The British Council New Zealand and the Pacific is pleased to support the appearance of the Akram Khan Company at the 2024 Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts.
Opening the 2024 festival at the St James Theatre in Wellington, the company will present its international sensation Jungle Book reimagined for its only New Zealand season (23–25 February). Multi award-winning choreographer Khan has reinterpreted the classic story of Mowgli’s journey through the eyes of a young refugee caught in a world devastated by the impact of climate change. Khan explains the premise, “At some point our civilisation shifted and we started to think that we controlled nature, that we are not guests but owners of nature, of earth. The young generation are so engaged in reversing that thinking - that actually we are guests, as much as the other species.”
The company is currently touring Jungle Book reimagined in Europe, Canada and USA, performing at New York’s Lincoln Centre before heading to Aotearoa.
"Jungle Book reimagined feels like a blockbuster cinematic experience with a powerful message for us all. It’s truly exceptional." (The Stage)
Akram Khan (he/him) is one of the most celebrated and respected dance artists of today. In just over 22 years he has created a body of work that has contributed significantly to the arts in the UK and abroad. His company has established itself as one of the foremost innovative dance companies in the world embracing an artistic vision that both respects and challenges Indian kathak form and contemporary dance.
Natasha Beckman, Director of the British Council in New Zealand and the Pacific, says “Akram Khan’s Jungle Book reimagined has astounded audiences all over the world since its premiere in the UK in 2022. We are excited to be supporting this extraordinary show which will open the Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts.”
Performances will take place as follows:
- Friday 23 February at 19.00
- Saturday 24 February at 13.00
- Saturday 24 February at 19.00
- Sunday 25 February at 13.00.