BY MELISSA RUGGIERI/AJC Music Scene

Elton John surprised attendees of “The Lion King” following Sunday night’s performance of the musical.

The Broadway anchor celebrated its 20th anniversary in front of an audience filled with luminaries, including show director-designer Julie Taymor, original "Lion King" star Heather Headley and "Hamilton" star Renee Elise Goldsberry.

John appeared after the curtain call and led the cast in a performance of the show’s signature song, “Circle of Life.”

Following its official opening on Nov. 13, 1997, “The Lion King” earned six Tony Awards, including best musical.

John, who also composed scores for “Billy Elliot,” “Lestat” and “Aida,” is working on the musical adaptation of “The Devil Wears Prada.”

Atlanta theater fans can check out "The Lion King" when it returns to the Fox Theatre Jan. 10-28.

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