The Jungle Book alive on stage
Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book makes an ideal introduction to theatre for young people.
The Jungle Book,
Birmingham Stage Company, Alexandra Theatre
Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book makes an ideal introduction to theatre for young people.
Adapted for the stage by Stuart Paterson this is a direct and simple telling of these animal stories. Samuel Hargreaves, in his professional debut as Mowgli, makes a very personable character as the boy raised by wolves.
Peter Sowerbutts has a powerful presence as tiger Shere Khan and Baloo the bear is amiably portrayed by Rob Hughes.
Iwan Tudor is a strong Akela and Zephryn Taitte makes the most of her part as Bagheera.
Neal Foster's production for Birmingham Stage Company is mainly played for laughs.
Sets and lighting are effective.
Runs until Saturday.