Las Vegas is packed with interesting people – from performers to chefs to dancers to writers and more – all calling this town “home.” Today continues a new series where OneTravel.com writer Diana Edelman takes you behind-the-scenes, and gives a glimpse of life in Las Vegas for these larger than life personalities. Last week, we introduced you to the wild cast of "Absinthe." This week we speak with Derrick Williams, star of "The Lion King."

Derrick Williams is no stranger to the stage. He has graced stages on Broadway (“Aida” and “Swing”); has appeared on television programs (“Numbers,” “Ghost Whisperer” to name a few); and has garnered throngs of fans for his performance as Fiyero in “Wicked” at Los Angeles’ Pantages Theater.

In Las Vegas, Williams taps into his catlike side as Simba’s father, Mufasa, in Mandalay Bay’s production of “The Lion King.” Based on Disney’s feature-length animated film of the same name, “The Lion King” tells the story of a young cub, Simba, who learns at a young age the importance of leadership from his dad, Mufasa. When Mufasa is killed, Simba leaves his village. Years later, after befriending loveable jungle creatures, he hears of strife in his village and returns to take back the throne, and to be reunited with his childhood love.

The show  which is near replica of the other companies productions internationally, features whimsical costumes, an amazing set, spectacular musical numbers, and, of course, a cast brimming with talent.

Originally from Norfolk, Va., Williams, his wife and their young daughters, have resided in Las Vegas for more than a year and have gotten to know the city well. 

For your part, you have to embody a lion. Did you ever visit MGM's Lion Habitat or Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden to see how it's done?

Derrick: No, but that would have been a good idea!

Las Vegas has been referred to as a suburb of Los Angeles. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

Derrick: I disagree. I lived in LA before I moved to Vegas, and to me, it’s completely different. LA has a different vibe all around. It’s a little more laid back here in Vegas, which is nice, and there is almost no traffic, which is great! The weather and the beaches are what you miss about LA.

Your show is at Mandalay Bay. You must spend a lot of time there. What is your favorite thing to do at the resort?

Derrick: I enjoy going to some of the restaurants and relaxing in the spa now and then. Mandalay Bay treats their customers very well, and I always enjoy great service. My favorite place to eat is Lupo, and my favorite dish is the lasagna.

You work to stay physically fit. If you had to design a work out on The Strip, without going to a gym, what would you do?

Derrick: It all depends on what time of year it is. In the summer, all you need is a bottle of water and a nice power walk down the Strip. You should burn plenty of calories.

Have you and your family ever had a staycation here? If so, where did you go/what did you do? If not, where would you want to have a Las Vegas staycation?

Derrick: We have not done a staycation yet.

What do you think is the most kid-friendly spot in Las Vegas?

Derrick: I believe Vegas has become really kid-friendly in most of their casinos on the Strip, but if I had to make a choice, I would probably say Circus Circus. I think the name speaks for itself.

If you and your wife could have a romantic dinner anywhere in town, where would you go?

Derrick: We celebrated our anniversary recently and had a very romantic dinner at Mon Ami Gabi  at Paris. We had a beautiful view of the water show at Bellagio. It was a perfect night!

I love Las Vegas because …

Derrick: [because] of the variety. I can have the nightlife if I want it, or I can get away from it all and enjoy time at my beautiful home.

Want to see Derrick Williams' amazing Vegas performance for yourself? Check out cheap flights to Las Vegas everyday with OneTravel!