‘Lion King’ performers discuss life on stage in visit to library
By Rachel Misenko, Courier-Post Staff
When the doors to a conference room at the Cherry Hill Public Library opened at 7 p.m. on a recent Monday, a flood of children and adults poured into the space.
More than 100 people filled every seat in the room, waiting for an opportunity to speak with three cast members from Disney's "The Lion King."
The performers, part of the cast of the musical at the Academy of Music in Philadelphia through April 24, wasted no time answering questions from the audience during a meet-and-greet program.
"What's it like to be a professional actor?" asked a child in the audience.
"It's an amazing experience, and for me it's even better to be doing it in my hometown," replied Rhea Roderick, a Philadelphia native who played an ensemble lioness in the production. "You get to dance and perform and make people happy. It's a beautiful show."
Roderick was joined by Ben Lipitz, a Cherry Hill High School West graduate who played Pumbaa, and Erynn Marie Dickerson, an actress who played an ensemble lioness.
The event began with a short video montage of the on-stage performance, which included elaborate costumes, puppets and a large cast. Then, audience members were able to engage in a question-and-answer session moderated by Cherry Hill High School East's drama club director Tom Weaver.
"Guests really get to pick the brains of the actors," Weaver said. "You can read their biographies and prepared statements, but to hear something directly from the actors themselves really creates a connection."
Audience members asked everything from how long it takes to get into costume to how parents can be supportive of children interested in acting.
Frank Markowitz, a Cherry Hill resident, brought his 14-year-old daughter Alyssa to the event so she could learn more about the career she wants to pursue.
"When I was little I was a dancer, and I love to perform," Alyssa said. "I love being in shows."
Guests such as Alyssa heard from the actors about the challenges and rewards of being on stage. Roderick offered some words of advice for those in the audience who wanted to become actors.
"Never give up," she said. "If this is your dream, your passion, never give up. I auditioned for this show four times before I became part of the cast."
Dickerson said actors have to be willing to sacrifice to succeed. The trade-off, though, is well worth it, she said.
Lipitz also discussed what it was like to receive his fair share of rejections. Lipitz joined the cast of "The Lion King" eight years ago and has since toured across the country year-round.
The most difficult part of the job, he said, is being away from his family. Lipitz, who now resides in northern Pennsylvania, said the joy he gets from doing something he loves makes it all worthwhile.
"I believe in theater with a capital "T'," Lipitz said. "It's an art that's about transporting an audience and opening their minds and hearts to a new experience."