The Birmingham Stage Company transformed the Curve Theatre stage into a tropical Indian Jungle scene for their adaption of Rudyard Kipling’s ‘The Jungle Book’.
It was not just the stage that was transformed. But also the actors themselves, whose beautifully created costumes added so much to the already wonderful production. Set to a jungle beat of thunderous music and dynamic dance routines, this production has a lot of audience interaction which left the younger audiences lapping it up, wanting more.
‘The jungle Book’ was written in 1894, and is Kipling’s most famous tale, set around the fable of the “man-cub” Mowgli, abandoned in the Indian Jungle and raised by wolves.
Neal Foster director of ‘The Jungle Book’ and also the founder of The Birmingham Stage Company has brought the show back to the UK for its fourth UK tour. The show was the first major production to bring the classic story to life, which contains brand new music from BB Cooper and lyrics by Barb Jungr. Stuart Paterson who adapted the book for the stage did a brilliant job staying true to the original story, straying away from the Disney movie, but still creating plenty of laughs for young and old alike.
The show was lively throughout, with all the well known characters making appearances. Samuel Hargreaves as Mowgli torn between the jungle and his place among the humans did a standout performance, with Rob Hughes as the endearing Baloo the bear and Zephryn Taitte as Bagheera/Buldeo.
Peter Sowerbutts is well cast in the role of the predatory tiger Shere Khan, with other strong performances from Craig Painting as Tabaqui/ban and Laura Waggott as the slinky Kaa.
If you’re looking for a fantastic experience for all the family, then don’t miss this rip-roaring musical theatre show which brings Kipling’s timeless story to life. This is a delightful show for children as well as families- an evening of great adventure, songs, dancing and superb puppetry. The show is not just for the kids, but for the adults as well who will find the show just as entertaining, bringing back memories from the book and the Disney film.
The Jungle Book runs until the 16th April, with ticket prices ranging from £10 – £14, with concessions for under 16’s. To purchase tickets and for further information visit the Curve website www.curveonline.co.uk, or alternatively call the box office on 0116 242 3595.
