5Q: The Lion King – Khalifa White

The Lion King has dazzled audiences for decades and now the show that has won more than 70 major international awards (including six Tony Awards and a Grammy) is returning to the Orpheum Theatre. Whether it’s the fusion of pop music and distinctive African sounds, the elaborate sets, or the intricate costuming, The Lion King continues to sell out theaters across the globe.

Khalifa White will take the stage as Nala, the lioness warrior princess. Those are big paws to fill: the likes of Beyoncé, Gabrielle Union, Heather Headley, and Kissy Simmons have played Nala in film, TV, and on stage. White describes Nala as a young woman standing in her truth, “a character who will do whatever it takes to honor and protect her people and a character who is open to taking a chance at love.”

You’ve spoken a bit in interviews about self-care and being your authentic self. How do you make sure you are authentically bringing yourself to whatever it is you do, whether it’s artistic or not?

By checking in with myself day-to-day or even moment-to-moment. Reminding myself that we all have distinct qualities and nuances that make each of us who we are and that it’s ok to embrace those qualities.

You said before that the journey to Nala was challenging, but rewarding. What can you share about that journey and how it felt to hear that you were going to be the next Nala?

My journey with Nala began with the theme parks and, although Nala became a dream role, I wasn’t certain I’d be able to achieve it. I’d auditioned for the role as well as other tracks that understudy Nala multiple times over the course of about five years and did my best to take the notes that had been previously given to me by the creative team. I was beyond happy when I got the offer. I couldn’t believe it was happening, especially after the pandemic. I am still so grateful. I cried and called my mom after my agent told me the news.

Some people think of Nala as a small character, but she is a fierce, tenacious, and a guiding force. She has also been played by amazing, powerful actresses both on stage and in film. How does it feel to continue that legacy? How do you see Nala and what are things that you bring into the character?

It’s an honor to step into a role that’s been played by so many amazing artists. I had the privilege of meeting the original [Broadway] Nala, superstar Heather Headley. And it made such a huge impact in my life. I see Nala as a young lioness who takes risks and fights in spite of what fears she may have. She’s a character who will do what’s required.

You have the unique experience of sharing a character with others in the same show. Do you do any work with the actresses portraying young Nala in the first half of the show to help create the character and lay the foundation for your adult version?

I love the young actresses who portray Young Nala. They bring their own fierceness to the role. They start the race in the beginning and pass the baton to me. I like to watch as much of Act 1 during dress rehearsals as I can to get a feel for how they establish their versions of Young Nala, as I’m in makeup when they’re on stage during a regular show. What is pretty cool is how we share personality traits on and off stage. I couldn’t ask for better people with whom to share this role.

Previous actresses in this role have shared how they learn something about themselves from Nala. What have you taken away from Nala?

Nala has taught me to remember who I am both on stage and off. That there is joy on the other side of a challenge. The importance of community and remembering that everyone has their place and it takes a collective to make real magic. I’ve learned so much from my company members both on and off stage and hope to inspire someone the way I was inspired. 

BONUS: Read the 5Q with Darian Sanders, playing Simba in the North American tour of The Lion King, here.

The Lion King runs at the Orpheum Theatre from March 27–April 28. For more information and to purchase tickets, head to www.hennepintheatretrust.org.