Experiencing The Lion King on Broadway (Attending performances (musical)) – Jordan Fischer

Watching The Lion King on Broadway deepened my understanding of how theatre can merge art, culture, and intellect. Having studied the show’s development beforehand, I was able to analyze it not just as entertainment but as a layered cultural text. The production’s use of African symbolism, costume design, and movement reflected intentional efforts to preserve and reinterpret heritage through performance.

Rafiki’s character stood out as a powerful representation of the African griot tradition, blending spirituality, wisdom, and humor. This interpretation connected directly to class discussions about storytelling as a tool for both education and cultural continuity. I also found the ensemble’s transformation into elements of the scenery, such as animals and natural forms, to be a strong reminder of theatre’s ability to communicate ideas visually and symbolically.

This experience contributed to my participation in Spelman’s intellectual community by allowing me to engage critically with performance as a form of scholarship. Discussing the production afterward with peers encouraged deeper conversations about representation, tradition, and how African-inspired art is received on mainstream stages. Engaging in that dialogue reflected the essence of the Spelman sisterhood by using shared learning experiences to expand understanding, challenge perspectives, and celebrate culture through a collective intellectual lens.