Cast and Creative

Daniel Frederiksen studied at NIDA and is a founding member of Red Stitch Theatre Company.

His theatre credits include Shakespeare in Love, As You Like It, The Lady in The Van, Abigail’s Party, Dean Man’s Cell Phone, Rockabye, Realism, Don Juan in Soho, Cheech or The Chrysler Guys Are In Town and Measure for Measure (Melbourne Theatre Company), Matilda The Musical (Royal Shakespeare Company), The Good Person of Szechwan (Malthouse), Julius Ceasar (Bell Shakespeare), Robot VS Art (La Mama), Ruben Guthrie, Fat Boy, The Day Room and The Shape of Things (Red Stitch) and A Christmas Carol (GWB Entertainment).

Daniel’s television credits include Exposure, Upright, Fires, Joe vs. Carole, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, Underbelly “Squizzy Taylor”, Underground, Bastard Boys, Stingers, Blue Heelers, Mermaids and feature films The Dry, Vessel, Summer Coda, Closed for Winter, Ten Empty and Ghost Rider.

Daniel’s accolades include the Helpmann Award for Best Male Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical for Matilda The Musical, an AFI Award nomination for Best Lead Actor in a Television Drama for Bastard Boys, and a Logie Nomination for Best New Talent for Stingers.

Buyi is no stranger to Disney’s THE LION KING, having performed as Rafiki in Las Vegas, Taiwan, South Africa, Shanghai, Australia and the West End before moving to Broadway. For her role as Rafiki, she has won an Australian MO Award for Female Musical Performer and was nominated for an Australian Helpmann Award for Best Female in a Musical. 

Born in Durban (Kwa-Mashu), South Africa, Buyi began her performing career as a singer and backing vocalist in her home country. Her big break came when she auditioned somewhat unexpectedly for Disney’s THE LION KING London production and was cast to understudy the role of Rafiki, which wasn’t long before she landed the role of Rafiki for an Australian tour. 

Buyi’s journey reflects her South African roots (she speaks Zulu, among other languages) and a love of travel and stage performance, having spent many years touring internationally with Disney’s THE LION KING.  

Nick Afoa is a New Zealand-Samoan actor and baritone who has recently completed the Australian tours of Miss Saigon as John and RENT as Collins.  With an extensive theatrical background, he has held a long-term role in Australia, spent five years in London’s West End playing Simba in Disney’s THE LION KING and recently performed, and directed in Pacifica the Musical. Afoa made his feature film debut in Mysterious Ways shot in New Zealand. In earlier years he represented New Zealand in rugby, securing a Junior Rugby World Cup title in South Africa. 

Benn Welford is a highly accomplished actor and voice artist with over 20 years of professional experience across stage, screen, and audio.

A graduate of NIDA (Bachelor of Dramatic Arts – Acting), Benn has worked extensively in Australia and overseas with some of the most respected theatre companies and producers, including Disney Theatrical Group, Michael Cassel Group, Sydney Theatre Company, State Theatre Company South Australia, Griffin Theatre Company, and Theatre of Image. He has toured extensively with Disney’s THE LION KING across Australia and internationally, performing a range of principal roles, including on London’s iconic West End.

On screen, Benn has featured in productions for ABC, Network Ten, Foxtel, Empire Pictures, and 20th Century Fox, with credits including Crownies, A Model Daughter: The Killing of Caroline Byrne, Whatever Happened to That Guy?, and X-Men Origins: Wolverine. He has also appeared in a wide range of national television commercials and short films.

As a narrator and voice-over artist, Benn’s vocal work spans fiction, education, and commercial content. His narration credits include Spring Fling: Wine Country and Only the Weekend for Meet Cute on Apple Podcasts, as well as Scholastic’s audiobook A Guide to Falling Off the Map by Zanni L Arnot. He has also voiced campaigns for the NSW Department of Education and Training, AMES, and a diverse range of commercial clients.

Born in Wellington, New Zealand, Jamie trained at the New Zealand College of Performing Arts. He is best known to international audiences for his acclaimed portrayal of Timon in Disney’s THE LION KING, a role he has performed across the globe — including productions in Australia, Asia, and most recently, an impressive five-year run in London’s West End.

Jamie’s extensive theatre credits span a diverse range of productions, including Sweeney Todd (Downstage Theatre NZ), Blood Brothers (NZ Tour), Kids’ Stuff (Kids’ Stuff Theatre Company), Noises Off, Wind in the Willows (Circa Theatre NZ), The Schelling Point, Sydney Ghost Stories (Old Fitz), The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Melbourne Theatre Company), Jay’s Place (Sydney Theatre), and multiple international seasons of Disney’s THE LION KING (Australia 2003–06, Singapore 2011, Australia 2013–16, International 2018-19 and London’s West End 2019–2024).

