WYO PLAY and Tandem Productions Present Lion King Jr. at the WYO 

Co-directed by Big Horn Elementary music teacher Tyler Rogers and Meadowlark Elementary music teacher Arianna Thurow, Lion King JR tells the story of the adventures of a curious cub named Simba as he struggles to accept the responsibilities of adulthood and his destiny as king. Along the way, the young lion encounters a colorful cast of characters including spunky lioness Nala, charismatic meerkat Timon, and loveable warthog Pumbaa. To claim his rightful place on the throne and save his beloved Pridelands, Simba must find his inner strength and confront his wicked Uncle Scar. 

While appearing on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Rogers and Thurow said the music will be both recognizable and fresh to many who grew up with the classic Disney film.  

T. Rogers / A. Thurow

The WYO Play cast includes 60 local youth performers including Jax Willis and Libby Skalicky, who have appeared in numerous WYO PLAY productions and the recent Sheridan High School production of Anastasia. Thurow said the ability to involve so many young performers was the deciding factor in choosing Lion King Jr.

A. Thurow

Skalicky and Willis are no strangers to large casts and productions. Skalicky said the opportunities to contribute to the creative process during rehearsals created a strong supportive atmosphere for the cast. 

L. Skalicky

Willis echoed Skalicky, and added the directors’ respect for their young actors allowed them to grow their characters. 

J. Willis 

The WYO Play and Tandem Productions musical features and teaches the students challenging vocal and rhythmic performances, as well as expanded production elements including set design, digital backdrops, costumes, makeup, props, lighting and sound.

Performances of the WYO PLAY and Tandem Productions of Lion King Jr. will begin at 7 p.m. each evening, June 17-20 in the WYO Theater. 

Tickets are available through the WYO Theater box office and online at wyotheater.com.