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JOHN VICKERY (Scar) originated the role of Scar in the Broadway production of "The Lion King." He has also appeared on Broadway in "The Sisters Rosensweig," "The Real Thing," "Ned & Jack," "Eminent Domain," and "Macbeth." He has worked extensively in Southern California, most recently as Estragon in the Matrix Theatre Co.'s revival of "Waiting for Godot." Recent T.V.: "Judging Amy," "Star Trek DS9," "Crusade," "Early Edition," "The Others," and "Stark Raving Mad." Film: "Patriot Games," "Big Business," "Dr. Giggles," "Rapid Fire," "Out of Bounds," and the soon-to-be released "Shooting L.A." He dedicates his performance to Jeanie and Alexandria.
RUFUS BONDS, JR. (Mufasa) received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Jim Conley in "Parade," which earned him 1999 Drama Desk and FANY award nominations for outstanding featured actor in a musical. Also awarded the Dora Mavor Moore nomination (the Canadian Tony Award), best actor, for work in "Miss Saigon." Other Broadway credits: "Rent," "Once on This Island." Dedicates performances to son Pate and wife Diane. "God Blesses."
FUSCHIA (Rafiki) Tonys? Oscars? Emmys? Not yet! 65-word bio? Yes. Last show gave me 40. Broadway: "Les Mis�rables" (Madame Thenardier), Julie Taymor's "Juan Darien"; "Dreamgirls"; "Once on This Island"; "Sheila's Day." Television and Film: "Bringing Out the Dead"; "Harlem Aria" with Damon Wayans; "Law and Order"; "New York Undercover." Also commercials, radio, and cartoons. Greatest accomplishment: "Jacquel my Blue Belle, Mommy loves you." Okay, that's all folks!
DANNY RUTIGLIANO (Timon), a Broadway original cast member, last appeared on Broadway as Ralph J. Bostwick in "Whorehouse Goes Public." He was Jenkins and performed Twimble/ Womper in the tour of "How to Succeed �" Off-Broadway: "One Touch of Venus" (Encore Series), "Topper," "Godspell," "That's Life," and "Yiddle with a Fiddle." Danny has acted and directed extensively in regional theater and lives in New Jersey with his beautiful wife and best friend, Jacqueline Monroe.
CLIFTON OLIVER (Simba), a native of Jackonsville, Florida, is thrilled to be a part of the Los Angeles production of "The Lion King." Theater credits include "Pippin" (Papermill Playhouse), "Rent" (Australian Tour, Benny/Collins), "Ragtime" (LA/Vancouver), "Grease" (National Tour, Teen Angel), "Hair" (Actors Theatre of Louisville), and "Once on This Island" (DASOTA, Pa pa ge). "I'd like to thank my family and friends for their love and support."
MOE DANIELS (Nala) a Los Angeles native is proud to represent her city in this production of "The Lion King." A singer/songwriter, Moe has also acted in numerous television commercials and was last seen as Joanne with the National Touring Company of "Rent." She wishes to thank her family and friends for their laughter and support. And to P. ... I love you.
WILLIAM AKEY (Zazu) Houdini in "Ragtime," Frankie in "Forever Plaid," Neal in "1940s Radio Hour" (Dramalogue Award, L.A. Drama Critics Circle Nomination). Television: "The Young and the Restless" (Frank Applegate), "Providence," "Beverly Hills 90210," "Suddenly Susan," "Murphy Brown," "Hangin' with Mr. Cooper." Current commercials: Lexus and Sun Microsystems. Film: "The Parent Trap," "I Love Trouble," and "Father of the Bride II." Soli gloria Deo!
BOB BOUCHARD (Pumbaa) is thrilled to be performing with this talented cast. You may have seen him in such T.V. shows as "Murphy Brown" and "The Tom Show," and in over 60 commercials, and with shows like "Chicago," "Guys and Dolls," "West Side Story," and Cirque de Soleil's "Mystere" as the Baby. He would like to thank friends and family for all their love and support.