On screen, Jamie has appeared in The Tribe (BBC) and Home & Away (Seven Network). His work also includes motion capture performance for The Lord of the Rings with WETA Digital.

Rutene Spooner is a proud descendant of Ngāti Porou, Ngāruahine, and Ngāti Kahungunu tribes. After graduating with a Bachelor of Performing Arts in Musical Theatre in 2009, he has travelled the world, captivating audiences as a singer, actor, and entertainer.

His stage highlights include acclaimed productions such as the New Zealand premiere of Billy Elliot, the Australian tour of Jersey Boys, and standout performances in Chicago, Little Shop of Horrors (The Court Theatre), and the Australasian premiere of Jekyll & Hyde.

Rutene has also lent his voice to Disney Reo Māori films including Frozen, Coco, Encanto, and most recently as Kele in Moana 2. As a soloist, he has performed with the Auckland Philharmonia, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra Wellington, and the New Zealand String Quartet.

His artistry has been recognised with the Grant Tilly Actor of the Year Award at the 2023 Wellington Theatre Awards and the 2025 VAC New Zealand Male Entertainer of the Year title.

Dubbed “a stalwart of the Auckland cabaret scene” by The New Zealand Herald, Rutene continues to charm audiences through works like Super Hugh-Man, Thoroughly Modern Māui, Be Like Billy? and The Velvet Rebels.

Beyond performing, he is a creative producer, documentary director, vocal coach, and proud kaihaka of Te Kapa Haka o Whāngara-Mai-Tawhiti and member of the Modern Māori Quartet.

Aphiwe Nyezi is a performer from Cape Town, South Africa. He received training from Rainbow Arts Organization as well as Magnet Theatre Gang Intervention Program. Past theatre and performance credits include Autumn, Gomora and Sins of Others (R.A.O productions), Sprint of the Bosh (Zirosonic), 23 Years a Month and 7 Days (Magnet Theatre), Shut Up and Dance (Romantic), Infecting the City (Institute for Creative Arts), Cape Town Carnival and Disney’s THE LION KING (International Tour, UK tour, West End and Toronto). Film credits include The Woman King (Sony pictures).

You can find him on Instagram at @aphiwenyezi

Emily Nkomo is a Zimbabwean-Australian performer and singer-songwriter whose work spans musical theatre, film, and contemporary music. She made her professional stage debut in 2021 as Frankie Healy in the Australian production of Jagged Little Pill, performing alongside industry icons including Natalie Bassingthwaite and Tim Draxl.

She subsequently toured nationally for two years with Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, performing as an Ikette and as an ensemble member. Emily’s theatre credits also include Little Fan in the Australian premiere of Jack Thorne’s adaptation of A Christmas Carol, starring David Wenham.

On screen, Emily’s credits continue to grow. She will appear as Lady Fyre in an upcoming Screen Australia–Bus Stop Films feature, further showcasing her versatility across mediums.

As a recording artist, Emily releases music under the moniker MASIZA. Her debut single “Care” is available on all major streaming platforms, and she is currently developing her first EP, showcasing her distinctive vocal voice and artistry.

In 2022, Emily made history as the first Zimbabwean-Australian artist to perform the national anthem at the State of Origin kickoff. She is honoured to join the company of Disney’s THE LION KING Australia in 2026, continuing to contribute to Australia’s vibrant performing arts landscape.

Since graduating from the VCA in 2005 (Foundation year Musical Theatre), Winston has had a celebrated career in Europe and Australia. Immediately following VCA, Winston made his professional debut as Simba in the German Production of Disney’s THE LION KING where he subsequently performed the role for over 1800 performances. Winston then went on to tour Europe playing Berger in Hair for 2 years, followed by Judah in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and as lead singer on board the Queen Elizabeth for Cunard Cruises.

Winston returned to Melbourne in 2014 and made his Australian debut with Showboat in 2014. He has continued his theatrical success performing in Dreamgirls and Black Rider. He has also appeared in Neighbours, House Husbands and many tv commercials.

Most recently Winston was a Standby on the Australian and International tours of Hamilton covering the roles of Aaron Burr, George Washington and Hercules Mulligan/James Madison.

Winston is thrilled to be returning to Disney’s THE LION KING. He is looking forward to sharing this beautiful show with his own children.

Winston would like to thank his beautiful Wife and his two children for their continued love and support. Winston is proudly represented by Ian White Management.

Winston is a proud MEAA member. Follow him on Instagram at @winstonHillyer

Ezra Williams is a powerhouse performer whose voice, movement, and presence light up every stage she steps onto. A 2023 Grand Finalist on The Voice Australia, Ezra’s artistry transcends genre — blending soulful vocals, dynamic dance, and magnetic storytelling.

