Omaha Performing Arts was honored a few weeks ago with a special gift from Disney Theatrical Productions.
OPA received a life-sized replica of one of the Lioness masks worn in Disney’s The Lion King. Joan Squires, Executive Director for Omaha Performing Arts, says the mask is a replica of what was originally designed by Michael Curry and Tony-Award winning director Julie Taymor.
Squires says the mask was enclosed in a Lucite case and is hanging in the lobby of the Orpheum.
"It’s acknowledgement and recognition for the tremendous partnership we have had with Disney Theatrical and the fabulous ticket sales from this most recent run of “The Lion King.” So it’s Disney’s way of honoring us. We were thrilled because I know they’ve only done one or two of these in their history. And we were the first market here, for this last run in North America, to receive this honor.”
Squires says the inscription on the mask reads, “Lioness Mask presented to Omaha Performing Arts in recognition of 32 sold-out performances of The Lion King, March 12-April 7, 2013.”
The four-week return engagement of the musical grossed more than 5.6 million at the box office.