Nationally recognized performer scheduled to assist local students

Sophia Sharypov – Mustangs Ahead

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) - When people think of Broadway, they picture the bright lights of New York City. But for students at Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS), Broadway will feel a little closer, because Darian Sanders, who plays Simba in the national touring company of “The Lion King,” will be on campus.

Sanders will host clinics with Mustangs Oct. 6 and 7.

Sanders’ journey to Broadway is anything but ordinary. He didn’t step into theater until age 33, long after a life in music ministry. He’s performed as Jesus in “Jesus Christ Superstar,” Joseph in “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” Seaweed in “Hairspray,” Curtis in “Dream Girls” and many others.

But what makes his story even more remarkable is that despite performing one of the most iconic roles on stage, he chooses to share his experiences with schools.

Why Lakewood Ranch? Sanders says the answer is simple: community. While performing over the summer, he made many connections.

“When I’m not spending time with my amazing wife, Jess & my son, Titus, you can find me leading worship around the country, sharing my story at conferences and working on writing and recording more original music!” said Sanders.

One conversation led to another, and soon Sanders was working directly with Lakewood Ranch, planning on coaching students and connecting with the arts department.

“I like putting myself out there and helping the community,” he said.

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“Theater is just like school — it takes a whole team. You’ve got the lights, the sound, the people behind the scenes. Every role matters, just like every student matters.”

Sanders doesn’t just teach scales or stage blocking. He teaches perspective. For students nervous about auditions, presentations, or even trying out for sports, he keeps it simple: just do it.

“Everyone gets nervous. I still get nervous in audition rooms,” he admits. “But nerves just mean you care. The key is to breathe, step into it, and remember you don’t have to be perfect; you just have to be you.”

It’s advice that stretches beyond the stage. Whether students are standing up to give a speech in English class or stepping onto the basketball court, Sanders believes those moments mirror theater.

“Every performance, every game, every class presentation, it’s unique. That moment will never happen again. The audience, the players, the classmates, we’re all experiencing it together.”

From Pride Rock to Lakewood Ranch’s classrooms, Sanders’ lessons go far beyond the stage, reminding students that their own unique paths can lead to greatness.