In 2024, she thrilled audiences nationwide as the opening act for Jessica Mauboy’s Yours Forever Australian tour, performing across 23 sold-out shows. Her singles Lonely and Higher continue to showcase her evolving sound, following the chart success of Blush, which reached number seven on the Official New Zealand Music Chart.

Ezra’s theatre journey has seen her embody leading roles, including Venus in Pacifica the Musical, and tour with Madagascar the Musical. Her performances have graced grand stages from Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park to Miss Universe New Zealand, as well as halftime shows for international sporting events.

Beyond the spotlight, Ezra is a dedicated mentor and educator, having taught Hip-Hop dance in New Zealand and judged on Vocal Fusion (Papua New Guinea) and WHATNOW (TVNZ). Whether on stage, or in song, Ezra continues to inspire with her energy, authenticity, and undeniable passion for performance.

A 2012 graduate of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, Mat is best known for his performance as Barry Mann in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, which won him a 2018 Helpmann Award. Most recently, he has been seen in The Lovers by Laura Murphy as Lysander and in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical as Roger Davies, which earned him a Sydney Theatre Award nomination.

Other credits include Tommy in The Who’s Tommy (Victorian Opera), Tobias Ragg in Sweeney Todd (State Opera South Australia, Victorian Opera and Sydney Opera House), Mark in RENT (SOH/Sugary Rum Productions), Lea Salonga’s Australian Tour, Henrik Egerman in A Little Night Music (Victorian Opera), Lazarus (The Production Company), backing vocals for the Hugh Jackman Australian Tour, There’s Something About Music (The Little Red Company), Christmas, Actually (The Little Red Company), Torch Song Trilogy (Darlinghurst Theatre Company), The Voice Australia – Top 12 (Shine Network) and Down Under (RIOT film) directed by Abe Forsythe. His original EP is available on all streaming platforms.

Born into a musical family, Jared has been immersed in the performing arts from the beginning, training at his mother’s studio, Dance Stream Victoria. Most recently, he performed as Chip in Beauty and the Beast (Disney Theatrical Productions), touring Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. His credits also include The Weekly with Charlie Pickering, Melbourne Theatre Company’s Girls & Boys and TV commercials for The Natural Confectionery Company and Kmart. Outside performing, Jared enjoys basketball, soccer, gaming and creating his own jokes. He is thrilled to be performing as Young Simba in Disney’s THE LION KING and thanks Disney, MP Talent, Dance Stream Victoria (including Rebecca Bickerton and Tamara Lay), his vocal coach (Nathan Lay), his school, friends and family for their support.

The role of Young Simba in Disney’s THE LION KING follows a successful run in professional music theatre for twelve-year-old Christopher.  He played the role of Chip in the recent Sydney season of Beauty and the Beast (Disney Theatrical Group) and most recently the role of Gavroche in the Australian tour of Les Miserables (Live Nation).  Just a few of Christopher’s television credits include Kid Crew Dance, Carols by Candlelight, Lego TVC, When we Dance Together(EMMA MEMMA) and Baby Shark Ballet (YouTube).

Chris trains in all forms of dance and music theatre with All Starz Performing Arts Studio. Christopher is proudly represented by Jenni Anderson Management.

Ten-year-old Chloe is thrilled to be making her professional music theatre debut as Young Nala in Disney’s THE LION KING. Chloe’s other credits include Cosette in Les Miserables (Packemin Productions 2023) and recently the guest role of Angel in NCIS: Sydney (Paramount).  Her vocal coach is Yasmin Arkinstall and she attends The Actors Division for acting workshops and classes. Chloe also trains in RAD ballet, jazz and tap with Halloran School of Dance. Chloe is proudly represented by Jenni Anderson Management 

Dev is an accomplished performer across acting, singing, dancing, and cello. He has appeared in numerous advertising campaigns including Rebel Sport, Woolworths, Real Insurance, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales, showcasing his versatility across stage and screen. His theatre work includes Il Trittico (Opera Australia) and the role of Young Guido in Nine (NIDA).

Dev is honoured to step into the role of Young Simba in Disney’s THE LION KING and is grateful for the love and support of his family.

Myarissa began her training at the age of four at the Melbourne Academy of Performing Arts (MAPA). She loves sharing her joy of performance and making people smile. She has appeared on stage with rock legends KISS at The AFL Grand Final Pre-Show Entertainment (Mushroom Events), along with performances in the Moomba Parade (City of Melbourne) and at the Melbourne Royal Show. At just 9 years old, Myarissa is proud to be making her musical theatre debut as Young Nala in Disney’s THE LION KING. She would like to thank her parents and her teachers for supporting her every step of the way.

Caleb is a 10-year-old performer making his second professional theatre appearance. He previously performed as Sorrow in the Australian Opera’s staging of Puccini’s Madama Butterfly (2023).

Caleb also works as a model and actor, having appeared in several television commercials and fashion shoots. He would like to thank everyone who has supported him in his young journey as a performer.