JEFFREY POLK (Banzai) "Smokey Joe's Caf�" (Europe, US/Australia); "Five Guys Named Moe" (*Ovation Award) New York, *Los Angeles, US; "Ain't Misbehavin'" (Ken) South Bay C.L.O.; "The Music Man" (Marcellus) Theatre League; "Guys and Dolls" (Benny) McCoy/Rigby; "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" (Judah) St. Louis Muny, "Jesus Christ Superstar" (Simon) T.U.T.S., "My One and Only" (New Rhythm Boy), "E.F.X." M.G.M. Las Vegas. Thanks to my mother, family, and friends and all their blessings.
CARLA RENATA WILLIAMS (Shenzi) Broadway: "The Life," "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying," "Smokey Joe's Caf�." Tours: The Who's "Tommy" 20th Anniversary Tour, "Jesus Christ Superstar." Television: "Chicago Hope," "Frasier," "Good vs. Evil," "The Huntress." Graduate of Howard University, Washington, D.C.
PRICE WALDMAN (Ed and u/s Timon, Zazu) US/European tour: "Songs and Stories from Moby Dick" codirected by Laurie Anderson and Anne Bogart. NYC: "The Jungle Book"; "The Wind in the Willows" (The New Victory Theater). Regional: "Richard III" and "Twelfth Night" (Great Lakes Theatre Festival), "Romeo and Juliet" (Portland Stage), "Esmeralda" (St. Louis Rep.), "Sweeney Todd" (Goodspeed), "Assassins" (AMTSJ). Thanks and love to my family and Rebecca.
VICTOR TALMADGE (Standby for Scar, Pumbaa) last appeared at the Pantages Theatre as the King in the Broadway national tour of "The King and I" (the Bay Area Theater Critics Award). His work has been seen in New York as well as regional theaters throughout the country. Among his film credits are "The Game," "Jack," "Jade," "Copycat," "Class Action," "Ted and Venus," and "Jackknife." Mr. Talmadge cowrote and stars in "The Gate of Heaven," for which he received the Nakashima Peace Award.
BK KENNELLY (Standby for Timon, Pumbaa, Zazu) "Cats" (Rum Tum Tugger), "Crazy for You!" (Bobby - Robby Award Nom.), "Me and My Girl" (Bill - Critics Circle Awards), "Evita" (Che - Critics Circle Award Nom.), "Singin' in the Rain" (Cosmo - Carbonell Award, Robby Award Nom.), other musicals, plays, TV commercials, and films. For family and his love, Kristi Lynes Kennelly.
JORDAN CALLOWAY (Young Simba, at certain performances) is a brilliant performer who has guest starred on several television shows and national commercials. "The District," "The Parkers," and "Parent Hood" are among his credits. Jordan loves to spend his free time playing baseball, chess, and being with his family. He thanks manager Lola Blank, acting coach Chip Fields-Herd, his vocal coach Billy Purnell, agents Eric Stevens and Kim Dorr at BBA. 
CHRISTOPHER MASSEY (Young Simba, at certain performances) is 11 and from Atlanta. Christopher enjoys reading, golf and gymnastics. Credits include McDonalds, Kellogg's Pop Tarts, and the movie "Passing Glory." He thanks his mom and dad for supporting him, Tyrone Burke for helping his dad financially, Grandma Grady and Grandma Massey, Cindy Osbrink, Joy Pervis, Judy Landis, and Aunt Bonnie!
KRISTINA MARIE GARNETT (Young Nala, at certain performances). A native New Yorker, Kristina now attends the Fairburn Ave. School. She studies with Lula Washington Dance Theatre, BB's Kids Acting Workshop with Belinda Balaski, and vocal coach Jeanine Wagner. She has performed in the Donald Byrd's "The Harlem Nutcracker," as well as other local shows. Thank you God, my family, and Liz Marx for this wonderful blessing!
KANDACE ROYSTER (Young Nala, at certain performances). Born March 6, 1990. Her acting experience includes various commercials and television programs. She is honored to play the role of Young Nala in her first professional stage play. Kandace's hobbies are playing with her dog Rocky and her two hamsters, bicycle riding, dancing, singing, writing, and making others smile. And to God be the Glory.
