Disney’s The Lion King completed its record-breaking run at the Bradford Alhambra last Saturday, having been experienced by more than 80,000 people.

The legendary musical is the largest touring theatre production in UK history and has been experienced by over a million people in the first six cities of its UK tour. The Bradford season formed a centrepiece of the theatre’s 100th birthday celebrations.

In recognition of the record-breaking Bradford run, The Walt Disney Company presented a lioness mask from the production to the Alhambra. The mask, designed by the show’s director, Julie Taymor, is now on permanent display in the theatre foyer.

Analysis of tickets sales show that visitors to the Bradford Alhambra came from across the UK, demonstrating The Lion King’s ability to bring new audiences to the theatre.

Gary Verity, Chief Executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “Yorkshire is fast becoming a leading international cultural hotbed and attracting the calibre of shows like The Lion King to The Alhambra is further proof of this. This has a significant impact on the local economy from everything from hotels to transport and shows our Yorkshire venues are capable of regularly hosting major international productions. These shows pull in visitors from far and wide, who not only get to experience the first class venue, but also our famous Yorkshire welcome and hopefully return again and again.”

Adam Renton, General Manager Bradford Theatres said: “This year is a very special one for the Alhambra Theatre, as it celebrates its 100th anniversary. Hosting Disney’s The Lion King, the biggest show in the Alhambra’s recent history on its only Yorkshire dates, has been a magnificent milestone. To see thousands of happy faces leaving the theatre after every performance has been truly magical.”