Still time to catch creative costumes of ‘The Lion King’

Don't tell us you were that Las Vegas local who, surrounded by the usual embarrassment of entertainment riches, saw "The Lion King" opening in May 2009 and said, "Yeah, it would be good to see that some day."

Now only 13 performances remain between Saturday and Dec. 30, before Cirque du Soleil claims yet another theater, this time for a permanent installation of its touring Michael Jackson tribute.

Both have elephant costumes designed by Michael Curry. But "The Lion King" is the one likely to remain synonymous with Curry's career, for the way he and director Julie Taymor brought abstract, ritual theater into mainstream Disney culture.

The rhythmic African elements of the story shine through more than they did in the animated movie, making this "King" a musical where youngsters provide a cover story for adults to see it again.

Contact reporter Mike Weatherford at mweatherford@ reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0288.