The Lion King roars in to Brisbane in September

The world’s most popular stage musical is coming to Queensland with Premier Campbell Newman announcing The Lion King will hit the boards at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) in September 2014.

The Premier said securing the production was a coup for QPAC and a great opportunity for locals and visitors to enjoy world-class musical theatre.

“The Lion King musical is the highest-grossing Broadway show in history and has been seen by more than 70 million people around the world,” Mr Newman said.

“So I’m delighted to announce that it will come to QPAC’s Lyric Theatre from September this year.”

“The Government works hard to make sure we attract the world’s best arts and cultural events.  Securing The Lion King is yet another example of the world-class entertainment on show in Queensland.

“Musicals are among QPAC’s most popular shows, attracting about 40 per cent of all visitors.

“The response when Disney’s Mary Poppins premiered here in 2012 was extraordinary, and I’m sure Queenslanders will be just as keen to see The Lion King when they get the opportunity.

“This production will give people another great reason to visit our beautiful city and enjoy all it has to offer, including our amazing cultural life.”

Arts Minister Ian Walker said that large-scale musicals like The Lion King played a role in delivering on the Queensland Government’s Arts for all Queenslanders strategy, with benefits to the state’s culture and economy.

“QPAC attracts the world’s best productions and makes a major contribution to the local economy through cultural tourism,” Mr Walker said.

“Our goal is to double annual overnight visitor expenditure from $15 billion in 2010 to $30 billion by 2020, and The Lion King will undoubtedly attract people in their thousands.

General public ticket release commences Friday 4 April 2014.

Tickets available from QPAC on 136 246 or at www.lionking.com.au

[ENDS] 31 March 2014

Media Contact:

Premier’s office                       Mitch Grayson                        0409 284 356

Minister Walker’s office         Alexandria Bernard                0417 252 563