The Lion King Celebrates Record-Breaking Sold-Out Premiere Engagement in Montreal

 

TOURING ENGAGEMENT IS THE HIGHEST GROSSING THEATRICAL PRODUCTION TO EVER PLAY THE SALLE WILFRID-PELLETIER 

(September 7, 2011) Disney’s THE LION KING continues to reign across North America with a record-breaking sold-out four-week premiere engagement in Montreal which concluded on Sunday, September 4.  The engagement grossed over $7 million at the box office and entertained more than 85,000 patrons during 32 performances at the Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, making it the highest-grossing theatrical production in the venue’s history. 

It is estimated that THE LION KING generated a $24 million economic benefit to Montreal from travel, hotels, restaurants, parking and other businesses patronized by both theatergoers and production staff.  This figure is based upon a report from the Touring Broadway League, the official trade organization for Broadway and their North American Tours. The report states that on average, Broadway tours contribute to the local metropolitan area’s economy an economic impact 3.5 times the gross ticket sales. 

“evenko is extremely proud to be part of THE LION KING’s success in Montreal. We are delighted to have brought this internationally renowned Broadway musical to Montrealers” said Jacques Aubé, Executive Vice-President and General Manager of evenko. “The success of THE LION KING had a substantial impact on Montreal’s economy and community and made Broadway accessible for Montrealers and tourists in the city this summer. Working with Disney was a wonderful experience and we hope to do it again in the near future.”

“THE LION KING has been celebrating successful engagements throughout Canada this summer and we are especially proud of our record-breaking run in Montreal,” said Jack Eldon, Vice President, Domestic, Disney Theatrical Productions. “We are overwhelmed by the enduring response to the show and thank the city of Montreal for an incredible engagement.”

This North American National Tour has been seen by nearly 13 million theatergoers and grossed over $834 million to date.  Enjoying its ninth year on the road, THE LION KING continues to celebrate unparalleled achievements and delight new audiences throughout North America.  The current schedule is listed below. 

-- Posted September 7, 2011