The Lion King - Easter Bonnet Competition 2023

The Lion King won the award for best presentation at this year's Easter Bonnet Competition. Cast members India Bolds-Browne and Malcolm Miles Young performed a heartwarming dance that explored a moment in the life of a young couple, set to the spoken word poetry of Shanessa Sweeney. The number cleverly referenced some of the most widely known Broadway shows exclusively written by or starring Black artists. The show’s bonnet fabulously accentuated cast member Lindsey Jackson's natural hair, creating a beautifully abstract structure.
The theater community rallied together once again with spirited skits, dynamic dance and brilliant bonnets as Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS’ Easter Bonnet Competition returned April 24 and 25. The performances celebrated in-theater Red Bucket appeals that raised $3,601,355 for meals and medication, health care and hope for those who need them most.
Bonnet Design: Kenneth Griffin
Choreography: Ray Mercer
Video: Bardo Arts Productions

[@starchristi]

You better write Shanessa, that's right! Shanessa, that's the author and vocal performer of this masterpiece!!! Y'all better dance us onto a comma!!!!!

[@dianeperry5515]

Love this and Congratulations Sis @Shanessa Sweeney on the spoken word! 👏

[@rudolphpalmer4317]

That’s My Acting Teacher!!!! Spitting from the TRUE BRAVE SOUL!!!! SO POWERFUL AND PROFOUND SHANESSA!!!!

[@TheLeadEagle]

Crushed it! All the way fro Dayton, Ohio.

[@ThisisPhillip]

Perfection

[@jadonleahrain9214]

This is perfect

[@Ohhh_thatsel]

YASSSSSS!! This is beautiful

[@thatwheelchairphotog]

Who wrote the spoken word?

[@bcefa]

Shanessa Sweeney.

[@thatwheelchairphotog]

@@bcefa thank you! it's lovely.