JANE OF THE JUNGLE
A trip to South Coast Repertory always yields a well-constructed and visually pleasing production, and their recent youth-oriented programs are no exception. The strong acting, atmosphere, and technical knowhow make for an enjoyable and entertaining show.

Jane of the Jungle is a coming of age tale told through the eyes of a group of adolescents on the brink of crossing over into the wild world of teenagers and adults. With a big, “totally cool” party looming on the horizon, Jane (Renee’ Brna) goes to bed excited and secure with who she is. When she awakes, she has started to change. Her slow evolution into adulthood is suddenly sidetracked as ears, spots, and a tail dash any hopes of fitting in that Jane might have held to.

Saddled with the task of getting her little brother Milo (Eymard Cabling) safely to his play date before heading to the party, Jane realizes that her physical changes are just the start. Vines swing all across the neighborhood and her friends, too, bear striking resemblances to jungle creatures. At every turn, Jane confronts her own desire to be accepted and the mistakes and anger that go with the difficulty of growing up. Eventually, she sees the reflection of her own actions in those around her, including her little brother and her loving but erratic friend Kayla (Erika Whalen).

Jane’s first venture into the jungle of adulthood does not go how she planned, but, like us all, she must learn from what she experiences and try to apply it to the next day. Her willingness to change and embrace who she is ultimately leads her to stronger relationships and a deeper understanding of what it means to be human.

The production elements for Jane of the Jungle are top notch. The set design is both aesthetically pleasing and practical. The lighting design stands out for both its delicacy and adaptability, and the performances are as funny as they are filled with allegory. The script is simple but effective, though at times falling into some minor pitfalls often present in children’s drama. The direction by Juliette Carrillo gives the show a rhythm and continuity that keeps children and adults engaged. As Jane, Brna is both childlike and honest, moving the show along with great feeling and meaning. Considerable comedy is aptly contributed by the entire acting ensemble with melodious tones and striking movement from top to bottom. Playing a multitude of characters, the strong cast provides great entertainment and gets every ounce of fun out of this crowd pleasing show. Without a doubt, Jane of the Jungle is a wild ride of fun, but the greatest part of it is the exposure of young people to a well-produced and pleasurable theatrical experience.