Wilhemina is a distinctive young performer with a natural stage presence. She is the daughter of Canadian Olympic gymnast and Cirque du Soleil acrobat and performer Stella Umeh. Her love for musical theatre began as an ensemble orphan in Oliver! (Hunter Drama), followed by her first-ever lead role as Molly in Annie (Chookas Entertainment), a moment that truly ignited her passion for the stage.

A versatile dancer trained in jazz, ballet, contemporary, tap, and acro, Wilhemina is a singer, avid swimmer, and clarinet player. Curious, creative, and full of heart, she brings warmth and enthusiasm to everything she does, and is thrilled to bring her joyful spirit to the role of Young Nala in her professional theatre debut in Disney’s THE LION KING.

Claire Abaijah-Griffin is delighted to be appearing in the ensemble of Disney’s THE LION KING. She trained in Brisbane at the Queensland National Ballet School before moving to Sydney to complete the Pre-Professional Year at Sydney Dance Company. Claire has performed abroad with Royal Caribbean International and continues to teach internationally as a guest artist. Her stage credits include Hamilton (Michael Cassel Group), touring Australia, New Zealand, and internationally. In addition to performing, she works as a choreographer and maintains a strong interest in performer health and wellbeing.

Follow her on Instagram (@clairegriffin_)

At the age of 16, Shugri is thrilled to be making her professional theatre debut in Disney’s THE LION KING. Training at Dance Edge Studios on the Sunshine Coast, Shugri also participates in the HQ Academy program, where she recently completed her Certificate IV in Dance.

She is deeply grateful for the support of her mentors, family, and peers as she begins this new chapter. Shugri is proudly represented by Kulik Management and would like to dedicate this milestone to her late mother.

Follow her on Instagram (@shugriabdi_)

Tara Bajan is a dynamic dancer and creative artist from Melbourne, Australia. Classically trained in ballet and jazz at STARZ Performing Arts, she blends technical precision with expressive performance quality.

Her performance credits include Snoop Dogg and Katy Perry – AFL Grand Final Pre-Game Show (AFL), Australian Open (Tennis Australia), The Goddesses (Breeze Entertainment), Dancing Queen Live: The Supreme Australian Tour (Alyssa Edwards’ Netflix Series).

As a choreographer, Tara has led international lyrical workshops across Australia and Europe, with work featured in Fluorescent (Sophie Nguyen) and Player (AANYA).

Her artistry has been recognised with a Victorian Outstanding Sporting Award 2020 (Victoria State Government) and Top 25 Under 25 Most Influential Women in Australia 2020 (Girlfriend Magazine).

Outside of dance, Tara just finished her Honours degree in Psychology at Monash University.

Tara is thrilled to make her musical theatre debut in Disney’s THE LION KING. Find her on Instagram @tara_bajan

Evangeline has been dancing since the age of three and competing from six, performing her first solo at eleven. Her love for musical theatre was sparked after seeing Disney’s THE LION KING at the Regent Theatre. At twelve, she made her stage debut as Young Nala in The Lion King JR with Take the Mic.

Evangeline trained at Patrick School of the Arts Academy, developing dance, acting, and vocal skills, and performed roles including Ariel in The Little Mermaid, Janice inMean Girls, Alice in Alice in Wonderland, and the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz. Additional credits include Dance Captain for 13: The Musical and Camp Rock.

Evangeline thanks Patrick Management and is excited to make her professional debut in Disney’s THE LION KING Australian Tour.

Sophie Dadge is a Filipino dancer who trained at the Dorothy Cowie School of Dancing and Newtown High School of the Performing Arts. She recently completed her Advanced Diploma in Performing Arts at Brent Street in 2025.

Disney’s THE LION KING marks her professional musical theatre debut, and she is deeply grateful to be part of this iconic production.

Ed is a graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts’ Music Theatre Foundation program (2005). He made his professional debut soon after in the Australian tour of Miss Saigon (Michael Coppell Ventures and Louise Withers & Associates) and most recently appeared in the Australian tour of Mary Poppins (Cameron Mackintosh, Disney Theatrical Group & Michael Cassel Group). Ed is thrilled to return to Disney’s THE LION KING, having previously performed in the acclaimed Australian tour from 2013–2016.

His theatre credits include ‘George’ in The Wedding Singer (DVE), Reefer Madness (RL Productions), Hair – The Musical (StageArt), La Cage aux Folles (Quirky Productions, RENT (Stella Entertainment), The Man from Snowy River – The Arena Spectacular (David Atkins), Into the Woods (VCA) and Beyond the Game (Australian Theatre for Young People).

Screen credits include Neighbours, Sisters, Newton’s Law, Better Man, and the feature film The Menkoff Method.

