At This Performance

March 14, 2026 – 7:30pm

Young Nala will be played by

Has been passionate about the stage since starting her musical theater training at age three.She is excited to make her professional debut in The Lion King. During her downtime, Journey trains in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and is a 2x season champion.Grateful to Disney and my family for this opportunity! IG: @journeycompasofficial

Young Simba will be played by

Josiah Watson

Is thrilled to join The Lion King National Tour! Credits: Milo Imagines the World (Milo, Alliance Theatre) and Charlie & the Chocolate Factory (Charlie, Legacy Theatre).He is grateful to God, and thanks his family, ARC Casting, Disney, CBD (voice), and Landmark Christian Fine Arts program.IG: josiah.a.watson

Pumbaa will be played by

Thom Christopher Warren

22 years with The Lion King on Broadway, tour and Shanghai. B'way: Once Upon a Mattress. Regional: Hello, Dolly! (Horace), La Cage... (Albin), Ragtime (Tateh), Pippin (Charles/Berthe), Next to Normal (Dan), World premiere of Harmony (Harry), Peter & the Starcatcher (Black Stache), Fiddler on the Roof (Tevye) & Come From Away (Claude). IG: @Tcdubs. Host: Thank You, Half Hour podcast on Spotify & Apple podcasts. Love to Adam & Cbus family.

Ed will be played by

Joel Karie

Happy to be returning to The Lion King after performing in the Broadway and German companies. Other credits include Aida (Germany), Ain’t Misbehavin’ (UK), With A Song In My Heart (UK), Dancing in the Streets (West End), Saucy Jack and the Space Vixens (West End), and proud uncle to Kennedi (Tampa). After telling this story in 4 languages, in 3 foreign countries, Joel is thrilled to be performing on America’s national tour.

Specialties

Buzzard Pole

Eric Bean, Jr.

Originally from Bermuda, Eric attended the University of the Arts (Phila. PA) where he received his BFA in Dance Education & Choreography. A finalist in the Philadelphia A.W.A.R.D.S. competition, Mr. Bean has taught and choreographed nationally & internationally; offering master classes /workshops whenever available. Credits: Koresh Dance Co, Don Arden’s Jubilee!, Viking Ocean. Regional: The Little Mermaid, Beauty & the Beast, Once on this Island. IG: EBJDANCE

Ant Hill Lady / Fireflies

Kayla Rose Aimable

Glory! Theater:The Wiz, Arkansas Repertory, The Color Purple, West Coast Black Theater Troupe, Hairspray, Royal Caribbean. She would like to Thank God, family, and mentors for all of their love and support. Psalm 23.