appalling Dublin theatre condemns 'vile' racist abuse aimed at The Lion King musical cast

The Bord Gais Energy Theatre has condemned the “vile” racist abuse cast members of The Lion King musical received on their way home from the theatre. 

Performers and crew from The Lion King musical were subjected to racial abuse in Dublin, while on their way home from performing the hit musical.

The musical, which is in the middle of its six-week run in the Bord Gais Energy Theatre, is based off the classic Disney movie.

The theatre said it was “appalling” that those working other show who had brought such joy to thousands of theatregoers since the show opened on December 31 were targeted.

Taking to Twitter the Irish theatre posted a statement condemning the act and offering their support to the performers and crew during the difficult time.

The statement read: “We are saddened to share that several of the performers and crew of The Lion King, currently performing at Bord Gais Energy Theatre in Dublin, were recently subjected to racial abuse on their way home from the theatre.

“It is shocking that something so vile and appalling happened to our colleagues who have brought such joy to thousands of theatregoers since the show opened on December 31.

“Bord Gais Energy Theatre and Disney Theatrical Productions strongly condemn all forms of discrimination.

“We fully stand with the performers and crew and have put plans in place to support those affected by this incident. We also urge that those responsible be held accountable and have reported this incident to An Garda Siochana.’

Continuing, the theatre said The Lion King has "been a beacon of optimism and inclusion across the globe" over the past 25 years’ and "it’s very presence and vision of the world that our audience experiences while watching the show, is in itself an instrument to change hearts and minds".

Going forward both the theatre and Disney plan on making a donation to an anti-racism charity to show their support.

"It is the spirit that Bord Gais Energy Theatre and Disney Theatrical Productions are making a donation to the Irish Network Against Racism, which is committed to combatting racism and all related forms of discrimination in Ireland," Bord Gais Energy Theatre said.