NELSON M. CABASSA (Ensemble) was raised in N.Y. He trained with Mary Barnett and S.U.N.Y. Purchase. Credits include "Ailey 2," "Complexions," and appearances with A.A.A.D.T. and Jessie Norman. Nelson thanks Mom, Cynthia, and G-Force for their support.
DARRELL CLARK II (Ensemble) a native of Los Angeles, gives thanks to God, who strengthens him, and dedicates this performance to his mother.
KEISHA LAREN CLARKE (Ensemble and u/s Sarabi) is a Jamaican Brooklynite. CalArts BFA in Dance. Toured with the Lula Washington Dance Theatre. Trained at London Contemporary Dance School, Alvin Ailey,and Gotta Dance Inc. Thanks to God, Mom, Dad, Lij, and my peeps. Prov. 3:5-6.
TONYA L. DIXON (Ensemble and u/s Rafaki, Shenzi) Broadway: "Ragtime." National Tours: "Dreamgirls" (Lorrell); "Once on This Island" (Ti Moune); "Music of the Night" (featured performer). Many regional theater productions. Thank you God, family, friends, and B.B.
HASSAN EL-AMIN (Ensemble and u/s Mufasa, Scar), regional stage actor, has performed at the Mark Taper Forum, Alliance Theatre, Denver Center, Arena Stage, Huntington Theatre, Milwaukee Repertory, Guthrie Theatre, Portland Center Stage, San Diego Repertory, and the Utah, Colorado, and Oregon Shakespeare Festivals. He received his MFA in theater from the University of Delaware.
BERNARD GADDIS (Ensemble) from Philadelphia, PA. Principal dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Principal dancer with Philadanco, was also the founder and artistic director of Philadanco's Second Co. Mr. Gaddis is also a choreographer, makeup artist, actor, and model. Debut with "The Lion King."
MELISSA HAIZLIP (Ensemble) went to Yale and studied with Alvin Ailey. Broadway: "Jelly's Last "; "A Christmas Carol"; "Oh, Kay!" Regional: "Play On!" (Pasadena Playhouse/ PBS Great Performances); "Dreamgirls"; "Ain't Misbehavin'"; "Cats." Upcoming Showtime film: "Mr. Bojangles," starring Gregory Hines.
CELISE HICKS (Swing, Dance Captain) trained at the Ailey School and was a member of Ailey II, Ron Brown/Evidence, and Notre Dame de Paris. Thank you Toni and Geneva for being you. I love you.
SHAMEIKA HINES (Swing) a California native, graduated from the LA County HS for the Arts. Her credits include six years with the Lula Washington Dance Theatre, national and international television, music videos, award shows, scholarships, and competitions.
BRIAN MAKIWANE (Ensemble) has worked with the most popular Gospel production, Joyous Celebration 2,3,4, and toured South Africa. Back-up artist for Hugh Masekela and was in the musical "The Lion and the Lamb" (narrated by Dr. John Kani).
KAMILAH MARTIN (Ensemble) Broadway: "Rent" (Joanne/Seasons soloist); National Tours: "Rent" (Joanne); Regional: "Hello Dolly," with Nell Carter; Film: "The American President," with Michael Douglas. Kamilah thanks God for his blessings and her family and friends for their support.
TABBATHA MAYS (Ensemble) has been performing for as long as she can remember as a dancer, singer, actress, and model. She feels blessed to have traveled the planet doing what she loves. Thank you for coming and I hope to make you smile.
IAN VINCENT McGINNIS (Ensemble) began dancing with Dimension Dance Co. in Oakland, California. He studied with the Garth Fagan Dance Co. in New York, then returned home to the West Coast to dance for ODC, RHJDC, and Santa Barbara Dance Theatre.
ALAN MINGO, JR., (Ensemble and u/s Simba) staged, choreographed, and originated the role of Collins in the Italian version of the musical "Rent." He has also played Collins on Broadway as well as in the second national tour. Last fall he was seen costarring on "Frasier."
ALBERTINA NKHELA (Ensemble) started singing at the age of three, won the Shell Road to Fame, 1995 Soloist of the Year. Featured in an annual event, Joyous Celebration, and has shared the stage with well-known artists in South Africa. She has performed in African states, UK, Seattle, and Brussels. God bless.
