The cast of the reimagined musical, 'The Jungle Book'.
Image: Supplied
For parents seeking alternatives to screen time, the highly anticipated return of “The Jungle Book” to the stage offers a perfect solution.
Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale has been vividly reimagined for a modern audience. The production is currently delighting audiences at Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre and is scheduled to run at the AfriForum Theatre in Pretoria later in March.
A scene from the spellbinding stage production, 'The Jungle Book'.
Image: Supplied
Adapted and directed by Daniel Butcher-Geddes, the production features an original score by Wessel Odendaal, paired with an original, urban-inspired set and costume design, and dynamic choreography.
The result is a strikingly modern, gritty, and stylised aesthetic that is also refreshingly original, while still honouring the core narrative.
This 75-minute, family-friendly adventure follows Mowgli’s journey of self-discovery, friendship, and courage. Audiences aged 5 and up will meet beloved characters, including Bagheera, Baloo, and the formidable Shere Khan, and can look forward to an unforgettable theatrical experience.
The talented cast features Noluthando Mathebula as Mowgli, Grant Towers as Baloo, Brett De Groot as Shere Khan, Siyamthanda Makakane as Bagheera, Jordyn Schaefer as Kaa, and John Tsenoli as Akela & King Louis.
Where: Pieter Toerien Theatre, Montecasino.
When: Runs until March 1, 11am.
Where: AfriForum Theatre, Menlopark.
When: March 25 to April 5.
The Tramp
Revisiting the era of silent films, this one-man hybrid piece pays homage to Charlie Chaplin.
Daniel Anderson, who is renowned for this stage work, takes on the persona of one of cinema's greatest comics. He masterfully captures the delicate balance between comedy and tragedy inherent in the role.
The central question this production seeks to explore is who came first: Charlie or The Tramp?
It is written and directed by Amanda Bothma.
Where: Theatre on the Square.
When: Runs until Saturday, February 28, 7pm.
Imithandazo Yethu
Set within a township, this contemporary South African drama explores the interplay of faith, family and power.
Thabo, a dedicated husband and father, chooses devotion to his church above the security of a stable home life. This decision subtly disrupts his marriage and sends tremors through his community.
What seems initially like a sincere expression of faith slowly exposes itself as a rigorous system demanding quiet subservience and great sacrifice, especially from those connected to him.
As faith materialises in the lives and relationships of the people involved, the true price of such deep commitment is revealed. It compels everyone to grapple with the essential questions of what it truly means to love, have faith and persevere.
Where: space.com at Joburg Theatre.
When: Runs until Sunday, 7pm. Times differ on Sunday.