Nick Cordileone as Timon & Danny Grumich as Pumbaa. The Lion King. ©Disney. Photo by Matthew Murphy

When The Lion King roars into Orlando this month from April 23 through May 18, 2025 at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, it brings with it an unforgettable cast — including Danny Grumich, the performer behind everyone’s favorite warthog, Pumbaa. We caught up with Danny ahead of the nearly four-week run to talk about puppets, backstage antics, and living life with a little “Hakuna Matata.”

This is such an exciting moment for Orlando audiences — what’s your process for getting into character as Pumbaa?

It’s definitely different than any show I’ve done before, especially physically. The puppet itself is over eight feet long and weighs around 50 pounds, and with the costume and wig, it’s closer to 55 pounds I’m carrying around on stage. I had soreness in places I didn’t know existed for the first few weeks!

It’s a balance between honoring the iconic voice everyone knows from the animated film while also making it my own. That’s been really fun — blending those two aspects together.

Do you find it easier or harder to get laughs when you’re in that elaborate costume?

Oh, much easier. The puppet is incredible. There’s so much I can do with the facial features and mechanics inside. I’ve also had a lot of freedom from our directors to explore my own beats and bits. It’s not just “say this line, move here” — I get to really play and find what works for me.

Do you have a favorite moment in the show?

“Hakuna Matata” is always a crowd favorite and a blast to perform. But I also love the finale — it’s the first time I’m on stage with the entire cast, and it feels like a real celebration. Then there’s the “He Lives in You” reprise. I’m not in it, but I watch from the wings every night. It gives me chills.

What surprised you most about rehearsing for The Lion King?

Just how timeless the show is. Even after nearly 30 years, the puppetry and original designs by Julie Taymor still hold up. It’s magical. I also expected things to be rigid, like a machine — but it wasn’t. They really encouraged me to bring myself into the role.

Give us a peek behind the curtain — what’s it like backstage?

It’s organized chaos in the best way. We’ve got around 100 people backstage at any time, and it’s like a third act no one ever sees. Quick changes, flying set pieces — it’s a full-on operation. And the cast is so close. It feels like family.

How did you land the role of Pumbaa? Was this a dream role?

Definitely. I first submitted for it back in 2020 and kept trying to get in front of the casting team. It wasn’t until last summer that I finally got the chance. I auditioned, and in September I got the call that I’d be joining the tour. It had been three years in the making — a real dream come true.

What inspired you to pursue theater in the first place?

My grandfather, Jim Grumich, was a high school English and drama teacher in St. Louis. I did my first show at age five with him — South Pacific. From there, I grew up doing community theater and rediscovered my passion in college. My mentor, Susan Procter at Rockhurst University, really pushed me to audition professionally. I’ve been in New York for 10 years now, and it’s been a journey.

What advice would you give someone hoping to follow in your footsteps?

You don’t need to go to the “biggest and best” theater school. If you love what you do and believe it’s what you’re meant to do — keep showing up. Keep hustling. You’ll hear a lot of “no”s before a “yes,” but persistence pays off.

Last question — do you live by the philosophy of “Hakuna Matata”?

I actually used to say “no worries” all the time even before this role! So yes, I try to live by that. Life’s a mix of ups and downs — I just roll with it and trust things will work out.

More About The Lion King

Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap. The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. This is Disney’s The Lion King, making its triumphant return to the Walt Disney Theater!

More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular – one of the most breathtaking and beloved productions ever to grace the stage.

Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, The Lion King brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. Tony Award®-winning director Julie Taymor brings to life a story filled with hope and adventure set against an amazing backdrop of stunning visuals. The Lion King also features the extraordinary work of Tony Award®-winning choreographer Garth Fagan and some of Broadway’s most recognizable music, crafted by Tony Award®-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice.

There is simply nothing else like The Lion King.