Animal puppets unveiled for National Theatre production of The Jungle Book

Animal puppets that will feature in a National Theatre production of The Jungle Book have been unveiled.The play, which will be performed for the first time on Friday at the London venue’s Olivier Theatre has been adapted from Rudyard Kipling’s tale of the same name by Anupama Chandrasekhar.The Jungle Book director Indhu Rubasingham said of the puppets: “Central to Mowgli’s journey is the loyal band of animal friends and family who guide him through this beloved story, alongside the threats that lie hidden within his jungle home.“Bringing these iconic characters to the stage has been immensely joyful, to be working with Nick Barnes and Finn Caldwell, who have created these beautiful and life-size puppets, and with the talented company of actors who bring them to life onstage.“I can’t wait for audiences to experience The Jungle Book in the Olivier, I hope it convinces everyone of the magical power of theatre.’The giant puppets – which include Baloo, Moti, Bagheera, and Shere Khan – feature people at their centre, while Mowgli will be played by Hiran Abeysekera.They were unveiled in a video narrated by Countryfile presenter Matt Baker.A summary of the play from the National Theatre reads: “In the mangroves of the Sundarbans, wolves howl, birds soar and tigers roar. At the heart of this wild and vibrant kingdom, an unlikely child is growing up, Mowgli.The play will run at the National Theatre (Isabel Infantes/PA)PA Archive“Danger stalks the shadows, and threats lie hidden beneath every rock. To protect his family, his friends and the only home he has ever known, this young hero must first discover who he really is and where he truly belongs.”Based on Kipling’s 1894 work, The Jungle Book has also been adapted into two Disney films – with a 1967 animated version and the 2016 live-action movie.The Jungle Book will run in the Olivier Theatre until February 6 and tickets are on sale from Nationaltheatre.org.uk.