Leorate “Leo” Dibatana is an energetic South African dancer and choreographer originally from Rustenburg, North West, now based in Johannesburg. A prominent figure in the contemporary dance scene, Leo’s diverse training includes intensive study at the Westbury Dance Academy and the National School of the Arts, where he specialized in Latin American, Ballroom, and Classical dance forms.

He is well known for his collaboration with the renowned Dada Masilo/The Dance Factory, notably performing the lead role of Hamlet (as the dancer) during the company’s 2024-2025 world tour, which included performances at Sadler’s Wells and The Joyce Theatre. Leo also toured widely with Dada’s The Sacrifice, a blend of Tswana traditional and contemporary dance styles.

His experience also encompasses work with Mamela Nyamza’s Hatched Ensemble, which toured Europe and the United States in 2025, as well as local Johannesburg productions like Sins and 12 Decades. As an emerging choreographer, Leo is continuously creating original pieces that combine his varied stylistic influences with compelling narrative elements.

Junior Dilape was born and raised in South Africa. He is an award-winning champion dancer who has competed both in South Africa and internationally, in dance styles including ballet, jazz, freestyle, disco, modern and contemporary dance.

In 2023, he had the opportunity to be part of The #Currage Concert, a theatre production in celebration of 25 years of quality education at Curro.

In 2024, he was cast as a dancer in the longest running musical theatre production in South Africa, the award-winning global spectacle, African Footprint (Richard Loring Productions), which toured to Dubai in 2025.

He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce degree specialising in Business Management.

Follow him on Instagram (@junior.dilape)

Originally a qualified medical doctor, Matt Domingo is an award-winning Sri Lankan-Australian performer who has swiftly established a strong reputation across stage and screen since transitioning from healthcare in 2020.

Screen credits include the internationally acclaimed High Country (Binge/Curio), Rock Island Mysteries (Fremantle), the upcoming live-action Voltron (Amazon MGM), and Two Years Later (Paramount+/Hoodlum). On stage, his credits include Back to Bilo(Queensland Theatre/Belloo) and O, Ophelia (JUTE). Matt brings his skills as a singer, dancer, and musician to his professional musical theatre debut in the 2026 production of Disney’s THE LION KING.

Joe Gaudion is a proud Black Australian actor working across stage and screen. Most recently, he appeared in Hadestown (Opera Australia / Jones Theatrical Group). Theatre credits include his professional debut in Aladdin (Disney Theatrical Group), Kiss of the Spider Woman (Melbourne Theatre Company) and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Matt Ward Entertainment).

Screen credits include Romper Stomper (Stan), Seven Types of Ambiguity (ABC) and the feature film Inside (Charles Williams). A graduate of APO Arts Academy, Joe brings authenticity, depth, and lived experience to his work and is beyond excited to be joining Disney’s THE LION KING family.

Follow him on Instagram (@joegaudion).

Mukelisiwe Goba was born in Durban (South Africa) and trained at Mbongeni Ngema’s Academy. Credits include K-Cap, Umoja, and Rafiki in Disney’s THE LION KING (Madrid, US Tour and Broadway). Television credits include Code Black (US), Telethon (France) and 40 Principals (Madrid).

Mukelisiwe thanks her family for their constant support.

Chaska trained at Brent Street Studios and debuted her talent on Australia’s X-Factor as part of the singing group XOX.

Chaska made her theatre debut in Aladdin (Disney Theatrical Group) and went on to play Liz and understudy Mamma Morton in Chicago 2019 (GFO) at just 22. Her additional credits include Bonnie in Applause (Neglected Musicals), Val in A Chorus Line (Darlinghurst Theatre Co), the ARIA-nominated Velvet tour (Peter Rix), Leading Player understudy in PIPPIN The Musical (GFO), Kendra in Half Time (Hayes), and La Chocolat in the original Australian cast of Moulin Rouge! The Musical (Global Creatures). On screen, Chaska appeared in The Sapphires.

In 2024, she performed as June in Chicago (Crossroads Live) while understudying Mamma Morton and Velma Kelly, then joined the acclaimed Tina – The Tina Turner Musical (TEG Danity), covering Gran Georgeanna.

Most recently, following her performance as Lois Lane/Bianca in Kiss Me, Kate (Neglected Musicals), Chaska joined the 40th Anniversary Tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS (Crossroads Live) as Cassandra.

Chaska would love to thank her family and teachers. This show is dedicated to them.

Jayme-Lee’s musical theatre career began in Disney’s THE LION KING playing the role of Young Nala in 2005.

Jayme-Lee trained at the Victorian College of the Arts and completed a Diploma of Music Theatre at Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance.

Most recently Jayme-Lee appeared in the role of Puck in The Lovers (Crossroads Live/Shake & Stir) and Reno in Dusty The Musical – In Concert (Prospero Arts) at QPAC following an extraordinary Australian run as Alline in Tina – The Tina Turner Musical (TEG Danity), in which she also understudied the title role.

