A Theatrical Journey Worth Roaring About
In Fall 2024, World Upside Down Arts Studio presented a breathtaking production of The Lion King Jr. at the Younts Center for Performing Arts in Fountain Inn, South Carolina. Bursting with energy, color, and heart, this youth production offered more than just a retelling of a beloved Disney classic — it became a celebration of creativity, community, and transformation through the arts.
From the first drumbeat to the final bow, the show captured the spirit of Pride Rock while showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of local young performers. The cast — made up of students from the Upstate area — delivered each line, song, and movement with confidence and emotion, leaving audiences of all ages spellbound.
Show Dates and Synopsis
November 8, 9, 15, 16 | $15/person
The Younts Center for Performing Arts
315 N Main St, Fountain Inn, SC 29644
Disney’s The Lion King has captivated the imagination of audiences around the world, and now you have the opportunity to produce this one-of-a-kind musical in your community. Bring the African savanna to life on your stage with Simba, Rafiki and an unforgettable cast of characters as they journey from Pride Rock to the jungle and back again in this inspiring, coming-of-age tale.
The Lion King JR. features classic songs from the Broadway musical and animated feature film, including “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” “He Lives in You,” and “Hakuna Matata.” Young performers will also get the chance to learn a wide range of new theatrical skills—such as mask-making and puppetry—encouraging them to explore this beloved story with creativity and pride.
TLK_Playbill by wudhub
A Theatrical Journey Worth Roaring About
In Fall 2024, World Upside Down Arts Studio presented a breathtaking production of The Lion King Jr. at the Younts Center for Performing Arts in Fountain Inn, South Carolina. Bursting with energy, color, and heart, this youth production offered more than just a retelling of a beloved Disney classic — it became a celebration of creativity, community, and transformation through the arts.
From the first drumbeat to the final bow, the show captured the spirit of Pride Rock while showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of local young performers. The cast — made up of students from the Upstate area — delivered each line, song, and movement with confidence and emotion, leaving audiences of all ages spellbound.
Standout Performances and Visionary Direction
Under the leadership of World Upside Down’s passionate creative team, the production delivered unforgettable moments. Young actors stepped boldly into iconic roles like Simba, Nala, Scar, Rafiki, and Timon & Pumbaa — each bringing their own personality and creativity to the stage. The vocal performances were particularly moving, with standout renditions of classics like “He Lives in You” and “Hakuna Matata.”
Choreography was tight, expressive, and age-appropriate, while staging and blocking cleverly made use of every inch of the theater space. The result was a show that felt both professional and deeply personal.
Stunning Costumes, Puppets, and Set Design
The production team went above and beyond in creating an immersive visual experience. Costumes and makeup were vibrant and imaginative, blending African-inspired patterns with theatrical flair. But what truly set the show apart was its use of puppetry and handcrafted headpieces, which brought lions, hyenas, and jungle creatures to life with astonishing creativity.
Many of these elements were crafted by students themselves, integrating visual arts into the rehearsal process. This hands-on approach made the performance not just a stage production, but a multidisciplinary learning experience.
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“Meet the Cast”: A Community Celebration
One of the highlights of the show weekend was the “Meet the Cast” event, which turned the theater into an open house of joy and connection. Families, friends, and community members were invited to stay after the performance to meet the young stars, take photos on stage, and explore backstage areas.
Kids were thrilled to get autographs and selfies with cast members still in costume, and cast families shared in the excitement with tears, hugs, and proud applause. It wasn’t just a photo op — it was a moment of recognition and validation for the students’ hard work.
The event also included themed craft activities and a lion-themed selfie wall, helping families create lasting memories while reinforcing the inclusive, family-friendly values that World Upside Down stands for.
A Mission-Driven Production: Theater for All
What makes World Upside Down unique is its unwavering commitment to accessibility and community. Through their Gift-A-Ticket initiative, the organization provided free tickets to children in foster care, neurodivergent kids, and families with limited resources, ensuring that everyone had a chance to experience the magic of live theater.
This mission-driven approach, combined with high-quality arts education and performance opportunities, sets World Upside Down apart as a leading force in youth arts programming in South Carolina.
Final Thoughts
World Upside Down’s The Lion King Jr. was more than a musical — it was a movement. A movement toward inclusive, expressive, and empowering arts experiences for all children. With its inspired performances, joyful community engagement, and heart-centered mission, the Fall 2024 production left a lasting impression on everyone who attended.
As the curtain falls on this season, one thing is certain: the future of theater is in good hands with World Upside Down — and we can’t wait to see what they bring to the stage next.
Want to get involved or support World Upside Down? Visit worldupsidedown.org to learn more about upcoming events, performances, and arts-integrated programs.
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