SSO World Premiere of Disney’s The Lion King Live in Concert

It’s hard to believe it’s been 30 years since Disney’s smash hit introduced families to the story of Simba and his journey to become king in theatres. Now, three decades later, the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra will celebrate with the world premiere of Disney’s The Lion King Live in Concert January 27th.

“I was shocked when they called me a few days later and said, ‘Yes! We want to do it.”

This is the first time the movie has been shown in a live to film experience and it all came about at the persistence of SSO CEO and creative producer Mark Turner.

“I have wanted to do The Lion King for a very long time, really from the beginning of these live to concert film experiences,” says Turner. “I thought it was a long-shot when I asked Disney because they hadn’t done The Lion King in this way before. I was shocked when they called me a few days later and said, ‘Yes! We want to do it and we want the first time it’s performed to be in Saskatoon.’”

“I’m very honoured to be leading the live premiere.”

Karl Hirzer will lead the performance of his childhood favourite. (Harder Lee Photography)

For those who aren’t familiar, the live in concert experience is one that pairs the film we all know and love projected on a screen behind the orchestra as they perform the score. It’s become a “must see” for many families and a way to introduce a new generation to orchestral music. The orchestra will be led by one of Canada’s most celebrated young conductors Karl Hirzer.

“I was probably five when it came out. The Lion King is one of my all- time favourite movies,” says Hirzer. “I’m very honoured to be leading the live premiere.”

For the first time, the SSO is adding a matinee to its evening performance schedule for those parents worried about a late night.

“It means that parents can bring their young families and not worry about keeping the littlest ones away past intermission,” says Turner. “The music is incredible, Zimmer’s iconic score, the comedic moments within the film, it’s all going to make for a concert all ages can enjoy together.”