Final answer:
The Lion King musical saw its first Broadway performance in 1997, marking a significant chapter in theatrical history, influenced by an evolution from vaudeville to the rise of megamusicals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Lion King musical, a prodigious hit in the realm of theatrical performances, first premiered on Broadway in 1997. Reflecting on a time when musical theatre emerged from earlier traditions such as minstrel shows and vaudeville, the performance of the Lion King was part of a wave of megamusicals that swept through Broadway, radically changing the commercial and artistic landscape. With the early traditions setting the stage for what was to come, developments in the late 20th century, especially the prodigious success of shows like A Chorus Line and Cats, set the stage for the Lion King's debut, which has established its legacy as one of the most recognized and beloved theatrical experiences.