


A new adaptation by Anupama Chandrasekhar after Rudyard Kipling. Directed by Indhu Rubasingham, puppetry Finn Caldwell and Nick Barnes.
The original tells us the story of Mowgli, a human boy raised by wolves in the Indian jungle. Anu has undertaken a magical, theatrical adaptation of the adored Kipling short stories, filled with puppetry, humour and lively original character.
Set in the Sundarbans in Northern India, this version is imbued with contemporary themes about the changing climate and the interdependency of humans and animals in the natural world. It centres the spiritual roots of the natural world and places at the heart the character of Ma Bonbibi, the Lady of the Forest, the guardian spirit of this mangrove forest, worshipped by both Hindus and Muslims, who protects the creatures of this area.
This production reunites Indhu and Anu on the Olivier stage (The Father and the Assassin) offering a distinctive and resonant new version of this beloved story. Audiences will be transported into the jungle as the Olivier is transformed for this timeless classic tale of family, courage and loyalty, framed through a contemporary lens, exploring the enduring theme of nature and nurture. Theatrical magic for the whole family.
For assisted performances, please book directly through the National Theatre
Ages 7+
13th November, 2026
6th February, 2027
Written By: A new adaptation by Anupama Chandrasekhar after Rudyard Kipling
Director: Indhu Rubasingham
Puppetry: Finn Caldwell and Nick Barnes
Location: Fringe/Off West End
Railway station: Waterloo
Bus numbers: (Waterloo Road) 1, 4, 26, 59, 68, 76, 139, 168, 171, 172, 176, 188, 243, 341, 521, RV1, X68
Night bus numbers: (Waterloo Road) 139, 176, 188, 243, 341, N1, N68, N76, N171, N343
Car park: National Theatre, Upper Ground (1min)
Directions from tube: (10mins) Follow signs for exits to the South Bank. This should lead you to an underground pedestrian passage called ‘Sutton Walk’ that emerges at the South Bank. Turn right and walk along the river Thames until you see the National Theatre.
| Day of week | Matinee | Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | - | - |
| Tuesday | - | 7:00 PM |
| Wednesday | - | 7:00 PM |
| Thursday | - | 7:00 PM |
| Friday | - | 7:00 PM |
| Saturday | 3:00 PM | 7:00 PM |
| Sunday | - | - |
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