely spectacular. The craftsmanship, choreography, and sheer power of the performance are unmatched.

And can we talk about the Buell Theater for a moment? It’s the perfect setting for a night like this — elegant, inviting, and beautifully designed to make every seat feel like a great one. There’s something about walking into that grand lobby, dressed up a little extra, and knowing you’re about to witness something special. It turns an ordinary evening into a full experience — one that feels celebratory, classy, and just the right amount of fancy for families or date night alike.

If you’ve ever wanted to share Broadway magic with your kids, or if you’re simply craving a night that makes you feel something, this is your moment. The Lion King is playing for a limited run through November 16 at the Buell Theatre, and tickets can be purchased through the Denver Center for the Performing Arts at denvercenter.org. Don’t wait too long — this is one of those shows that sells out quickly, and for good reason.

As we walked out of the theater, I couldn’t stop talking about my favorite scenes, in fact, no one could. That’s the thing about The Lion King — it doesn’t just tell a story. It wraps you up in it. It’s joy, heartbreak, hope, and triumph all rolled into one unforgettable evening. This is Broadway at its best — and I can’t recommend it enough.

^{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*}