The Jungle Book
Olivier Theatre, National, London
Theatrical magic for the whole family
13th November 2026 - 6th February 2027
Suitable for 6-100 years
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.
13th November 2026 - 6th February 2027
Tickets from £33
Director: Indhu Rubasingham
Puppetry: Finn Caldwell and Nick Barnes
Olivier Theatre
National Theatre, South Bank, London, United Kingdom, SE1 9PX
Directions
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.
What makes Olivier Theatre, National family friendly
Air conditioned
Bar
Disabled toilets
Infrared hearing loop
Toilets
Wheelchair accessible
Address and Contact Info
Olivier Theatre, National
South Bank
London
SE1 9PX
Nearest Station: Waterloo