Wolfpack Theatre Company will draw audiences into the spectacular jungle world of “Tarzan: The Stage Musical” at Glacier High School this weekend.

Based on the Disney film, this story of unlikely family bonds is full of adventure complete with swinging performers, high-flying apes and choreography with a jungle flair. Supported by 17 talented Glacier High musicians, the cast carries the audience into the story with heartfelt songs such as “You’ll Be in My Heart,” “Two Worlds One Family” and “Strangers Like Me.”

The show's musical score, written by Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Phil Collins, sets the jungle beat for this musical, written by Tony-winning playwright David Henry Hwang.

“‘Tarzan’ is a fun show ultimately about enjoying the family you have,” director Ivanna Fritz said. “The show is all about finding who you are and where you belong. Tarzan and Jane find out that although families look different, they are no less important.”

Set in an African jungle, “Tarzan” follows the extraordinary adventures of an orphaned baby who is taken under the protection of a gorilla tribe and becomes part of their family. As Tarzan matures into a teenager, he develops the instincts of a jungle animal and the physical prowess of an athletic superstar.

Tarzan’s life changes forever when he first encounters other humans when the jungle is invaded by an expedition team intent on studying gorillas in their natural habitat. Tarzan develops an immediate and irresistible bond with Jane, the daughter of the lead scientist. Despite challenges, foes and differences, Jane and Tarzan find that together, they can overcome all obstacles.

When it seems as if nothing could go wrong in the delightfully wild jungle, Clayton, the protector of the expedition team, decides to capture a gorilla for his personal gains. Tarzan is torn by his loyalties to his gorilla family and his newfound bond with humans.

“I was pleasantly surprised to see that the story of the musical is much more focused on family versus love interest. Although that is a great part of the story, I want people to reflect on the connections to the people in their own lives that are really important,” Fritz said.

“I love that I can be moved by a story that is pretty fluffy overall. I guess that's the magic of Disney.”

Wolfpack Theatre Company is exploring new territory by producing a musical based on a Disney film.

“This is the first time we have done a ‘pop’ musical. The show is newly released, and we actually had to be on a wait list to perform. I don't believe it has been done in Montana yet,” Fritz said.

“There are differences from the film version of the show. There is more singing by characters, and the story line is changed a bit. Magical plants and an evil human, Clayton, give us the conflicts needed for a night of great theater.”

This production of “Tarzan” is full of imaginative touches that inspire the audience to become a part of the jungle scene. For the first time, aerial silks will be used in the Wolfpack Theatre.

“We have had a great time climbing our aerial silks and learning some tricks,” Fritz said. “With our stage in the round, flying on vines isn't the easiest challenge to overcome. This group of students has amazed me with their athleticism, playful nature and ability to try new things.”