Jungle Book at Aviva Studios

Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor

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Jungle Book

Aviva Studios, Manchester
27-31 March 2024

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

A scene from the stage adaptation of Jungle Book featuring 5 performers in costume
Image courtesy of Lucie Jansch.
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We’ve got the perfect theatrical treat for everyone this Easter. So move away from the chocolate eggs and head to the fabulous Aviva Studios, home of Factory International, to catch the UK premiere of Robert Wilson’s Jungle Book. Brought to the stage by visionary director Robert Wilson, this spellbinding production is like no version of the Jungle Book we’ve seen before.

Recommended for school-aged children and adults alike, Jungle Book tells the well-known story of the mancub Mowgli’s journey among his animal friends in the jungle. Alongside Mowgli, Kipling’s heroic, abandoned jungle child, you’ll find all of your favourite Jungle Book characters; Baloo the bear, Bagheera the panther, Shere Khan the tiger and pals spring to life in this wild and wonderful new production.

Expect stunning set designs and sensational costumes by Jacques Reynaud, and original live music from the surrealist folk duo CocoRosie. Jungle Book brings a vibrant and unforgettable blend of theatre and dance set to a fusion soundtrack of hip-hop, electronica, pop and blues.

Jungle Book at Aviva Studios
By Robert Wilson and CocoRosie, based on The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling (1894). Costumes by Jacques Reynaud. Image courtesy of Lucie Jansch.

American playwright, director and visual artist Robert Wilson is revered across the world for his distinctive avant-garde style and his ability to create unmissable theatrical experiences. His works for the stage are usually a fascinating fusion of art forms, including dance, music, movement, lighting, sculpture and text. Always striking and emotionally charged, his productions have earned international acclaim from both audiences and critics alike.

Jungle Book at Aviva Studios
By Robert Wilson and CocoRosie, based on The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling (1894). Costumes by Jacques Reynaud. Image courtesy of Lucie Jansch.

Aesthetically arresting with a dreamy soundscape, Wilson’s lush adaptation also explores important themes like tolerance, friendship and humanity – pitching them in an entertaining and highly visual way for theatre-goers of all ages.

Co-produced by Factory International, this production has already delighted audiences in Florence and Antwerp following its debut at the Théâtre de la Ville in Paris. Now, this captivating stage production swings into Aviva Studios for its very first shows entirely in English. A must-see.

Running at 75 minutes long and recommended for everyone aged 6+, Wilson’s Jungle Book is all about celebrating childhood and the spirit of the wild. A super-sweet alternative treat for all ages this Easter.

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