The Bord Gáis Theatre has condemned the shocking behaviour.
Several perfomers and members of the crew of The Lion King were subjected to racial abuse on a recent journey home from the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre in Dublin, according to a statement from the organisers.
The abuse directed towards those involved was described as “vile” and “appalling” and the incident has been reported to An Garda Síochána.
Support measures have also been put in place for those affected in a show that has been a huge hit since opening in the theatre on New Year’s Eve.
“We are saddened to share that several of the performers and crew of The Lion King, currently performing at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre in Dublin, were recently subjected to racial abuse on their journey home from the theatre,” the statement read.
“It is shocking that something so vile and appalling happened to our colleagues who have brought such joy to thousands of theatregoers since the show opened on 31 December.
“Bord Gáis Energy Theatre and Disney Theatrical Productions strongly condemn all forms of discrimination.
“We fully stand with the performers and crew and have put plans in place to support those affected by this incident.
“We also urge that those responsible be held accountable and have reported this incident to An Garda Síochána.”
— Bord Gáis Energy Theatre (@BGETheatre) January 31, 2022
“Over the last 25 years, The Lion King has been a beacon of optimism and inclusion across the globe,” the statement added.
“Its very presence and the vision of the world that our audience experiences while watching the show, is in itself an instrument to change hearts and minds.
“It is in this spirit that Bord Gáis Energy Theatre and Disney Theatrical Productions are making a donation to the Irish Network Against Racism, which is committed to combatting racism and all related forms of discrimination in Ireland.”
The last performance of The Lion King in a six-week run at the Bord Gáis Theatre is due to take place this Friday, 4 February.
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