by Elizabeth Connolly
Hometown Weekly Reporter
The curtain recently rose for another wonderful production from Walpole Children’s Theatre (WCT). This time around it was the timeless tale Jungle Book. This popular classic, adapted from Rudyard Kipling’s beloved stories, written by Vera Morris, and directed by Justin Connolly, transports the audience deep into the forests of India. This is where they meet an unusual cast of characters brought to life by a cast of 27 that range in age from 10-17 years old.
“I thought it was great,” said one mom that was leaving the performance with her two children. “We try to attend every show they (WCT) do. I think it’s so good for kids to be exposed to live theater, it teaches the value of hard work and helps them learn patience.”
At 75 minutes, plus one 15 minute intermission, the length of the show is perfect for any age. “They were good,” remarked a senior citizen that attended with her grandchildren. “You could see how hard they worked. And the sets were really well done. Most importantly, the kids liked it!”
Jungle Book tells the tale of Mowgli, a young boy that is raised by a wolf pack after an incident leaves him all alone in the jungle. Tutored by his friends Kaa the python, Bagheera the panther, and Baloo the bear, he learns self-sufficiency, wisdom, and the laws of the jungle. At the same time, he must always beware the dangers of the forest, which include goofy, overzealous monkeys and the man-eating tiger Shere Khan.
With four packed performances already in the books, it’s safe to say that audiences are going bananas for Jungle Book. You can enjoy your own hare-raising experience at one of three remaining shows: Friday, March 1st at 7 p.m., and Saturday March 2nd at 2:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m. All shows take place at Footlighter’s Theater on Scout Road in East Walpole. This production is sponsored in part by a grant from the Walpole Cultural Council. Tickets can be purchased online at wct.booktix.com or by calling the box office at 508-921-0542.
