Based on the much-loved animated classic, The Lion King Jr. follows young Simba on his coming of age journey from frisky cub to leader of the Pridelands. This 80-minute, family-friendly musical features hits including “Circle of Life,” “Hakuna Matada,” and “Can You Feel The Love Tonight.” Audiences of all ages will enjoy this funny and touching expedition through the jungle inhabited by hilarious hyenas (Banzai and Shenzi), wily warthogs (Pumbaa) and the always rattled and righteous Zazu.

"This group of young artists excels at comedy and storytelling. We knew this piece would allow us to highlight their gifts as performers. Our version of this tale is rendered with a great amount of imagination and joy," commented Ian Mairs, director for the show. "There is less of a focus on pageantry and more on the human tale which exists at the heart of the story.”

Now celebrating its fourth year, Apex Theatre Studio (a non-profit training center with 501c3 status) fosters young artists with a passion and curiosity for acting, singing, dancing and stagecraft through a series of master classes, intensives, readings and theatrical presentations. The studio is located at 5150 Palm Valley Road Unit 205 and offers a full range of summer classes to support young actors in the Northeast Florida area. Summer classes, intensives and workshop schedules are available at www.apextheatrejax.com.