Disney is making big moves on the Chinese market, headed by it’s Lion King. The musical production is being moved up from it’s home in Melbourne, Australia to Shanghai in time for the July 18th opening at the Shanghai Grand Theater.

This is all in good effect, as musical theater seems to be growing in interest with the Chinese, as witnessed by the success of the Phantom of the Opera last year.

Tickets are on sale and will set you back 100-800RMB depending on the time and day. You have 100 chances to see the show, as they will have 100 performances.

Disney has been a bit lax in it’s China operations until now. An article highlights this:

Disney’s Donald Duck and other classic characters enjoy wide recognition in China. But many observers say the media giant failed to take advantage of its position earlier this decade, largely sitting on the sidelines while Viacom, News Corp., Time Warner and Sony Corp.’s entertainment arm opened TV stations and filmed entertainment joint ventures in China.

Also, it is unclear whether Disney is still in talks with Shanghai about building their new theme park here. One way or another, Disney intends on making their presence felt in Shanghai and China.