Stars of The Lion King who were subjected to racial abuse, homophobic slurs and threats of violence insist that the show will go on and vowed to continue to perform.
Cast and crew of the Disney musical were verbally abused by a gang of male youths while walking on Hanover Street East in Dublin at around 11pm last Friday.
The performers and crew members had just left the nearby Bord Gais Energy Theatre where the stage show has been running since December 31. The production runs until this Friday.
Members of the Lion King cast and crew come from the UK, South Africa and France as well as Ireland.
Actor Stephenson Ardern-Sodje, who plays Simba in the theatre production, said he is determined to continue performing after suffering the racist and homophobic abuse.
He said: "A few nights ago, members of our company were subjected to racial and homophobic abuse, both verbally and with the threat of violence, while on the way home after the show in Dublin.
"It was a huge blow that hit us hard as a company, opening old wounds for many and reminding us that while our talent and efforts to entertain are often welcomed by the world, that doesn't mean our humanity is recognised.
"However, this job, this show and our company is an overwhelmingly glorious celebration of black excellence and diversity in all its forms.
"Even if a vocal minority refuse to recognise our light, we can't help but shine anyway.
"We've worked too hard and come too far to do anything else."
Rushand Chambers, who plays Mufasa, said he was deeply upset by the abuse.
He said: "It's just upsetting. All the work, time and energy we've given to then be subjected to behaviour like this.
"Dublin has been a good experience as well. The theatre and audience are beautiful.
"But we can't ignore the ugly side too. The country needs healing."
Actor Alan McHale, who plays meerkat Timon in the production, said the cast and crew who were subjected to the abuse have carried themselves with such dignity since.
He said: "The most disappointing thing I have ever witnessed but my Lion King family are heroes and have showcased strength that I will forever be changed by."
Owain Rhys Davies, who plays hyena Ed, bird Zazu and meerkat Timon in the stage show, added: "Racism, homophobia and bigotry are alive and well.
"We will not stand for a single bit of it. Learning starts when you open your eyes and acknowledge that all forms of discriminate exist.
"Ignoring or brushing it under the carpet helps no-one."
Brian Gilligan, who plays lion Scar and warthog Pumba, said the Lion King performers are too talented to let the abuse hold them back.
He said: "Let this continue to be talked about. Still can't get over the level of talent in this company.
"Bord Gais Energy Theatre - thanks for standing with those affected."
Ensemble member Melvin LeBlanc said: "This needs to stop."
And assistant stage manager Amy Louise Clement said the cast and crew who endured the abuse have shown immense bravery and courage.
She said: "I cannot and will never understand why people are so full of hate.
"Amazed by the resilience and bravery shown by my friends in such a difficult time.
"I have never been witness to a racial attack of this magnitude before.
"I had not seen pain, anger and upset like it.
"My friends at the Lion King are the most beautiful, talented group of people I will ever come across in my life.
"I have never witnessed such a show of resilience and courage to get back on that stage and do a double show after being victims of such an abhorrent racial attack.
"I am so sick of the ignorance and hate in this world. I wish I could do more to change that."
The Bord Gais Energy Theatre said it is supporting the cast and crew and reported the matter to gardai.
In a statement, it said: "We are saddened to share that several of the performers and crew of The Lion King, currently performing at Bord Gais Energy Theatre in Dublin, were recently subjected to racial abuse on their way home from the theatre.
"It is shocking that something so vile and appalling happened to our colleagues who have brought such joy to thousands of theatregoers since the show opened on 31 December.
"We fully stand with the performers and crew and have put plans in place to support those affected by this incident.
"We also urge that those responsible be held accountable and have reported this incident to An Garda Siochana."
Gardai are continuing to investigate the incident.
A spokesperson said: "No arrests have been made to date. Enquires are ongoing.
"Anyone with information is asked to contact Pearse Street Garda Station 01 6669000 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111."
