The National Theatre has announced the initial cast and creative team for its new adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. Directed by artistic director Indhu Rubasingham, the production will open in the Olivier theatre in November 2026.

The Jungle Book, adapted by Anupama Chandrasekhar, is set to run at the National Theatre from 13 November 2026 to 6 February 2027, with a press night on 24 November. The story unfolds in the mangroves of the Sundarbans, where Mowgli grows up among the jungle animals and confronts threats to his family and home.

Oscar-winning actor Hiran Abeysekera will take on the role of Mowgli. He will be joined by a diverse ensemble cast including Sarah Amankwah, Darcy Braimoh, Sebastian Charles, Laura Cubitt, Fred Davis, Ayesha Dharker, Ali Goldsmith, Romina Hytten, Tony Jayawardena, Avye Leventis, Kel Matsena, Sifiso Mazibuko, and Jordan Metcalfe. Further casting is yet to be announced.

The production will feature puppetry by Lume’s Nick Barnes and Finn Caldwell, with design by Rajha Shakiry and movement direction by Caldwell. The creative team also includes Fernando Velázquez composing the music, Oliver Fenwick on lighting, and Benjamin Grant handling sound.

Casting is led by Bryony Jarvis-Taylor and Martin Poile, with voice direction from Cathleen McCarron. John Young serves as associate director, Scarlet Wilderink as associate puppetry director, Caroline Bowman as associate puppet designer, and Ruth Hall as associate set designer.

Chandrasekhar’s adaptation is part of the National Theatre Studio’s programme supported by the Chanel Culture Fund, which promotes international artist residencies. The production is recommended for audiences aged seven and above.

This new interpretation of Kipling’s classic arrives amid ongoing interest in re-examining canonical stories through diverse contemporary voices on major UK stages. The use of puppetry and the Sundarbans setting promise a visually distinctive exploration of the familiar tale.