The Jungle Book at Theatre by the Lake

We can always rely on Keswick’s Theatre by the Lake to bring something a little different in the way of family shows at Christmastime. This year, the team present Olivier-award winning writer Jessica Swale’s acclaimed stage adaptation of The Jungle Book, suitable for children aged 6+ and their families.

Based on Rudyard Kipling’s celebrated and much-loved collection of stories, this adventurous production of The Jungle Book features catchy new songs and vibrant puppetry as well as all of your favourite characters. Entertaining and charming, this high-flying show has all the trappings of the perfect family outing this Christmas.

The story centres around a man cub named Mowgli who was brought up by a pack of wolves in the Indian jungle. Spending most of his days running wild and hunting with his wolf friends, Mowgli finds himself in grave danger when a band of dishonest monkeys, who secretly work for Shere Khan, deliver him to the evil tiger’s lair.

Facing the ultimate test of bravery – and aided by his loyal friends, Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther – Mowgli embarks on a thrilling adventure to escape Shere Khan’s clutches and learn the true laws of the jungle.

Featuring new toe-tapping music by acclaimed singer-songwriter Joe Stilgoe and directed by Kash Arshad, a talented cast of nine will whisk audiences on an exciting journey through the Indian Jungle. Jordan Pearson will play Baloo, returning to Theatre by the Lake after his starring role as Francis Henshall in the 2022 production of One Man, Two Guvnors. Pearson will be joined by Hannah Azuonye as Bagheera (Brief Encounter, Royal Exchange) and Maya Dhokia will make her professional debut as Mowgli. The cast is completed by Umar Butt, Elizabeth Green, Darren Kuppan and Evie Whybrow, while Imogen Greenwood and Conor Neaves join the cast as Swings.

Tackling universal themes of family, friendship and belonging, don’t miss The Jungle Book when it swings into Theatre by the Lake this Christmas.