Photo Flash: CRT Kids Presents THE JUNGLE BOOK

Cortland Repertory Theatre, celebrating their 39th annual season of live theatre summer productions, invites children of all ages to attend the enchanting production of "The Jungle Book" based on the stories of Rudyard Kipling and adapted by Tim Kelly. Four performances are planned: July 29, 31, August 6 and 7, all at 10:00 AM. Tickets are $6.00 per person. Shows will be on the CRT mainstage at the national historic Pavilion in Dwyer Memorial Park on the shores of Little York Lake.

Directed by Kim L. Hubbard with assistance from Meredith Van Scoy, "The Jungle Book" tells the story of Mowgli, a jungle boy raised by wolves. He lives in the bush with his good friends Baloo the bear, Bagheera the panther and Kaa the python snake. His mortal enemy is Shere Khan, a man-eating tiger. Shere Khan wants to rule the jungle, and it's up to Mowgli to defeat him. This adaptation of this classic story includes audience participation, where children will portray silly monkeys, helpful elephants, wolves, bees and even a tropical storm! The play contains a strong theme of the importance of friendship, and also includes a message about ecology. The show is approximately 45 minutes and is appropriate for children 5 to 105!

The six person cast is made up of CRT's multi-talented acting intern company: Annie Duckett, Kaitlyn Frotton, Sean Patrick Gibbons, Crystal Gramkee, Aaron Fried, and Brendon North. CRT tech intern, Kate Wilson, serves as Stage Manager. Scenic Design is by Jason Lajka, with a colorful, traditional sari costume design by Wendi Zea.

"This is our tenth children's show production, in as many years." says Producing Artistic Director Kerby Thompson. "I think this is one of our best productions - certainly one of the most creative, colorful and fun to watch. The setting and sari costumes come from the fact that the original Jungle Book stories take place in India. Some of our actors dress on stage, and "become" the characters in front the audience, complete with face make-up. It's a very exciting and theatrical show, and a new way for children to see this familiar story."

CRT suggests families make a day of it. Bring a picnic lunch for after the show, then enjoy the kiddie pool or park playground. For tickets or more additional information, call the CRT box office at 607-756-2627 or 800-427-6160. Tickets are also available for purchase on-line at www.cortlandrep.org. There is an additional charge for on-line purchases. Seating is general admission on a first-come, first-served basis. The theatre is handicapped accessible and air conditioned. Parking is free.

Brendon North and Kaitlyn Frotton

Crystal Gramkee, Sean Patrick Gibbons, Kaitlyn Frotton, and Brendon North