BONGANI B. NXUMALO (Ensemble) was born in Kwazulu Natal, South Africa. Songwriter, sound designer, now voice-over artist. He has broken barriers in the entertainment industry.
STEPHANIE POWELL (Ensemble and u/s Sarabi) received her BA from UC Berkeley, modeled internationally, and has performed with Oakland Ballet, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Donald Byrd/The Group, San Francisco Opera, and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre.
ANGELO RIVERA (Ensemble). After having made his Broadway debut in "The Lion King," Angelo is thrilled to join the LA Company. Credits include: the national tour of "Cats," "Starlight Express," and the European tour of "West Side Story." He would like to thank his family and friends for their love and support.
CINDA RAMSEUR (Ensemble and u/s Nala, Shenzi) Salute! Originally from LA., Cinda would like 2 thank her beautiful family, Cheyenne, Bernard, and Eric. I love U!! Ciao!
SHARI WASHINGTON RHONE (Swing) toured internationally with Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre (Assistant Director), as well as with the Heritage Chorale. Toured extensively with Lula Washington Dance Theatre. Thanks to my husband Daniel, my parents, and Andre for their love and support.
SHANE SCOTT (Swing, Assistant Dance Captain) is privileged and honored to make his professional theatrical debut with "The Lion King." Shane would like to thank family and friends for their love and support. Special thanks to Greg Enriquez and Garold Gardner.
LUBABALO SIBINDLANA (Ensemble) was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and raised in East London. His greatest fulfillment being music, he's grown to work with people - a youth leader (church), founder of New Creation Gospel Group, and part of Joyous Celebration. All glory to Jesus Christ.
JOS� SILVA (Swing), a native of Southern California, is an accomplished dancer. Jos� has appeared in Disney's film "Newsies," played Rico in Barry Manilow's "Copacabana," and has been cast as a lead adagio with various ballet companies.
KEENA SMITH (Ensemble) received her BFA in dance from UNLV and her MFA in dance from UCI. She sends many loving thanks to her family and mentors, and dedicates her career to the loving memory of her father.
MARC CEDRIC SMITH (Ensemble and u/s Mufasa) After performing with symphonies and opera companies worldwide, Marc discovered musical theater in 1996 touring with "Show Boat" and then "Ragtime." Television audiences may recognize him from his frequent appearances on "Bill Nye the Science Guy."
ROCKLIN THOMPSON (Swing, u/s Banzai) Allah Akbar � This is the perfect stepping stone in my career. Thanks to Carla Service, Reginald-Ray Savage, and E.T.P. for my training. And a huge "I love you" to my grandmother and parents.
MILES WESLEY (Swing and u/s Simba) credits: Joe Vegas in the European tour of "Fame: The Musical" (original US cast recording), Cain/Japheth in the West Coast premiere of "Children of Eden," and Daniel in "Once on This Island."
CHERICE WHITE (Swing) Film: "Strange Days," "Hospital Penn." Theater: "The Lion King" (Broadway preproduction.) With Christ at the head of my life, I give all that He has blessed me with back to Him. Love you Taji, Johnny, and Mommy.
HARRISON WHITE (Ensemble and u/s Banzai Ed) Theater credits range from Broadway's "Sarafina" to London's "Smokey Joe's Caf�." As a member of the Los Angeles film community he was featured in "Se7en" and costarred in "I Got the Hook-Up." God's grace.
MARVETTE WILLIAMS (Sarabi, Ensemble and u/s Nala) is proud to make her Pantages debut in "The Lion King" after a string of leading roles in acclaimed musicals such as "Hair," "Tommy," and "Little Shop of Horrors." Ms. Williams thanks her friends and family for their support.
ADRIAN YOUNG (Ensemble) of L.A. began her training at CSULB. She has worked commercially and lived and worked overseas. Adrian's thankful to three women who supported her from the start: Sandie Young, Michele Simmons, and Winifred R. Harris. Je t'aime!
Information in the cast bios is provided by the production. Where opinions are expressed, they are those of the cast member, not necessarily those of Disney Theatricals. |