Events
The Jungle Book
10th April 2010
Provider: Doncaster Little Theatre
Venue: Doncaster Little Theatre
Cost: £8,00 - £6 conc, £3 with Borou
Event Contact:
Box office |
01302 340422 | Publicity@doncasterlittletheatre.co.uk
Website: www.doncasterlittletheatre.co.uk
“THE JUNGLE BOOK” by Rudyard Kipling,
adapted by Stuart Pearson
The Doncaster Little Theatre is bringing to life a vibrant and thrilling rendition of Rudyard Kipling’s original “Jungle Book” stories this April, in what is sure to be a visual treat.
The show, based on an adaptation of Kipling’s short story collection by Stuart Pearson, follows the life and growth of baby Mowgli, a young child stolen from his village by the limping Tiger lord, Shere Khan. As he is saved and raised by wolves, the fearless Mowgli finds the jungle to be a playground filled with adventure- until betrayal leads him to the teeth of Shere Khan. Leaving the Jungle behind, he must adapt to the harsh realities of civilised human life as he is adopted my Messua, a woman whose child was stolen by The Great Tiger. Mowgli finds he is as much an outcast there as in the Jungle. He is left with one path to follow- his own.
The play is a fictional first for director Rob Myles, who joined the Little Theatre last year and has been seen in Treasure Island and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, “When I was approached with the script, I knew it had the potential to be a fantastic piece of family theatre.” With his experience in documentary production and a background in acting and fight choreography, Rob was eager to put his vision to the stage, “The messages in The Jungle Book are as relevant today as when they were written- while the story has laughs and action and drama, its themes can really speak to young people and get them thinking.”
The cast includes Nuwan Dahayanake as Mowgli, in his first role with a full adult cast. “Nuwan is a brilliant Mowgli,” Rob enthused, “he has such great energy- like the character, he’s fearless. It’s a huge part, and it requires a lot from him physically and emotionally, but he shines through it all and asks for more.” Also returning to the stage is heavyweight professional wrestler Lee “The Donny Bull” Platt in the role of Baloo, who also helped choreograph the fight scenes. Along with them are a number of actors, some of whom are treading the boards for the first time. “It’s important to Doncaster Little Theatre that we are open to our community- that we give everyone the chance to take part. We offered open auditions, and I’ve been amazed by the talent we’ve discovered.”
The songs feature lyrics written exclusively by Rudyard Kipling in the original stories. Pearson, the script writer, says they “enhance the meaning and texture” of the story.
The show has music, songs, dances, action, laughs and thrills, and aims to embody everything families can enjoy in theatre.
“This is the real Jungle Book” said Rob of his production, “It’s great to have the chance to bring it to life.”
The Jungle Book opens at the Doncaster Little Theatre on April 10th, and runs from the 13th-17th at 7.00pm, with matinee performances at 2.30pm on the 10th and 17th.
Notes for Editors :
Rob Myles is a freelance videographer and actor – www.robmyles.co.uk
All Doncaster Little Theatre Productions are cast using open auditions – people must join to audition, and new members are frequently cast in productions straightaway. Details of forthcoming auditions are published on our website.
In a first for Doncaster Little Theatre, Rob Myles has produced a visual trailer, which can be viewed on our website.
www.doncasterlittletheatre.co.uk
Rob is available for interview by arrangement on 07989387048
Email Enquiries: publicity@doncasterlittletheatre.co.uk
Booking Office: 01302 340422 open: Monday – Saturday 4.00pm - 8.00pm
Tickets £8 adults, £6 concessions
www.doncasterlittletheatre.co.uk
2 for 1 on Mondays, and just £3 for Borough Treasure pass holders on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Discounts for family groups and bookings of 10 or more
