Go Live Theatre has collaborated with John Lyon’s Charity to host a special relaxed performance of Disney’s The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre on Wednesday 4 November 2026. Celebrating 35 years of grant-giving by John Lyon’s Charity, the sold-out West End takeover will welcome over 2,000 children and young people from across nine North and West London boroughs.
Supported by a grant from John Lyon’s Charity, the specially curated show offers British Sign Language interpretation, captioning, and audio descriptions. Designed to ensure maximum accessibility, the matinee caters to pupils from special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) schools, alongside young people with neurodivergence, sensory sensitivities, and other access needs. The heavily subsidized tickets were offered at just £10, with the event selling out completely and generating a substantial waiting list.
Dr. Lynne Guyton, CEO of John Lyon’s Charity, highlighted that the organization is proud to celebrate its 35th anniversary by providing young audiences with access to world-class theatre, emphasizing that every child should experience the arts regardless of background. Sita McIntosh, CEO of Go Live Theatre, added that the charity is honored to partner on the event, reaffirming their core belief that theatre should be accessible to everyone.
Formerly known as Mousetrap Theatre Projects, Go Live Theatre has enabled more than 275,000 young people from disadvantaged or vulnerable backgrounds to experience live performances since 1997. The organization pioneered the West End's first relaxed performance in 2012 with Shrek the Musical and has since expanded its accessible programming across major productions including Hamilton, Wicked, MAMMA MIA!, and The Devil Wears Prada.
In addition to this landmark November event, Disney continues to support accessible theatre initiatives by offering regular accessible performances for The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre throughout the year.
