Filipino Performer Erick Arenas Shines In Hamburg’s The Lion King

By Jessica Gross, TFCN Contributor

HAMBURG, Germany—Filipino talent shines on the world stage through Erick Arenas, the only Filipino performer in the German production of Disney’s The Lion King (König der Löwen). For the past three years, Arenas has been part of the Hamburg ensemble, bringing pride and passion from the Philippines.

The Hamburg Lion King show has been running for 24 years, making it one of the longest-running and most loved musicals in Germany. With its famous music, beautiful puppets, and strong African-inspired designs, the show attracts millions of visitors to the Stage Theater im Hafen Hamburg Arenas plays one of the hyenas, the funny but scary trio that follows the villain Scar. Scar is Mufasa’s younger brother and Simba’s uncle.

Sometimes, Arenas also performs as the giraffe, a very difficult role because he must walk on stilts and control a tall puppet at the same time. Like many cast members, Arenas learned how to wear the show’s big animal masks, which need strength, balance, and emotion. For him, the best reward is seeing children smile with amazement and watching adults feel like kids again.

The Hamburg cast includes performers from South Africa, Europe, Asia, and many other places. This mix of cultures makes the show richer and more exciting.

To join The Lion King, performers must pass a very difficult audition process. They must show their skills in singing, dancing, acting, and using masks and puppets.

Arenas shared with TFCN that his own audition story was full of surprises.

He said: “Nag audition po ako online, tapos ininvite nila akong mag audition. Syempre natuwa ako kasi di lahat ng audition online ay pinatawag… Para talaga sa akin ang role na yon.”

(“I auditioned online, and they invited me to a live audition. I was so happy because not everyone who auditions online gets called back… That role was really meant for me.”)

This experience taught him that the right chance will come if you keep trying.

Arenas is also proud to be the first Filipino ever hired by the Hamburg company.

He shared: “Syempre proud na proud talaga ako dahil ako ang kauna-unahang Pinoy na na-hire ng company… May tiwala talaga ako sa talent ko at pinush ko.”

(“Of course I’m very proud because I’m the first Filipino hired by the company… I believed in my talent, and I pushed for it.”)

Even with all his success, Arenas still dreams of playing Simba someday. He continues to train hard and improve his skills. His journey was not easy. He faced homesickness, cultural changes, stressful auditions, and the pressure of performing internationally.

“It’s never simple,” he said. “But every challenge shaped me. You have to believe in your dream even when it feels impossible.”

Arenas also wants to inspire young Filipino artists. His message is: “Sa mga aspiring artists, go for it… Ginusto ko ito kaya awa ng Dios nandito ako.”

“To all aspiring artists, go for it… I wanted this career, and by God’s grace, I’m here.”

As The Lion King celebrates more than 20 years in Hamburg, Arenas stands as a symbol of Filipino strength and determination. His journey teaches one simple message:

“Strive for more. Keep training. Keep dreaming. Your moment will come.”