The laws of the jungle come to life in this dazzling adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s classic collection of stories as State Street Ballet performs “The Jungle Book” on April 29.

Jungle boy Mowgli and a village girl share a moment in this tale from Rudyard Kipling, shown here during a 2019 performance at The Granada Theatre. On April 29, State Street Ballet will present “The Jungle Book” at Lobero. (Photo by David Bazemore)

Choreographed by State Street Ballet Artistic Director Rodney Gustafson, with an original score by Czech composer and conductor Milan Svoboda, the original ballet premiered in 2009 to enthusiastic audiences and was instantly hailed as a “crowd-pleaser,” “a joy to behold,” and “visually stunning.” Following a successful tour throughout the southwestern states, it returns to the Lobero stage for one night only on April 29, before touring Japan in May.

The iconic coming-of-age story follows young Mowgli’s adventures, transporting audiences to a mystical land of wolves, snakes, monkeys and panthers. Colorful, upbeat and wildly entertaining, the recently updated production features additional choreography by Kassandra Taylor Newberry, Marina Fliagina, Megan Philipp and William Soleau.

Composer Milan Svoboda, best known for his jazz compositions and scenic music for theatre and film, wrote the score, which was recorded in Prague by the Symphonic Orchestra of the National Theatre and the Milan Svoboda Jazz Orchestra, featuring vocalist Yvetta Blanarovicova. Jean-Francois Revon created the scenic design, and the sets were painted by Serena Shanary and Ismael Angaon. The stunning, elaborate animal costumes were designed by A. Christina Giannini with additional variations by Nicole Thompson.  

Tickets are available through the Lobero Theatre box office and online at lobero.org. Prices range from $38 to $58, with a discounted price of $22 for children in select price zones. A student discount is also available for purchase in person with ID.

The iconic Monkeys, in a segment choreographed by Kasandra Taylor Newberry, steal the show, accompanied by Milan Svoboda’s jazzy score. during a 2019 performance at The Granada Theatre. (Photo by David Bazemore)

ABOUT THE COMPANY

State Street Ballet, founded in 1994, is an internationally acclaimed dance company based in Santa Barbara, under the artistic direction of Rodney Gustafson and William Soleau. A pioneering collaborative that supports international ensemble members, the company consistently strives for new and innovative artistic opportunities to serve a broad audience. Each season is dedicated to bringing the highest standards of artistry and originality to tried-and-true classics, and creating innovative works that reflect the contemporary nature of the ensemble. Public performances, educational outreach, community partnerships, and training programs are fundamental to their mission, at home and on tour. Visit statestreetballet.com for more information.