Student Spotlight: Annika Franklin and Her Path to Broadway’s The Lion King

Annika Franklin, an 11-year-old singer, dancer and actor from the AdventHealth School of the Arts at the Dr. Phillips Center, is making waves as a young performer. With her talent beyond her years and tireless dedication, Annika is on her way to make her mark on Broadway in the legendary production of The Lion King.

Annika's involvement in the AdventHealth School of the Arts began in 2020 when she started attending programs at the Dr. Phillips Center. Embracing every opportunity to immerse herself in the world of performing arts, Annika became a member of the Quarter Notes and participated in the popular Take It from the Top summer program shortly before her move to New York. She recalls sharing the stage with Broadway icon Eden Espinosa in the program when she was just 8 years old. The experience became her favorite memory at Dr. Phillips Center, fueling her passion for the stage and driving her on a course of following her dreams.

These opportunities played a crucial role in preparing Annika for her upcoming Broadway debut. Through guidance and support, Annika blossomed as a performer, sharpening her skills and building her confidence on stage. As she stepped into the audition for The Lion King, she felt prepared to showcase her talent to the world.

When she first learned she landed the role of Young Nala, Annika was overwhelmed with joy that she had been cast in one of Broadway’s longest-running shows. (Serendipity seemed to be at play as she was assigned to perform "I Just Can't Wait to be King" as a solo piece during a class at the Dr. Phillips Center!)

She expressed she was in “absolute shock” and shed tears of joy that her hard work had come to fruition. She shares that taking part in the 26-year-old show will allow her the opportunity to work alongside and learn from exceptional professionals within the theater industry.

Looking ahead, Annika has big dreams of fulfilling hearty roles like Lydia from Beetlejuice the musical or one of the iconic queens in Six. These empowering characters fuel her creative fire, and stories like these are what Annika loves most about the performing arts.

“I love how inclusive musical theater is. Everyone is very accepting no matter who you are or what you like. Your musical theater family becomes a second family with friendships and memories that last a lifetime.”

To the young actors seeking to pursue a career in the performing arts, Annika advises to "never give up, work hard, and continue to follow your dreams!"

To learn more about the Dr. Phillips Center and AdventHealth partnership, visit wellnessandarts.com.