Other credits included the role of Bulda in the Australasian tour of Frozen (Disney Theatrical Productions), the role of Violet Beauregard in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Crossroads Live) and understudy for the role of Nabalungi in The Book of Mormon (Gordon Frost Organisation). For Stage Art she performed in In The Heights and played the role of Celie in the Australasian Premiere of The Color Purple for which she was nominated for a Green Room Award.

Annie-Lenore is a proud Filipina/Australian performer whose love of dance was first nurtured in the halls of S.H.A.K.E Dance School in Brisbane. At the age of fifteen she went on to further her dance training at the Queensland Dance School of Excellence (now known as the Queensland Ballet Academy). Upon graduating, she pursued further training across all aspects of the performing arts at ED5 International in Sydney, before establishing her career as a professional performer.

Since 2014, Annie-Lenore has worked extensively within the industry both overseas and on home soil. She made her Australian musical theatre debut as a Swing and Assistant Dance Captain on the 2023-2024 Australian tour of Miss Saigon (Opera Australia, GWB Entertainment).

Annie-Lenore is honoured to be joining Disney’s THE LION KING Australia.

Hamish is honoured to be joining Disney’s THE LION KING as the standby for Timon, Pumbaa, Zazu and Ed.

Born in Perth, Hamish is an accomplished actor, singer, dancer, writer and producer. He trained at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) and the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA). His theatre credits include Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (Michael Cassel Group), Miss Saigon (Opera Australia, GWB Entertainment) and Tick, Tick… Boom! (StoreyBoard Entertainment), alongside multiple seasons with the Australian Shakespeare Company. Screen work includes Utopia (ABC). Hamish’s debut play Kitty Litter, made its international premiere in 2026 with the feature film script now in development. Hamish is honoured to be a part of Disney’s The Lion King.

Instagram: @hamehameston

Khayaloxolo Mniki, professionally known as Khaya, is a bass singer from Alexandria in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, known for his commanding presence and powerful voice. He holds a degree in Vocal Arts (Performance) from Tshwane University of Technology, where he studied under Pierre du Toit. His classical work includes roles such as Sarastro in The Magic Flute (2011), Il Commendatore in Don Giovanni (2012), and performances in Mozart’s Requiem. Beyond opera, he gained national recognition on Clash of the Choirs South Africa, collaborating with leading South African artists. Khaya’s international career with Disney’s THE LION KING began in Spain in 2014, followed by tours in South Korea, Paris, and Disneyland Paris, where he portrayed Scar. He made his Canadian debut in Toronto in 2024.

Iteboge Modipane is a multi-talented artist from the small town of Munsieville in Krugersdorp. He made his professional debute in the Toronto production of Disney’s THE LION KING and continued his theatrical career in productions including Ashamed, Ballet Box, Embodied Conversation and Impande Ye Ngoma (Joburg Theatre) and Confessions(Blank Space Productions). Iteboge is passionate about creating unforgettable experiences and is thrilled to be a part of the Australian production of THE LION KING.

Kearabetswe was born in Pretoria, South Africa. She attended the National School of The Arts where she realized her passion for dance. She then studied at The Cape Academy of the Performing Arts where she trained in drama, dance andmusical theatre. Kearabetswe is also trained in voiceover work.

Theatre credits include Sweet Charity and Fame (Directed by Mark Hawkins) at the Joburg Theatre and Enemy Behind the Gates by Christopher Huggins.

She directed and choreographed a dance showcase for Youth Empowerment called ALLIANCE.

Kearabetswe made her West End debut in Disney’s THE LION KING London in 2021. She also performed in Mamela Nyamza’s Hatched Ensemble, as a dancer for Busisiwe Thwala (well known as music artist ‘Cici’) and as part of Wgruv Dance Company.

Steven Mokone is a South African professional dancer and performer with a National Diploma in Dance from Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)-Arts Campus.

He has worked with a number of renowned choreographers and companies, including Dada Masilo, Debbie Rakusin, Kelsey Middleton, Paul Modjadji and Mamela Nyamza. His passion for storytelling through movement and his versatility as a dancer have made him a sought-after artist in the industry, taking him to countries all around the world. 

He has performed in many of Dada Masilos works, including Swan Lake, Carmen, Giselle, The Sacrifice and her latestwork Hamlet, which premiered in Vienna, Austria in July 2024. In 2025 he toured with The African Footprint for their Dubai season and performed in HERD-LESS by Mamela Nyamza for its premiere in Mozambique.

Follow Steven on Instagram (@official_steven93)

Lwazi Mzimase is thrilled to be returning to Disney’s THE LION KING. They trained at the National School of the Arts (Dance Department) and at the Cape Academy of Performing Arts, studying dance and drama.

