7NEWS catches up with one of the stars of The Lion King

GREENVILLE, S.C. (WSPA) – With The Lion King headed to Greenville in less than a month, 7NEWS caught up with one of the stars of the show.

Mukelisiwe Goba plays Rafiki in the North American tour of The Lion King. She has been with the show for more than 10 years, first in an ensemble role before eventually becoming Rafiki.

Goba said while the role isn’t an easy one, she’s trying her best to make sure that when people leave the theater they understand Rafiki.

To prepare for the very physical role, the native of South Africa said she will wake up each day around 11 a.m. to hit the gym and stretch before warming up her voice.

Once she arrives at the theater, she spends half an hour in makeup before stretching again and praying with other cast members.

Goba said she also spends a few minutes alone on stage to pray.

“I don’t need anybody there. They know,” Goba said. “I just need to be alone and then pray before we start.”

When asked why The Lion King resonates so much with audiences over the last 27 years, Goba cited the music.

“The drums, the storyline. This show, it doesn’t matter how old you are,” Goba said. “It resonates with everyone’s lifestyle.”

The Lion King will be at the Peace Center in downtown Greenville from September 11 through September 29.

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