It’s third-time lucky for the New Theatre Royal in Lincoln as they finally present their Easter Pantomime, The Jungle Book, from Friday, April 8th to Saturday, April 16th.

The Jungle Book was ready to take audiences on a theatrical adventure at the Clasketgate venue in April 2020 but just a few weeks before opening night the UK went into lockdown and it was still unable to go ahead in 2021.  But now audiences can finally look forward to welcoming the production’s familiar faces back to the stage.

CBBC’s Chris Johnson and regular New Theatre Royal panto star, will star as the Monkey King and Kaa.  “The jungle is jumping… finally!” he says.  “We’ve crafted a tale of family, community and sticking up for what is right, featuring characters you know and love. I can’t wait to share our show with Lincoln’s gorgeous audiences (and maybe wolf down a few Easter eggs at the same time).”

Chris will be joined by Michelle Morris who will get her wicked claws out as Shere Khan, Chris Hayes as Baloo Bear and Georgia Hayes-Cowley as Raksha.  Arran Wilson will portray Bagheera and local, young talent Kyla Hurdley and Ruby Grayson will play Mowgli.

Packed with high-energy dance routines and popular songs, this family favourite story continues New Theatre Royal’s tradition of presenting Easter pantomimes. The theatre’s Artistic Director, Natalie Hayes-Cowley, says “Who said pantomimes are just for Christmas? The whole theatre family can’t wait to finally showcase The Jungle Book… it’s been a long time coming!  This will be our eighth in-house pantomime since we took over the theatre in 2016 and our Easter pantomimes are becoming increasingly popular amongst our patrons.

“The last couple of years have been so difficult for everyone, including the theatre. We are still feeling the affects of the pandemic, which makes shows like The Jungle Book so important. It is an in-house production, meaning we get to keep the ticket revenue raised, which is re-invested back into the theatre. That’s opposed to touring productions, where we only see between 15 to 20% of ticket sales. So, audiences that come to The Jungle Book aren’t just having a great afternoon or evening of entertainment, they are also supporting the theatre so that we can continue to bring the best in live entertainment for generations to come.”

The Jungle Book is running from Friday, April 8th to Saturday, April 16th. 
There is a relaxed performance on Thursday, April 14th, at 2.30pm. 
Tickets start from £20.50 (adults), £13 (child), £59 (family – max. 2 adults).
Call the Box Office on 01522 519999 or visit www.newtheatreroyallincoln.co.uk