The atmosphere was quite literally electric as the thunderous rumble of a mid-summer storm blackened the sky over the spectacular inner courtyard of Herstmonceux Castle.

As the children shuffled excitedly waiting for the show to start it became apparent that the outdoor theatrical treat was in jeopardy as big fat raindrops attempted to ‘stop play’.

Chapterhouse Theatre quickly made the decision to transfer the whole caboodle into the castle's ballroom for a pared-down version so as not to disappoint their young audience.

Designed for easy-touring the show translated easily into the new space and the performers got down to some serious Kipling style story-telling.

It feels unfair to judge the show too harshly under the circumstances, and there is no doubt that the original setting in the castle grounds would have given the occasion a distinct veneer of magic, however it felt that this adaptation was clunky and repetitious.

The fresh young actors were doubtlessly enthusiastic but lacked depth and variation so consequently there was little real on-stage chemistry between them.

The fun Indian inspired costumes and delightful puppets were not quite enough to keep the audience fully engaged.

Perhaps a bit more participation like Baloo's dance lesson during the interval would have helped with maintaining their focus.