Stage credits include Darkroom Contemporary (Louise Coetzer), Cape Dance Company and Cape Dance Company II (Debbie Turner), Johannesburg Youth Ballet (Brenda Sakellarides), African Footprint (Richard Loring), Nkoli: The Vogue-Opera (Philip Miller), House of Pink (Thami Dish Foundation and the Market Theatre), Disney’s THE LION KING (Disney Theatrical Productions & Michael Cassel Group) A Summer Dream (Brett Bailey).

Film credits include Adidas x Superstar (Lovesong) and ON AIR: The Visual Album (Filah Lah Lah).

Follow Lwazi on Instagram: (@l_wazzi)

Buhle Nkomo is a South African theatre performer and singer from Umlazi, Durban. He found his love for performance early on and from the moment he stepped on stage, he knew storytelling, music, and movement were how he wanted to express himself.

He trained with Umsindo Theatre Project, building a strong foundation in physical theatre, ensemble work, and telling stories with his whole body. His journey has taken him across South Africa and to international stages, working in theatre, musical theatre, film, and cultural festivals.

Credits include King Kong: The Musical, 1976 The Musical, King Cetshwayo, The Girls of Aboke, and Disney’s THE LION KING, touring the UK, Ireland, and Canada.

Beyond performing, Buhle work in arts education, composition, choreography, and facilitation.

Rania earned his Cert IV in Performing Arts at Ettingshausen’s, Sydney and debuted as Pepe in West Side Story (Opera Australia). Theatre credits include Moulin Rouge! The Musical (Global Creatures), Chicago (Crossroads Live) and The Wedding Singer (David Venn Enterprises). In 2024 he starred as Scott Hastings in Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom (Court Theatre NZ) and most recently performed in Handa Opera’s Guys & Dolls (Opera Australia) on Sydney Harbour and the 40th Anniversary Tour of Cats as Alonzo (Crossroads Live). Some screen work includes The Voice and Dancing With The Stars, plus campaigns for The Iconic and Tommy Jeans, as well as work with artists such as Sam Smith and Conrad Sewell.

Jack Connor Rowan is thrilled to be joining the cast of Disney’s THE LION KING. His theatre credits include Miss Saigon (GWB UK / Opera Australia), The Phantom of the Opera (Opera Australia), Dusty – In Concert (Prospero Arts), Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Assistant Choreographer, MWE), Singin’ in the Rain in Concert (Prospero Arts), and The Wedding Singer (DVE). Beyond musicals, Jack’s performed as a soloist for New York–based company Step One(RWS), appeared as Rex Carr in Ms Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries (Every Cloud Production), and danced for artists including Snoop Dogg, Zoë Badwi, and Vera Blue. Jack’s training includes Premier Dance Academy, SCIMM Dance Company, QDSE, Ministry of Dance, Howard Fine Acting Studio, and The Improv Conspiracy. Jack is proudly represented by Helen Pandos Management.

Follow him on Instagram (@jack.com.au).

Jacob is a proud Non-binary musical theatre performer who’s credits include Gregory, understudying the roles of May and Francois in the Australasia tour of & Juliet (Michael Cassel Group), Jared Kleinman in Dear Evan Hansen (Sydney Theatre Company & Michael Cassel Group), Lola Alternate in Kinky Boots (James Terry Collective), Ensemble cover Blaine, Greg and Ronald in Cruel Intentions (DV Live) Aaron in Kimberly Akimbo (State Theatre Company & Melbourne Theatre Company) and Vocalist in Colour & Light: The Art of Stephen Sondheim (Watch This). Jacob is proudly represented by AMM and is so excited to be apart of Disney’s THE LION KING.

Follow them on Instagram (@Jacobrozario) and TikTok (@jacobrozario68)

Laila Salloum (she/her) is a Melbourne-based performer, who completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Theatre) at the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA) in 2025. During her third year at the VCA, Laila performed in Into the Woods as Little Red (dir. Ylaria Rogers) and ensemble in The Drowsy Chaperone (dir. Alistair Smith). Over her time at the VCA, she also performed in Curtains (dir. Rodger Hodgman), Working (dir. Tyran Parke), and Morning Melodies (dir. Jayde Kirtchet). At the 2024 Australian Music Theatre Festival, she was a featured performer in numerous works, including Nine (dir. Tyran Parke).

Laila is absolutely thrilled and honoured to be making her professional music theatre debut in Disney’s THE LION KING.

Chemon Theys is a proud South African born actor and singer. She completed a Diploma of Music Theatre in 2017 before returning to NIDA, graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting in 2025. Her Sydney independent theatre debut was Chorus (BonTom) at the Old Fitz Theatre, followed by the award-winning Symphonie Fantastique (Little Eggs Collective) at KXT.

