Lion King
Cleveland

When The Lion King first roared onto Broadway at the New Amsterdam Theatre in November 1997, no one could have predicted it would become the most successful entertainment property in history. Director Julie Taymor fused African art, puppetry, and theatrical innovation into a production that won six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and went on to gross more than $10 billion worldwide across all its productions. The North American touring company has visited Cleveland multiple times over the decades, and each return is a major event — the 2026 engagement sold so quickly that Playhouse Square extended the run by two additional weeks through August 16.

The KeyBank State Theatre at Playhouse Square is one of the crown jewels of the American theater landscape. Opened in 1921 as part of the world’s largest performing arts center outside of New York’s Lincoln Center, the 3,200-seat auditorium features soaring ceilings, ornate plasterwork, and sightlines that let The Lion King’s signature opening number — where life-size animal puppets process through the aisles to the stage — land with maximum impact. The theater is located at 1519 Euclid Avenue in downtown Cleveland, steps from the Playhouse Square district’s restaurants, parking garages, and the RTA Red Line station.

The score by Elton John and Tim Rice remains one of the most recognizable in musical theater, anchored by songs like “Circle of Life,” “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” “Hakuna Matata,” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” South African composer Lebo M contributed additional musical material that gives the production its distinctive Afrobeat pulse, while Taymor’s staging — featuring masks, shadow puppets, and the iconic grasslands scene — remains unlike anything else in touring theater. The Cleveland run includes 47+ performances: Tuesdays through Fridays at 7:30 PM, Saturdays at 1:30 PM and 7:30 PM, and Sundays at 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM, plus select Thursday matinees.

Families with children who have sensory sensitivities should note that a special sensory-friendly performance is scheduled for Saturday, August 1, 2026 at 1:30 PM. These performances feature adjusted lighting and sound levels, designated quiet areas, and trained staff to ensure a comfortable experience for all audience members. It’s a thoughtful addition that reflects The Lion King’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

How to Buy The Lion King Cleveland Tickets

Where can I buy Lion King Cleveland tickets?

Tickets are available through the Playhouse Square website at playhousesquare.org, by phone at 216-241-6000, or at the Playhouse Square box office in person. Individual tickets went on sale to the general public on February 11, 2026. Verified resale tickets are also available on BigStub, a trusted third-party marketplace with no hidden fees, a buyer guarantee, and over 20 years of experience in the ticket industry.

When does The Lion King play in Cleveland?

The engagement runs from July 8 through August 16, 2026 at the KeyBank State Theatre at Playhouse Square. The performance schedule is Tuesdays through Fridays at 7:30 PM, Saturdays at 1:30 PM and 7:30 PM, and Sundays at 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM. Additional Thursday matinees are scheduled on July 9 and July 30 at 1:30 PM. Check the Playhouse Square calendar for the most current schedule.

What should I know about the KeyBank State Theatre?

The KeyBank State Theatre is located at 1519 Euclid Avenue in downtown Cleveland within the Playhouse Square complex. It seats approximately 3,200 and is one of the largest and most ornate theaters in the touring Broadway circuit. Parking is available in the Playhouse Square parking garage and several nearby lots. The venue is also accessible via the RTA Red Line (Playhouse Square station). The theater is fully ADA accessible with wheelchair seating, assistive listening devices, and accessible restrooms.

Are resale tickets for The Lion King Cleveland safe to buy?

Yes, when purchased through a reputable marketplace. BigStub verifies every seller and every ticket listed on its platform. All purchases are backed by a comprehensive buyer guarantee and supported by dedicated customer service. With the highest Trustpilot rating in the ticket resale industry, BigStub is a reliable option for securing Lion King tickets — especially for premium dates and seats that may no longer be available through primary channels.

Can I resell my Lion King Cleveland tickets if I can’t attend?

If your plans change, resale platforms like BigStub allow ticket holders to list their seats for other fans. The Lion King is one of the most in-demand touring shows in the country, so resale tickets for the Cleveland run tend to find buyers quickly. Always check the original purchase terms regarding transfer and resale policies before listing.

The Lion King Cleveland FAQ

How long is The Lion King musical?

The Lion King runs approximately two hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission. The first act is about 90 minutes and the second act is about 60 minutes.

Is The Lion King appropriate for young children?

The Lion King is generally considered a family-friendly show suitable for ages six and up. Younger children may find some scenes intense, particularly the wildebeest stampede and Scar’s confrontation scenes. A sensory-friendly performance is scheduled for August 1, 2026 at 1:30 PM for families who would benefit from adjusted lighting and sound levels.

What songs are in The Lion King musical?

The score features beloved songs from the 1994 animated film including Circle of Life, I Just Can’t Wait to Be King, Be Prepared, Hakuna Matata, and Can You Feel the Love Tonight, all written by Elton John and Tim Rice. The stage production also includes additional songs like Shadowland, Endless Night, and He Lives in You, composed by Lebo M, Mark Mancina, and Jay Rifkin.

Where is the KeyBank State Theatre?

The KeyBank State Theatre is located at 1519 Euclid Avenue in downtown Cleveland, within the Playhouse Square performing arts complex. It is accessible by car (multiple parking garages nearby) and public transit via the RTA Red Line’s Playhouse Square station.

How many seats does the KeyBank State Theatre have?

The KeyBank State Theatre has a seating capacity of approximately 3,200, making it one of the largest theaters on the Broadway touring circuit. Seating sections include orchestra, mezzanine, and balcony levels, all offering views of the stage.

What is the performance schedule for The Lion King in Cleveland?

The engagement runs July 8 through August 16, 2026. Regular performances are Tuesdays through Fridays at 7:30 PM, Saturdays at 1:30 PM and 7:30 PM, and Sundays at 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM. There are also Thursday matinees on July 9 and July 30 at 1:30 PM.

Is there parking near the KeyBank State Theatre?

Yes, the Playhouse Square parking garage is directly adjacent to the theater complex. Several additional lots and garages are located within a short walk on Euclid Avenue and surrounding streets. Pre-purchasing parking online through the Playhouse Square website is recommended for popular performances.

Can I get group tickets for The Lion King Cleveland?

Playhouse Square offers group ticket rates for parties of 10 or more. Contact the Playhouse Square group sales department at 216-640-8600 or visit their website for pricing and available dates. Group tickets are subject to availability and are best reserved well in advance for popular shows like The Lion King.

What makes The Lion King stage show different from the movie?

Director Julie Taymor created an entirely original theatrical experience using life-size puppetry, elaborate masks, and African-inspired design that transforms actors into animals on stage. The show includes additional songs not in the film, extended dance sequences, and a visual spectacle — including the iconic opening procession through the aisles — that gives the story a completely different dimension from the animated version.

Has The Lion King won any awards?

The Lion King won six Tony Awards in 1998 including Best Musical, and Julie Taymor became the first woman to win the Tony for Best Direction of a Musical. The show has also won Grammy Awards, Olivier Awards, and numerous other honors. It has grossed more than $10 billion worldwide, making it the highest-grossing entertainment title in box office history.