Susie McKenna directs Jungle Rumble, a new family musical featuring an inspirational message about working together to protect the Earth, which will run this half term from 14 to 20 February 2022 at The Fortune Theatre in London’s Covent Garden.
Featuring a fabulous line-up of West End performers, uplifting songs and thrilling choreography, Jungle Rumble tells the story of ancient elephant Eeli, shy zebra Zella and cheeky monkey Boo. They journey deep into the heart of the jungle on a fearless expedition to rescue Snow, the last white lion, from the evil Lord Braggard.
Jungle Rumble offers a perfect half-term day out for the whole family. It runs from 14 to 20 February at The Fortune Theatre, Russell St, London (Covent Garden) at various times during the day (running time 45 minutes).
You’re directing Jungle Rumble in the West End, what can you tell us about it?
It’s a wonderful show for all the family with an exciting diverse cast of great musical theatre actors. The music is beautiful, often using African rhythms and also other different musical styles and it’s really funky!
It carries so many amazing and important messages for young children – working together, bravery, caring for friends, stopping big game hunting and saving the planet. Sadly, all too lacking in many adults these days.
How did you get involved with Perform and end up directing their debut West End show?
I’ve known Will and Lucy for many years and admired their work with Perform – and I have even played characters for their show recordings playing a Bear and a Dolphin.
What do you enjoy about directing family friendly productions, and how will this differ from some of your previous work?
I’ve always loved working on shows for all the family – there’s something about telling a story that people of all ages can enjoy watching together and it’s certainly not easy to get right – I’m always learning ! It’s so important to get young people into the theatre as early as possible – it is such a transformative experience.
Jungle Rumble isn’t a pantomime but it does interact with its audience and break the fourth wall. However, as it’s mostly aimed at a younger age group it needs a light touch and the story needs to be very clear.
Tell us a little about the cast, and what you’re enjoying about working with them?
I’ve known many of the cast as they’ve worked with me on a few pantomimes at Hackney Empire. Darren Hart playing Cheetah, Sharon Ballard playing Eeli and Michael Lin playing Boo, and Carole Stennet who worked with me on KING, are all artists I admire greatly for their talent, warmth and energy.
Ben Stock, I’ve wanted to work with for a while now, he’s a glorious character actor and musician and I thought of him immediately when I read the show. Billy and Rachael, our wonderful ensemble and understudies definitely have the hardest job like so many super covers do! Joy Tan playing Zella is a recent graduate and I am proud that she is making her Debut with Jungle Rumble.
Do you have a favourite moment of the show yet?
I really love the music but my favourite song is This is Our Earth. It has such an amazing message and the full company performs it.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Jungle Rumble?
It truly is a joyous show that all the generations can enjoy with their little ones.
