The Prince of Wales met actor Roger Wright, who was wearing a huge mask to make his West End debut as the lion king Simba in the show, set to be the year's biggest hit on the London stage.

Taymor designed the masks and costumes for the show

The musical is based on Disney's 1994 Oscar-winning film and has already won 25 awards on Broadway, where it opened in 1997.

Roger Wright, 24, told the prince he was excited rather than nervous about his role.

"The prince asked me if I was in good voice and I told him I was and rather cheekily I asked him if he sang. He said he used to before his voice broke.

"And he said he hoped my mask wouldn't get too heavy during the performance."

Tony award winner in New York

Director Julie Taymor, who also met the prince on Monday, made Broadway history by becoming the first woman to win the Tony Award for best director of a musical.

Using masks and puppets, the actors play the part of animals to recreate the story of Simba as he struggles to become king.

The score includes music from Sir Elton John and Sir Tim Rice, as well as additional music from South African composer Lebo M. This makes the production markedly different from the cartoon original.

Disney has reportedly booked the Lyceum Theatre, where the musical opens on 19 October, for five years.

The charity performance was in aid of the Prince's Trust charity.