In 2022, Chemon made her mainstage debut touring Australia as Marianne in Girl From the North Country (GWB). Voice work includes We Will Be Monsters (Universal Pictures x Fortnite). NIDA credits include Uncle Vanya, Macbeth, Dance Nation, Nine: The Musical and Peter Pan.

Lehlogonolo Clifford Tlomatsana is a South African performer whose artistic journey began in high school studying Dramatic Arts, where he discovered a love for singing and performance. Clifford later joined the University of Pretoria Youth Choir, touring internationally and deepening his passion for music and storytelling. Encouraged to pursue musical theatre, he completed his training at Oakfields College in Pretoria. His journey with Disney’s THE LION KING began in 2016 as part of the original opening cast at Shanghai Disneyland, followed by the international tour of Disney’s THE LION KING (Disney Theatrical Group & Michael Cassel Group) and performances in Paris with Disney’s LE ROI LION (Disney Theatrical Group & Stage Entertainment France). Clifford also appeared in Hans Zimmer Live (Lancelot Productions). He is thrilled to join this Australian production of Disney’s THE LION KING.

Dean is thrilled to be a part of Disney’s The Lion King as Standby to two iconic roles, the villainous Scar and flatulent Pumbaa. Dean graduated from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) with a Bachelor of Arts (Musical Theatre) in 2002. Some of his most notable credits include; Judge Turpin in Sweeney Todd (Victorian Opera), Manfred in Sunset Boulevard (Opera Australia, GWB Entertainment), Mr Braithwaite in Billy Elliot (Louise Withers and Associates), Standby Jafar/Sultan in Aladdin (Disney Theatrical Group), Fogarty/Judge in Chicago (Gordon Frost Organisation, Green Room Award – Ensemble Performance), Pancrazio in The Venetian Twins (New Theatre), Officer Krupke in West Side Story (The Production Company) Sergeant of Police in The Pirates of Penzance (Harvest Rain) Plato/Macavity in Cats (Really Useful Group) and the World Premiere productions of Dirty Dancing (Jacobsen Entertainment) as Stan, King Kong (Global Creatures) as Zekey and Priscilla Queen of the Desert (Back Row Productions). Dean played Gangle in Love Never Dies (Green Room Nomination) and features in the Universal film version of the production. Most recently Dean appeared as Lieutenant Ward/Understudy Oliver Warbucks in Annie(Crossroads Live).

Tarisai began singing at 3 years old. After migrating to Australia from Zimbabwe, she pursued performing whilst completing her tertiary studies at the Australian Institute of Music.

She rose to national prominence as a Top 5 finalist on Australian Idol in 2007 and her theatre credits include Disney’s THE LION KING, Madiba (The Prestige Presents), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (GFO), Parade (Soundworks Productions) and her original play Out of Africa, inspired by her migration journey.

Tarisai is also a counsellor, holding a Master of Arts in Psychology, a Graduate Diploma in Counselling, Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) & Diplomas in Quality Auditing and Business Compliance. She is the founder of SHEUN PTY LTD, providing support services to people living with disabilities.

Follow her on Instagram (@tarisaivushe) Facebook (@tarisaivushe) TikTok (@tarievushe Pocket Rocket) and Spotify (Tarisai Vushe).

Born and raised in Mdantsane, East London, South Africa, Asemahle studied at the Sonwa Sakuba Institute for the Performing Arts, where she studied dancing, singing and acting.

In 2024 she won a Standard Bank Ovation award for her powerful portrayal of the title in role Sarafina (Sonwa Sakuba) at The National Arts Festival in Makhanda.

Other credits include All You Need Is Love, Hidden Identity, Shrek, Afrika Sings, Moana, The Wizard of Oz, Buzani Kubawo (Sonwa Sakuba Institute for the Performing Arts), Abangoni (Mzamo Kunene), Uxwilo/The Rapture (Imisebenzi Emihle Dumbisa), The Secret Of Grave (Asemahle Mahlangeni), Unsung (Mandilakhe Lufundo). Asemahle has also worked as a backing vocalist for artists like Zimbini Makwetu and JolizaBhacaSoul and is a founding member of the band uThingo.

Follow her on Facebook (Mahle Xenti), Instagram (@asemahle_xenti) and TikTok (@_mahle.x).

Angel is a South African based actress and vocalist with a demonstrated record of producing exceptional performances.

Selected television and film credits include UZALO Blood is Forever (Stained Glass TV), Umkhokha: The Curse (Rhythm World Productions), Durban Gen (Stained Glass TV) and Dear Future Wife (Four Mountains Production).

Selected theatre credits include: NANDI The Musical by Edmund Mhlongo, MARIA The Musical by Zanele Mbokazi, Sarafina by Mbongeni Ngema and the Toronto production of Disney’s THE LION KING.

Find her on Instagram (@Angie_Zuma) and on Tik Tok: (@Angel Zuman).