Sing Hakuna Matata At Lion King

For the past nine years, Nick Cordileone has helped transport audiences to the vistas of the African savanna by portraying Timon, the meerkat companion of lion cub Simba in the touring production of The Lion King. “It has a fairly simple story but it’s one we’ve all been through,” says the classically trained actor of the show, which visits the Playhouse Square’s State Theatre Aug. 7-Sept. 1. “There’s loss, redemption and some Greek tragedy stuff mixed with very fun, relatable characters,” Cordileone says of the highest grossing musical in the history of Broadway. With detailed costumes, carved masks and amazing makeup, the musical’s actors create an unforgettable presence on stage, keeping each performance fresh for Cordileone and attracting new audiences in the process. “We find people coming to our show who have never been to any kind of theater before. This is a great kind of entry point for them.” 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-241-6000, playhousesquare.org