‘Lion King’ goes off stage and into Upstate school

GREENVILLE, S.C. (WSPA) – Students at a Greenville elementary school got a taste of Broadway thanks to some helping hands from The Peace Center.

While “ The Lion King ” is in town through September 29 , some cast and crew members spoke to nearly 150 Green Charter Elementary School students about the arts.

The Peace Center’s Arts Education program is helping students learn about new cultural traditions through music, dance and theater.

Actor Forest VanDyke, who plays Banzai in the show, said events involving the arts and education are important because it allows children to see and try things they’ve never done before.

“The messages of ‘Lion King’ are to go after your dreams and believe in yourself when things are really difficult, so I hope seeing the show has inspired them to do that,” VanDyke remarked. “But also seeing us up here talking about our own experiences can inspire them to go after their dreams, whether it’s in theater or some other field they’re interested in. I think inspiration is really the goal.”

Karl Shymanovitz, the Music Director for The Lion King, said he hopes the students saw they can make a career out of this.

“I know that would be important for me,” Shymanovitz said. ” I remember when people would come to talk to us.”

Shymanovitz said that seeing the impact the show has on the audience is one of the best parts of the job.

Jason Daunter, Vice President of Arts Education and Community Engagement at the Peace Center, echoed Shymanovitz’ sentiments.

“I think ‘The Lion King’ totally shows everyone is represented on that stage,” Daunter said. “You can see yourself in the show. No, you’re not a rhinoceros or an elephant but you can connect with the story.”

Daunter said having ‘Lion King’ back in the area has been great for the Peace Center, especially because bast and crew were able to connect with the community.

“Part of the Peace Centers goal is to connect professional artists with students in schools and show them that arts can truly change lives,” Daunter continued.

‘The Lion King’ performances will run through Sunday.

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