Young performers set to begin 8-show run of ‘Disney’s Lion King Jr.’ in Merced
The Playhouse Merced Conservatory’s production of “Disney’s The Lion King Jr.” opens with the first of eight showings on Thursday night.
Adapted from the iconic animated film and Broadway musical, the production will showcase members of the Young Artists Conservatory program at Playhouse Merced.
The program provides students ages 8–17 with hands-on training in acting, singing and movement through a fully staged production, according to a news release.
Over the course of several weeks, performers work to develop their skills while building confidence, discipline and teamwork, the news release said.
“Disney’s The Lion King Jr.,” directed by Rose Pino, runs through July 26. Musical direction is by Zak Dimpel-Alvarez and choreography is by Lacey Spielman, Jessica Cromar and Rhyse Marshall. Costumers Marcelle Griffen and Coen Taylor and set builders Nathan Cabral and Josh Mensing create an environment that will immerse audiences, the news release said.
“This is a show that resonates across generations and the entire cast and crew poured their hearts into it,” said Pino. “It’s exciting to see our young performers and volunteers take on such an iconic story and make it their own. We’re proud to share that experience with our community.”
“Disney’s The Lion King Jr.” runs for two weeks at Playhouse Merced, which is at 452 W. Main St. Show times are 7 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. The production is Playhouse Merced’s 2025–26 season finale.
Tickets are available through the Playhouse Merced box office and online at www.playhousemerced.com.
This story was originally published July 14, 2026 at 2:05 PM.
