KIDS theatre at its best is a very grown-up business and the collaboration which has created some of the most seriously good children’s theatre for touring in recent years, (Royal & Derngate Northampton, Children’s Touring Partnership and Fiery Angel as Co-Producers) has turned its magic on The Jungle Book.

We can’t but help comparing it to the iconic Disney Films – I have to confess I have never read the book, but it is Kipling’s work which is the primary inspiration for the show. So put away those half-coconuts – King Louis is not in this jungle.

We went wild for Mowgli. From the puppets representing younger Mowgli to a superb performance by Keziah Joseph as older Mowgli, his story is told with spirit, bravery, wonderful physicality and a deep integrity, much credit to Joseph.

The set is a great abstract idea of a jungle – many ladders hanging, for vines and tree tops and a revolve. It looks fantastic in the light, but the loose sense of place can have an effect on the narrative which is episodic. We seem always to be in exactly the same place.

Costume-wise, animals are suggested subtly and its more about character. So Shere Khan is more Cockney Elvis-wannabe than tiger, Baloo a welsh fuzzy bumpkin. I didn’t like Kaa’s costume much – more caterpillar than sinuous python and she’s so far from bad we’re not even in panto-baddie territory here – more panto fairy.

I would have liked some more thrilling threat in the jungle too, to balance out some of the fun and because this is theatre for older children, not under-sixes. What has been created is smart, magical and ingenious - a sound embodiment of what theatre for all ages can be.

  • Till Saturday 31st March with evening shows at 7.00pm Matinees Wednesday 2pm, Saturday 2.30pm
  • For tickets go to http://www.theatreroyal.co.uk or ring 08448 11 21 21

Sarah Smith