The Terrace Playhouse and “Disney’s The Jungle Book Junior” (Heather Burchett)

The Terrace Playhouse in Ansbach brings the big screen to life with “Disney’s The Jungle Book Junior.” Directed by Vicky Hanrahan, with Andrea Korbel (assistant director) and youth director Amelia Burchett, this show has an incredible cast of 46 youth.

This Disney classic tells the tale of Mowgli, played by Dominick (8), who leads us on his journey through the jungle to find the human village.

Along the way, Mowgli encounters Baloo, played by Emily (17) who shows the silly side of this loveable bear. In “Bare Necessities” she makes the audience want to dance along with her carefree and groovy dance moves. The quirky, family feel is enjoyable throughout the entire show.

Cast members of The Terrace Playhouse’s show “Disney’s The Jungle Book Junior” (Heather Burchett)

Ansbach is affectionately called the “best hometown in Europe.” A sentiment reflected in the collaboration between Ansbach Terrace Playhouse and the Child Development Center (CDC) for this performance, giving children a chance to make and share art, dance, music and theater. Seeing young children participate is heartwarming. Witnessing their smiles, hearing muffled giggles backstage and seeing a little wave to parents in the audience confirms the importance of youth theater.

 “That’s the real trouble with the world, too many people grow up”. Walt Disney

Not only are youth featured on stage, but also in the production crew. Elijah (15) volunteered countless hours to create set pieces with the feel of being deep in the jungle. This includes detailed tropical vines, large magenta flowers, a banana tree and an elaborate throne. The whimsical decorations enhance the theme and allow for a large group of children to manipulate the sets.

Sound team Bentley and Ms. Vicky (Heather Burchett)

The tech team also has Bentley (10) who assists with the sound system, learning how to use the system, the computer applications and wiring necessary to bring music to the show. Adult volunteer Jordan Dewey worked with the cast on weekly vocal lessons, using her background in elementary music education to help the young singers perform their best.

As the wolves enter the stage, it is apparent that the costumes are also designed with kids in mind; they appear both comfortable and effective at giving each cast member that ‘into the wild’ effect. Their masks highlight the glow that these nocturnal creatures have, and the faux fur is creatively used. Costume designer Kimberly Stockton deftly brings each character to life with their wardrobe.

Wolves perform in “Disney’s The Jungle Book Junior” (Heather Burchett)

With such a large cast, the youngest performers look to their older cast members for guidance. Elephant Col. Hathii, played by Maddox (12) charismatically leads an ensemble fifteen young elephants, including the smallest, Lydia (6), who melts hearts.

In the end, the importance of family and community is a continual theme in both the performance and production of this collaborative show. Bagheera, played by Lily (11), the caring, affectionate panther says it best, “No matter where you go, you will always have a home here in the jungle,” or, we can imply, in Ansbach. In this final scene, the entire cast joins her on stage for bows. The warm sense of togetherness and pride is palpable.

Costume designer Kimberly Stockton looks on during rehearsals of “Disney’s The Jungle Book Junior” at The Terrace Playhouse. (Heather Burchett)