SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE, LONDON

Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Akram Khan presents new dance-theatre production Jungle Book reimagined at Sadler’s Wells on Tuesday 4 – Saturday 15 April. Based on Rudyard Kipling’s family classic, Khan and his team reinvent the journey of Mowgli through the eyes of a climate refugee, the show premiered at Leicester's Curve Theatre in April 2022.

Featuring an original score by Jocelyn Pook, ten international dancers and state-of-the-art animation and visuals by YeastCulture, Jungle Book reimagined tells a story about our intrinsic need to belong and bond with others, placing respect for our natural world at its heart. The show is set in a deserted city which has been reclaimed by nature.

“The Jungle Book’s story has always been close to me. Not only because I had played the role of Mowgli in an Indian dance production at age 10, but more because of the deep lessons it held that I have since carried with me throughout my life. I felt compelled to share its story but the lens of my Jungle Book is one where the dancers' bodies are an archive for nature and the animals threatened by the irresponsible behaviour of humans. I am looking forward to sharing the spirit of this production as a step to remind, to relearn and to reimagine a new world together.”

Akram Khan

Sustainability has been a key focus for the creative team. The world on stage is brought to life through projection by Adam Smith and Nick Hillel, allowing the company to tour more sustainably with minimal sets. YeastCulture uses innovative ways to connect the stage, video and the screen into one integrated audience experience.

The set has also been designed with sustainability in mind, made of cardboard boxes, of which some are provided by each tour venue. Visual stage design is by Miriam Buether. The script is by writer and actor Tariq Jordan and dramaturgy is by Sharon Clark. Sound design by Gareth Fry, lighting is by Michael Hulls.

In over 20 years, Akram Khan Company has become one of the foremost innovative dance companies in the world. The programmes range from kathak and modern solos to artist-toartist collaborations and ensemble productions.

ABOUT SADLER’S WELLS

Sadler's Wells is a world-leading dance organisation. Their acclaimed year-round programme spans dance of every kind, from contemporary to flamenco, Bollywood to ballet, salsa to street dance and tango to tap. They commission, produce and present more dance than any other organisation in the world.

LISTINGS INFORMATION

Tuesday 4 - Saturday 15 April 2023