Prince of the jungle fulfils dream

By RENEE KIRIONA

When Turanga Merito was 15, he said he would grow up to be a star. Now, at 20, he is the king of Australia's biggest theatre production.

Last week the Rotorua man landed the lead role as the adult Simba in Disney's The Lion King - a show which attracts at least 16,000 people each week.

For the next 12 months, Merito will put on a huge lion mask and sing and dance eight times a week.

While humbled by the appointment, the all-round performer said being "prince of the jungle" could have its frightening moments.

"I'm so humbled by all of it but it gets a little scary sometimes," he said. "Scary because most of the stuff I've wished for has come true. Sometimes I wonder how did this Maori boy from Okere Falls in Rotorua get here?"

Merito moved to Sydney a year ago to be understudy to Auckland's Vincent Harder, who has left the role to raise a family.

In that time he has worked with some of the best in show business, including the production's director Julie Taymor - a critically acclaimed Broadway director whose movies include Frida and Titus - plus singer Elton John and composer Tim Rice.

"I've had question and answer talks with Elton John and Tim Rice but it's Julie who I've worked more intimately with. She's amazing and with her help I've come to know my talents better."

Merito is one of 52 actors, singers and dancers in the production, selected from thousands who auditioned.

While Sydney's Capitol Theatre is a long way from Rotorua, there are enough New Zealanders working there to remind him of where is from.

"There's a strong influence of Kiwis in this production and we are all well-grounded, but because the opportunities are better for us here we've had to leave home."

Merito first rose to popularity in the local music industry three years ago when he won the showcase section at the prestigious Lockwood Aria in Rotorua and when he performed at Christmas in the Park.

KIWIS IN THE KINGDOM

Of the nine principal roles in the Lion King theatre production, five are played by New Zealanders:

* Turanga Merito of Rotorua - Simba

* Tyson Eketone of Hamilton - young Simba

* Jay Laga'aia of Auckland - Mufasa

* Bella Kalolo of Christchurch and Cherine Peck of the Manawatu - Shenzi, one of the hyenas

* Jamie McGregor of Upper Hutt - Timon, the meerkat