Manchester Theatre News & Reviews
REVIEW - Become part of the wolfpack this Christmas and see The Jungle Book - the perfect family fun for all ages!
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On Wednesday, we were invited to the Octagon in Bolton to see The Jungle Book. Read what our reviewer, Lizzie Johnston thought about this year's festive production at the venue...
Based on the book by Rudyard Kipling, The Jungle Book is a classic adventure following the lives of Mowgli, a man cub, and his jungle family. After being found by the Wolfpack as a baby, Mowgli has been brought up amongst the animals in the jungle and sees himself as one of them. This classic story, told as a new musical adaptation, is a joyous and wholesome retelling of a well-loved family favourite.
I always enjoy my trips to The Octagon in Bolton, so I knew I’d be in for a treat, and let’s be honest - you can’t go wrong with The Jungle Book. As performances at The Octagon are performed in the round, you’re often in for an immersive experience which gets the audience involved, and this performance was no exception. The stage was simple with a couple of rocks to represent the jungle and the ceiling had been decorated with huge leaves, vines and fairy lights to transform the place.
It was through props, costume and the acting that the jungle came to life. Whether it was using long pieces of light material to make up a river or a massive, shiny train on the snake's costume, the design behind the show was so clever and well thought out. I heard quite a few kids saying the snake was their favourite part when leaving, and I think this must be down to the combination of everything coming together - the performance, costume and music.
A small cast of five took on multiple roles, including the iconic Jungle Book characters we all know and love. Together, their performances were larger than life to fill the space and make the jungle seem like a bustling, exciting place to be.
Kiara Nicole Pillai (Beauty and the Beast, Romeo and Juliet, Anya and the Potter) brought all the curiosity and excitement of a child, as Mowgli she pushed the boundaries set by his jungle family. Her childlike expressions let us see the jungle through Mowgli’s eyes, seeing him take on the changes that animals have to face, but not necessarily ones humans are made for. Along with Charlie Ryan (Little Shop of Horrors, Port Wine, The Three Musketeers) as the beloved Baloo and Ashley D Gayle (Death of England: Delroy, Bear Snores On, Exhibitionists) as Bagheera the panther, the trio tackle life in the jungle and the villains that are hidden away.
Led by Rachel Marwood (Greatest Days, The Possibility of Colours, Mamma Mia!) as Shere Khan, the dangers of the jungle test Mowgli’s jungle skills and whether he can defend himself like his fellow wolfpack cubs. Marwood’s performance is similar to that of a pantomime villain, it’s bold, exaggerated and fun, portraying Shere Khan’s presence and intimidation fantastically. It’s a great dynamic against the childlike innocence of Mowgli.
This show is perfect for children, whether it’s their first theatre experience or not. The bright costumes, catchy tunes and eagerness for fun will put a smile on any kid’s face - and adult’s for that matter. The Jungle Book is running at the Octagon over the festive period and it’s a fantastic alternative to a traditional pantomime. Switch up the “he’s behind you” calls with an animalistic howl and take to the tropical environment to become part of the wolfpack this Christmas. It’s perfect family fun that any age will enjoy!
WE SCORE THE JUNGLE BOOK...
The Jungle Book is on at the Octagon, Bolton until Saturday 4th January 2025
