Twyneseia Graise shines in Disney’s The Lion King Jr. in Broadway Jr. Camp at New Stage

CLAIBORNE COUNTY, Miss. (VDN) — A rising star from Claiborne County is taking on one of Disney’s most iconic villains this month. Seventeen-year-old Twyneseia Graise, daughter of Twyla and Marcus Graise, has been cast as Scar in The Lion King Jr., a youth production staged by New Stage Theatre in Jackson.

Performances run July 10–13 as part of the Broadway Junior Summer Camp Intensive, which brings together students in grades six through 12 from across Mississippi.

With sharp wit, a commanding presence, and a flair for manipulation, Twyneseia’s performance as Scar drives much of the story’s tension and conflict. It’s a complex and dynamic role that offers an exciting challenge for this young performer.

“This show is not only a celebration of music, movement, and culture”, says Education Director, Xerron X. Mingo, “… it’s a powerful opportunity to bring our community together. It highlights the strength of unity, the importance of identity, and the beauty of storytelling with the circle of life. Watching young performers connect with this material has been heart-warming and I can’t wait for them to share it with their families and neighbors.”

Twyneseia, an incoming freshman at the University of Mississippi, will perform Friday, July 11, and Sunday, July 13.

Dates: July 10–13
Showtimes:
• 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday
• 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Location: New Stage Theatre, Jackson
Tickets: $20 adults / $10 children
Buy: newstagetheatre.com or call (601) 948-3533
Note: Security will be provided at all performance

The Broadway Junior Summer Camp Intensive is part of New Stage Theatre’s Arts-in-Education program, which provides acting instruction and master classes in stage combat, directing, sound design and more. Students ages 11–18 take part in this immersive training every summer.

The 2025 production is sponsored by the Walker Foundation and the Feild Co-Operative Association.

For details, contact (601) 948-3533 ext. 232 or email education@newstagetheatre.com.