Stage Capsules

The Lion King On its second visit to St. Louis, this Disney juggernaut retains its profusion of color and movement. Dance, mime, puppetry and masks — all performed by a cast of 49 actors — fuse together to bring to life a riff on Hamlet (nasty uncle kills noble king; confused son must hear from Daddy's ghost before seeking revenge) removed to the African savanna. The show provides a dazzling immersion into the potentials of creative imagination. First-time partakers are in for a splendid treat, though repeat viewers might begin to see through the evening's incandescent shallowness. Performed through July 29 at the Fox Theatre, 527 North Grand Boulevard. Tickets are $28 to $75. Call 314-534-1111 or visit www.fabulousfox.com.

— Dennis Brown