Lost Nation Theater students kick off summer with ‘The Lion King-Kids’
June 24, 2026 | By Waterbury Roundabout
The cast of Lion King-Kids. Courtesy photo
Jumping into summer over the course of just one week, youth performers with Lost Nation Theater will bring “The Lion King-Kids” to the Montpelier City Hall Arts Center stage for three shows this weekend.
The community theater’s Theater For Kids BY Kids arm started this week working “page to stage.” Over just five days, 15 cast members, ages 9-17, are learning their roles and putting together the performances that will run this Friday and Saturday.
The weeklong experience means working, studying and rehearsing nearly eight hours a day to create their version of the 30-year classic Broadway musical and Disney film. The production features music by Elton John and Tim Rice from the original movie and tunes penned especially for the Broadway show. The Lost Nation production adds authentic African drumming and dancing to the mix through a partnership with the local Shidaa Projects Inc. that includes Jordan Mensah offering cultural consultation, and Samuel Marquaye as both lead drummer and co-choreographer.
For those who know the story, this youth production celebrates the Circle of Life and includes all of the tale’s favorite characters: the curious cub Simba, the evil Uncle Scar, lioness Nala, the charismatic meerkat Timon, the lovable warthog Pumbaa, the eccentric but wise mandrill Rafiki, and more.
Along the way, Lost Nation assembles a team of professional theater artists to guide the summer youth musical theater intensive.
Alexa Kartschoke is the show’s director and choreographer. “The story of ‘The Lion King’ has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and I am so excited to be working with this incredible team to bring this piece to life. The classic story plus the added expertise from Shidaa Projects is going to make this a performance you won't want to miss!” she said.
Music Director Jen Greenwood agrees, saying: “I have loved this story and these songs ever since I saw Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ in theaters. I can’t wait to share these stories, full of song and dance and lots of humor, with local youth.”Performances are this Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m.; a Saturday matinee begins at 2 p.m. The runtime of the performances is 45 minutes, making it suitable for all ages.
Montpelier City Hall is wheelchair accessible and air-conditioned. After a multi-year closure, the flood-damaged building elevator is back in order.
Tickets start at $9-19 for general admission; reserved seating is $17-27. More information and advance tickets are online at lostnationtheater.org or call 802-229-0492, email info@lostnationtheater.org.