The students of Medway Middle School took to the stage to bring Rudyard Kipling’s beloved classic, The Jungle Book, to life in a heartwarming performance that captivated audiences. The Jungle Book marks the third fall play performance by the middle school continuing a tradition of showcasing the impressive creativity and teamwork of its students. The play tells the adventurous tale of Mowgli, a young boy raised by wolves in the Indian jungle. Through his journey, Mowgli learns valuable lessons about the importance of community, respect for nature, and the delicate balance between civilization and the wild.

Directed by Ms. Nori von Jena, the production featured a talented ensemble of over 20 7th and 8th graders bringing a jungle of entertaining personalities to life.  Mya McDowell (Gr. 8, Baloo) says “Being in the Jungle Book is like having a second family. We work together, practice lines, laugh and by the end of the show have a community we never knew we built.” 

The performance also showcased the talents of students behind the scenes, who contributed to the production’s success in a variety of crucial roles. From building elaborate jungle sets to designing intricate costumes, every detail was crafted with care and dedication. Students also took on the challenging task of makeup artistry, transforming their peers into a diverse array of animal characters, including a fierce tiger, a wise bear, and a playful panther. Special guest Mr. Ari King, the school’s Assistant Principal, made a memorable and entertaining appearance as a human trying to communicate with Mowgli.