The Whispering Jungle – Customs House, South Shields

Music and Lyrics: Frew

Director and Lyrics: Belle Streeton

Devised by the company

For many years your reviewer has been an advocate for the use of the Arts, and Drama in particular, to develop the learning of people with multi learning disabilities. Along with one’s love of Children’s Theatre this felt like an appropriate production to review. The production did not disappoint but it was sad to see that the audience number was so small.

This was an immersive theatre production of The Whispering Jungle by Concrete Youth. A charity dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with multi learning disabilities. They have reached over 4.500 audience members across 5 continents since launching in 2019.

The small audience are seated on stage creating a very intermit atmosphere. The small cast of three introduce themselves to each audience member individually with a lively song. There was a lovely interaction with the child, parent and myself, being the only audience members.

Each character and the jungle environment is then described. The story begins with a whispered off stage story telling. Then each character in puppet form appear. The Rainbow Bird appears and the audience are given the opportunity to feel and stroke it. The Turtle puppet, with it’s shell forming a musical instrument, emits delightful sounds when touched. The Monkey appears next and again the audience are encouraged to stroke the puppet. At this point a magical moment occurs when colourful bubbles appear from nowhere. The interplay between the characters continue showing friendship and caring as they help each other.

Then the mood changes with a change in dramatic music and a slick set change to reveal men in bright, yellow hard hats who begin the destruction of the jungle and therefore the homes of the animals. The effects being clearly shown as the jungle swiftly disappears. Burnt flowers are offered to the audience with the burning smell clearly sensed.

The final action shows the regrowth of the jungle as the scene is quickly re set. The cast come together to sing ‘Home is where your friends are’ . Thus ending this delightful production.

Strong team work is shown throughout with excellent harmonies by a musically talented small cast. It was a privilege be part of this intimate production, which clearly deserves a bigger audience. Can I the wardrobe department be forgiven for lack of attention to very creased costumes? Your reviewer thinks so as it didn’t detract from what was a delightful production. Concrete Youth achieved what it had set out to do and I am sure the rest of the tour will be just as magical.

Reviewed on 23rd October 2023.