Malawian lands lead role in ‘The Lion King Musical’
By Bayana Chunga:
Twenty-six year old Blantyre-born Owen Killapuseh Chaponda has landed the lead role of Simba in The Lion King Musical, arguably the world’s biggest theatrical show run by Disney World.
The Lion King has been running for 24 years and will potentially have Chaponda lead the cast to the show’s 25th anniversary next year.
A relation to celebrated comedian Daliso, he said he has always dreamt of playing this role.
“I am super excited. I am not just representing my family but also my country. It is even exciting in that I am the first Malawian to lead such an iconic role,” the youthful star, said with enthusiasm.
The Lion King opened yesterday in United Kingdom.
Chaponda did his education at Epsom Junior and High School and The Brit School of Performing Arts for two years with the likes of Adele, Jessie J, Tom Holland and Bird Conservatoire – a scholarship student, graduating with a First Honours Degree in Musical Theatre and Dance.
“I have always had passion for acting and dance and singing since I was a little child. I finished university and went into my first professional show at the age of 20 and then going on to star in numerous projects in stage, Television and films,” he said.
