At This Performance

June 15, 2025 – 6:30PM

Young Nala will be played by

“Ella,” a scholar and accomplished gospel artist, is thrilled and honored to make her professional theater debut as Young Nala in The Lion King, Rafiki National Tour. Credits: Willy Wonka (Violet) and Pinocchio (Jimmy Cricket). Love and gratitude to mom Tina Johnson and family, Lisa Calli/Calli Co Ent, Kurt Domoney/BKA, Sharra Dade-Icoachstars, Arc Casting, Disney Theatrical and the cast and crew. Insta: @Iamella.olaitan Youtube: @ellasworld2538

Young Simba will be played by

Julian Villela

Thrilled to make his National Tour debut! Last seen at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and Orlando Family Stage. Enjoys singing and martial arts with his sister Alejandra. Thanks to mom, dad, family, friends, Arc Casting, Disney, BAA, Yael Chanukov (voice) and The First Academy. Representation: Barry Kolker. IG: @julianvillela26

Banzai will be played by

Nhlanhla Ndlovu

A South African native, Nhlanhla has been singing since before he could talk and loves live music and performances. He is grateful to be back onstage and is excited to be traveling across the country with this show. He's been with The Lion King for over half a decade now and has worked with the Broadway cast, North American tour and the Madrid cast in Spain. God is good all the time. Ayikho Inkomo Yobuthongo

Sarabi will be played by

Jennifer Theriot

Overjoyed to join this production. Attended: American Musical and Dramatic Academy NY. Regional credits: Tarzan; Dreamgirls; Hairspray; Little Shop; International: Beauty and the Beast Tour and Disney cruise lines. “I thank my family and friends for their constant and overflowing prayers and support!!”

Specialties

Ant Hill Lady / Fireflies

Lyric Danae

Lyric is elated to be making her debut in the Pridelands! She is a graduate of the Ailey/Fordham BFA program and her favorite credits include: The Bodyguard, Oscar At The Crown, and the NBA Boston Celtics. @lyricdanae

Guinea Fowl

Jordan Samuels

Broadway: Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. 1st national tour Newsies. Dance: Rasta Thomas’ Bad Boys of Dance. Thanks to The Lion King creative team, Disney, Binder Casting and family for love and support.

Lioness Chant Vocal

Aaron Nelson

Is honored to be among the few in The Lion King's history to cover the "Big 3" roles and notably the first African American to perform as Scar on tour. Select Broadway/TV: The Lion King (Simba), “FBI: Most Wanted” (CBS), “Chicago Fire” (NBC). Aaron dedicates each performance to his children and loved ones. @theactlete // Psalm 9:2

Joining the Company