THE story of a little boy adopted by animals in the Indian jungle is Malvern Theatre Players' latest production.

Rudyard Kipling's classic The Jungle Book is at Malvern Theatres from Thursday to Saturday, January 12-21

The show is dedicated to JJ Smith, the 26-year-old teacher who died last month and was a member of the group.

Company manager Chris Bassett said: "The Jungle Book is a terrific show with lots of action and audience participation. It's an ideal post-Christmas treat for all the family."

The plot follows the adventures of a boy, Mowgli, who is raised by jungle beasts with crazy and dangerous consequences.

Director Andrew Howie said the production would be nothing like the Disney film.

He said: "The Disney one is not particularly in the spirit of Kipling."

Mr Howie's characters actually have to eat other animals to survive. He has also moved away from the sing-along songs of the Disney version. Instead, Philip Holland has set Kipling's chants to original music.

This will be the first Theatre Players' production to be directed by Mr Howie, who was a founder member of the company and has been in most of their productions over the last 29 years.

The costumes were designed by students from Worcester College of technology on the HND costume and make-up course.

Open auditions were held and 80 auditioned for the 14 children's parts.

Robbie Field plays the younger Mowgli, with Laurence Jepson taking over when he grows older. Baloo the bear will be played by Darren Morris and Lee Farley takes the part of Bagheera the black panther.

Dianne Lloyd is Kaa the snake and John Denham plays tiger Shere Khan.

Tickets are £8.50, (concessions £7.50) and £5.50 under-16s. Call 01684 892277.