Disney UK Plans 3D Release for The Lion King

LONDON: The Walt Disney Company UK is celebrating the 5,000th performance of The Lion King stage show at The London Lyceum next month, to be followed by a four-week engagement of the film shown in Disney Digital 3D in cinemas nationwide and later on Sky 3D.

The Lion King in 3D hits theaters on October 7. The film then heads to Disney Blu-ray 3D, Disney Blu-ray and DVD on November 7. The Lion King will make its U.K. 3D TV premiere in December on Sky 3D. It arrives on Disney Cinemagic in early 2012.

Diego Lerner, the president of The Walt Disney Company UK and EMEA, said: “From the moment The Lion King was first released it became an instant Disney classic, with people the world over falling in love with the characters and story. This year Disney will bring The Lion King to life for everyone across the U.K. and Ireland through a diverse range of entertainment experiences. By creating this celebration of one of our best-loved stories we are giving new generations the chance to fall in love with this epic and enduring story.”

Thomas Schumacher, the president of the Disney Theatrical Group and executive producer of The Lion King film, added, “In creating The Lion King nearly 20 years ago, an army of brilliant creators and animators brought to life characters that live in the hearts and minds of legions of fans. The timeless tale of family and friendship continues to thrill audiences in every format it conquers, and we are enormously proud that new generations continue to adopt it as their own.”