With its constantly moving menagerie of elephants, giraffes, birds and more, the "Disney's The Lion King" production that roared back to Indianapolis after a four-year hiatus looks cramped on the Murat Centre stage.

However, the story about the exile of Simba, the presumed future king of the jungle, does offer enough vivid visuals and stirring sounds to make the show exciting, at least for this first-time viewer.

Whether those who love the movie will feel the same way depends on each theatergoer. But even though "The Lion King" has been around for more than a decade, it has remained a family favorite. A recent Murat performance was packed with adults and children.

It's possible to appreciate this version of "Lion King" at different levels.

Kids may favor the cute lion cub, Simba (winningly played by Marquis Kofi Rodriguez), and his friend, Nala (Sade Louann Murray).

They'll probably also like the plot that pits these invariably good characters against Simba's seemingly kind but actually evil Uncle Scar, who claims the throne by playing a role in the death of Simba's father, Mufasa, and convincing the young one that it was his fault.

Adults will enjoy the show's complex mix of actors, puppetry, royal intrigue, humor, African dance, and music and lyrics by Elton John and Tim Rice.

As Mufasa, Dionne Randolph seems majestic in public scenes but affectionate toward his son. Tony Freeman plays and manipulates the bird puppet Zazu, the king's close adviser, with wry wit. Timothy Carter plays Scar with menace, snideness and more than a hint of danger.

Although Rodriguez is a small Simba, he was passionate enough that he seemed to fill the Murat stage. His adult counterpart, played by Andre Jackson, is brave and contentious. By comparison, Nala's adult counterpart, played by Dan'Yelle Williamson, seemed reserved.

Four years ago, "Lion King" sold out its run at the Murat, attracting more than 100,000 theatergoers. Tickets still remain for many performances in this run.

'The Lion King'

What: A Broadway Across America Indianapolis production.

When: Various times, Tuesdays through Sun days, through Dec. 28.

Where: Murat Centre, 502 N. New Jersey St.

Bottom line: A fun production equally stimulat ing for visuals and music.