“Jungle Book a roaring success at Theatre By The Lake”
IN sub zero Keswick – Theatre by the Lake has raised the curtain on a sweltering jungle adventure that oozes Christmas. This daring festive bonanza delivers in abundance with a nod to Broadway, a wink to comedy, Jessica Swale’s production of Jungle Book is an audacious homage to Rudyard Kipling classic children’s story. The Nobel prize-winning author wrote the worldwide classic in 1894 loosely based on a true story of a boy raised by animals.
The retelling here is a faithful narrative but which charts its own path away from the well trodden almost deforested versions on TV, Movie and Theatre. There are no kitsch furry costumes here or mawkish face painting. This is Rudyard Kipling not Chester Zoo. If you want flawless dance routines and booming harmonisations go and see Disney on Ice.
This is a versatile and thoughtful version directed by Kash Arshad rendered all the more charming by its sincerity.
Jungle Book springs to life very quickly, it is daring, fun has swagger and verve. A musical comedy which throws caution to the wolves. The camaraderie and sheer athleticism of the cast is infectious to watch, the deft use of puppetry enthralling, costumes are thought provoking and the stage is spectacular. The garish yet alluring set which could double up as a Go Ape play centre is as mesmerising as Kaa the sly scheming snake.
There are some really clever touches.
The tropical Indian jungle reveals a subtle and deferential nod to Keswick, with a mountain boot wearing cast, ropes and mist. It is cheerful, generous, commanding and achingly funny in parts as it delves into the binding mysteries of jungle protagonists Mowgli, Baloo, Baghera, Shere Khan et al. Transitioning and interaction of the actors in their multiple roles works exceptionally well. The Pantomime buffoonery of Baloo, the avant-garde showcasing of Boa Constrictor Kaa, the rambunctious Funky [monkey] gang prancing about. The interplay of Indian, African and distinctly Northern English accents among the animal tribes makes it a joyous fusion. Experienced and emerging actors mingle well. Maya Dhokia (Mowgli) who gets a professional debut is the perfect foil to Darren Kuppan’s fiendishly fierce Shere Khan.
This coming of age fable is beautifully reimagined by Theatre by The Lake celebrating its 25th anniversary year with a fittingly thunderous and authentic finale.
True to the evolutionary spirit of TBTL this is another bold production which delivers fabulous family entertainment but crucially gives new talent a voice. The Jungle Book plays at Theatre by the Lake until Sunday 12 January 2025. Read the full review HERE.
