The Allentown Public Theatre (APT) production of "The Jungle Book," based on the book by Rudyard Kipling, features Teague Fernandez, a Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts graduate, as Mowgli.

APT's "The Jungle Book" is presented 6 p.m. Aug. 8, 15 and 2 p.m. Aug. 9, 10, 16 and 17, St. Luke's Lutheran Church, 417 N. Seventh St., Allentown.

"The play is based on the traditional Kipling story and is written by Tim Kelly," says Allentown resident and Public Theatre Board President Marcie Schlener, director of "The Jungle Book."

"We wanted to stray away from the Disney version and stick to the classic," Schlener says.

"The costumes and set have an Asian-Indian look. There are a lot of Asian-Indian influences throughout the play."

Puppets and costumes are by Rose Schlener.

Schlener says the production is very participatory. "I've been trying to make all of our shows about more audience participation," she says.

"In 'The Jungle Book,' we bring audience members on stage. The kids can make animal sounds. The audience can drum along with the drums.

"We aren't very traditional. We like to do fresh takes on traditional pieces with an experimental flair.

"It's going to be a great time," says Schlener. "There is no limit to who will enjoy this show. It's for the whole family.

"We don't have a home yet," Schlener says. "We are still looking for a space.

"We have been performing all over the Allentown area since 2009. We've been at the Allentown Brew Works, America on Wheels Museum and St. Luke's Church," Schlener says.

APT's "The Jungle Book" is free for children 12 and under. Adults and teens are asked to donate what they can.