Over 1,600 guests were invited to Disney’s The Lion King as part of Dr. Phillips Center’s largest community giveback. The Orlando arts center aims to reach more communities than ever as it celebrates its 10th anniversary.
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts recently announced more than 1,600 veterans, teachers, children, first responders, families and social service groups were invited to attend the world’s #1 musical, Disney’s The Lion King, inside Walt Disney Theater.
Since 2017, the arts center has purchased nearly 60,000 tickets to host guests for unique theater experiences.
Throughout Disney’s The Lion King show’s four-week Broadway run in downtown Orlando, 35 different organizations from three Central Florida counties will participate in nine community givebacks, including 29 newly engaged organizations in Orange County, Osceola County and Seminole County.
“We’re creating firsts, sparking joy and sharing moments that can inspire a lifelong love of the arts,” said Kathy Ramsberger, president & CEO of Dr. Phillips Center. “As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, our team is reaching more communities than ever— a true reflection of our promise to deliver Arts for Every Life®.”
The experience includes complimentary transportation provided by GoPegasus, a pre-show reception with trivia, tickets to the show and a themed swag bag to bring home.
During the show run, the arts center is hosting a variety of organizations and professionals, including new beneficiaries, the Seminole County Sherrif’s Office and Osceola County Sherrif’s Office. The giveback wraps up with City and County Day on May 17, 2025, when City of Orlando and Orange County Government elected leaders from all districts come together to highlight 13 community organizations they have selected to participate.
Running through May 18th, Disney’s The Lion King can be seen at the Walt Disney Theater at Dr. Phillips Center as part of the AdventHealth Broadway in Orlando 24/25 Season. The Lion King features one of Broadway’s most imaginative creative teams, along with a special homecoming for local actor Julian Villela, who plays “Young Simba.”
Before channeling the legendary lion cub, 12-year-old Julian began his acting journey at Dr. Phillips Center, where he credits learning how to become a professional and developing his focus during auditions. As a student of the AdventHealth School of the Arts, he participated in various programs, including the Quarter Notes and even performed in a school production of The Lion King.
The role of “Young Simba” is alternated between Bryce Christian Thompson and Julian Villela.
The production features Peter Hargrave (Scar), Mukelisiwe Goba (Rafiki), Nick Cordileone (Timon), Nick LaMedica (Zazu), Danny Grumich (Pumbaa), Erick D. Patrick (Simba), Thembelihle Cele (Nala), Forest VanDyke (Banzai), Martina Sykes (Shenzi), Sam Linda (Ed), Wiliam John Austin (Standby Scar, & Pumbaa) and Thom Christopher Warren (Standby Scar, Zazu, Timon & Pumbaa). The role of “Mufasa” will be alternated between Darnell Abraham and Gerald Ramsey.
The role of “Young Nala” is alternated between Ritisha Chakraborty, Jaxyn Damasco and Emmanuella Olaitan.
Rounding out the cast are Kayla Rose Aimable, Ellen Akashi, Layla Brent, Vernon Brooks III, Sasha Caicedo, Lauren Carr, Shaquelle Charles, Reoagile Choabi, Daniela Cobb, Gabriel Croom, Lyric Danae, Maurice Dawkins, Cedrick Ekra, Valériane Louisy Louis Joseph, Joel Karie, Gabisile Manana, Justin Mensah, Sarita Amani Nash, Aaron Nelson, Jeremy Noel, Yuka Notsuka, Sicelo Ntshangase, Sayiga Eugene Peabody, Maurica Roland, Poseletso Sejosingoe, Kevin Ricardo Tate, Courtney Thomas, Ben Toomer, Denzel Tsopnang, Shacura Wade, Brinie Wallace and Jordan Nicole Willis.
Disney’s The Lion King is part of the AdventHealth Broadway in Orlando 24/25 season at the arts center. Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, The Lion King features one of Broadway’s most imaginative creative teams.
Generous support is provided by American Momentum, Central Florida Expressway Authority, City of Orlando, Fifth Third Bank, Florida Theatrical Association, GoPegasus, Jeff & Alexis Weltman, Kevin & Mary Pat Dunleavy, Morgan Stanley, Orange County Florida Government, Ravago Americas, Rebecca Shanahan, Sysco and Waste Pro.
