[Podcast] Backstage at The Lion King on Broadway Dallas: A Conversation with Nala & Scar
By Ana Cruz
There are moments that remind us why we fell in love with the magic of theater — and this was one of them.
Recently, I had the unforgettable opportunity to go backstage at Disney’s The Lion King during its run at Broadway Dallas, inside the stunning Music Hall at Fair Park. This isn't just any musical — it’s the #1 musical in the world, celebrating over 30 years of global success.
A Legendary Show That Still Roars
The Lion King is more than a show. It’s a cultural phenomenon that continues to inspire generations with its powerful storytelling, iconic music by Elton John and Tim Rice, and visually stunning stage design. But behind every roar, every tear, and every standing ovation, are the artists who bring this timeless story to life.
Watch the Interview:
In this exclusive video interview, I caught up with two of the show’s stars — Thembelihle Cele, who plays the courageous and graceful Nala, and Peter Hargrave, who steps into the dark complexity of Scar.
We talked about:
How their dreams led them to Broadway
The emotional and artistic challenge of playing iconic characters
Seeing the "good" in the villain (yes, even Scar has layers!)
A beautiful message they shared for all the fathers out there
Their insight was not only inspiring, but a powerful reminder of the heart behind the performance.
Don’t Miss Your Chance to See The Lion King in Dallas
If you haven’t experienced the magic yet, there’s still time! The Lion King runs at the Music Hall at Fair Park in Dallas through July 3rd. This is your chance to witness one of the greatest musicals of all time, live and up close.
👉 Get your tickets now at: www.broadwaydallas.org
Final Thoughts
Being backstage reminded me of how much passion, precision, and love goes into every performance. Whether you're a longtime fan or experiencing The Lion King for the first time, this show — and this cast — will leave you changed.
Let me know what you think of the interview in the comments, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to my channel for more behind-the-scenes stories from the world of theater.