The Courtyard Youth Theatre’s latest production, The Jungle Book

We were delighted to see The Jungle Book, the latest show produced by the Courtyard Youth Theatre.  We all know and love the story of Mowgli and his friends (and foes) of the jungle. With well-loved stories, there is always a risk that an audience may expect more than a stage show can produce.  This certainly was not the case this evening, it was almost like watching a fresh story unfold. I looked around to see if it was just me having so much fun, and it was pretty apparent that everyone else in the audience loved it too. The show was pure fun, jam-packed full of energy and humour, incredibly playful, and highly entertaining.  All the members of the Youth Theatre brought the story to life perfectly. We were spellbound throughout the entire performance, one that had us so glued, we didn’t realise where the time went!

With cast members ranging from reception age up to age 14, knowing that every member of the Youth Theatre had the opportunity to be up on the stage with a part to play was inspiring.  The Courtyard Youth Theatre has many members of all ages and abilities, so they were split into 2 casts, orange and green, who performed on different nights.  Everyone got their chance to be an integral and necessary part of this amazing production.  Every single one of them did a fantastic job.  Five stars!!!

And talking of stars – several stars of the show were absolute naturals; the stage is where they truly shine, and they were obviously in their element.  They exuded confidence, with perfect body movements, timing and expression, reciting every line as if it were natural conversation befitting of the character they played. There was a buzz in the audience at the recognition of seeing such incredible young talent performing in front of our eyes.  I heard a few breathless ‘wow’s and saw several adult audience members exchanging glances, eyebrows raised, nodding their unspoken agreement that this child has the X factor.  Not every child is destined to be a star of the stage, and not every child would even want to be, but there was equal audience enthusiasm for all the children who weren’t quite so confident or at ease,  and a sense of pride in seeing these children push themselves out of their comfort zone and, in doing so, achieving something pretty awesome.  The Courtyard Youth Theatre fully includes every one of its members, and this production of The Jungle Book was a testament to that.  The children sang and danced, performed stage fights, executed their steps and choreography perfectly, and above all else, thoroughly enjoyed themselves.  If any Youth Theatre members felt nervous or had doubts about their abilities at the start of the performance, those were completely dispelled early on as the audience wholeheartedly applauded each scene of this wonderful show.

A great show takes months of hard work and dedication, and all involved with the Courtyard Youth Theatre must have been incredibly busy in the run-up to the live performances.  Director Rebecca Wood mentions them all in the show program, and I think they deserve a mention here too.  The show was directed by Rebecca Wood, with support from Assistant Directors Jamie Hutton and Rees Matthews.

The original music was written and produced by Alex Fraser, with choreography from Lisa Fraser.  The Youth Theatre members worked with them both to help shape both, with their own ideas.

Carl Davis designed the brilliant set, drawing inspiration from a jungle gym, and creating the perfect setting for the action.

Lydia Fitzwilliams (stage combat specialist) worked with the cast to craft their fight scenes, while Didge Ovel worked with the cast on parkour techniques.

The show would not have been possible without the Youth Theatre assistants, Technical team, Marketing and Educational teams, and the dedicated chaperones. While they may remain unseen, we know it takes a huge team of you to make it even possible.

The biggest shout-out of all has to go to the amazing Youth Theatre members and their amazing families who have supported each of them through rehearsals and beyond.  The show was a huge hit – we absolutely loved it and can hardly wait for the next one!

The Courtyard Youth Theatre isn’t just for the child who wants to be a star of the stage.  It’s not just for those who can sing or dance.  It’s huge fun, offers inclusion,  encourages teamwork, and is the perfect catalyst for personal development.  It nurtures confidence and self-expression,  supporting each child to safely challenge their own limits, and to expand their comfort zones. And of course, did we mention, it’s great fun?! If you are considering any club or class for your child, I would highly recommend this one.  You can find out more here.