Honus and Me - Plays for Young Audiences

Transcription

New Additions to the Catalog!
Biggest Little House in the Forest................................8
The Brementown Musicians………………………………………10
Frankenstein………………….………………………………………….22
Hansel & Gretel (Kenny)…………………………………………….31
Iron Ring…………………………………………………………………….37
Penrod……………………………………………………………………….53
Pharaoh Serket & the Lost Stone of Fire…………………….56
Punch & Judy and the Three Sillies…………………….………60
The Railway Children………………………………………………….61
The Snow Queen (Way)……………………………………………..73
Tremendously Tall Tales…………………………………………....81
Ukrainian Tales………………………………………………………….83
Zagazoo……………………………………………………………………..88
Short Plays (continued)
Jack...............................................................................38
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow & Rip Van Winkle...........41
The Lost Child………….....................................................44
One Dark Night..............................................................52
One Snowy Night…………...............................................52
Punch & Judy and the Three Sillies...............................60
Reeling…………...............................................................64
The Song from the Sea………….......................................73
A Special Trade…………...................................................74
A Spell of Cold Weather………….....................................75
Stepping on Cracks………….............................................76
Trouble….......................................................................82
Visiting Grandad….........................................................84
Walking the Tightrope…................................................85
Zagazoo…......................................................................88
SCT Drama School Summer Season Plays
Written Specifically for Young Actors
As You Like It…………......................................................89
Dracula…………...............................................................89
Dracula: Origins…………..................................................90
Gulliver’s Travels…………................................................90
Macbeth………….............................................................91
A Midsummer Night’s Dream…………............................91
Much Ado About Nothing…………..................................92
The Odyssey………….......................................................92
The Tempest…...............................................................93
Twelfth Night………….....................................................93
Short Plays (run time of an hour or less)
Antigone…………...............................................................4
Bag Dancing…………..........................................................5
The Biggest Little House in the Forest............................8
Cinderella’s Sisters........................................................14
Cloud Pictures...............................................................15
The Elves and the Shoemakers.....................................19
Everyone Knows What a Dragon Looks Like……............20
The Gardener...............................................................23
Glittra’s Mission...........................................................24
Goldilocks and the Two Bears.......................................28
Multicultural
The Adventures of Mottel…………....................................1
Average Family………….....................................................5
The Beggars’ Strike…………...............................................7
Boundless Grace…………...................................................8
Don Quixote………….......................................................17
The Dutiful Daughter....................................................17
Esperanza Rising………….................................................19
Everyone Knows What a Dragon Looks Like…………......20
Iqbal..............................................................................37
Iron Ring………….............................................................37
The Lost Boys of Sudan…………......................................43
The Monkey King…………...............................................48
The Nightingale…………..................................................49
Not Without Laughter...................................................50
Pharaoh Serket & the Lost Stone of Fire …………...........56
Red Earth.....................................................................63
Sinbad: The Untold Tale...............................................70
Snapshot Silhouette…………...........................................72
Ukrainian Tales...........................................................83
Wondrous Tales of Old Japan…………............................87
Musicals
6 or Less Cast Members (cont.)
Animal Fables from Aesop…………...................................3
The Beggars’ Strike….......................................................7
Boundless Grace…...........................................................8
The Brementown Musicians.........................................10
Bunnicula…....................................................................11
Busytown…....................................................................12
Go, Dog. Go!..................................................................25
Harriet’s Halloween Candy….........................................32
The Hoboken Chicken Emergency…..............................32
Mad Meg: An Opera…...................................................44
Madeline and the Gypsies............................................45
Merry Christmas, Strega Nona…...................................47
Mister Pickwick’s Christmas…………...............................48
The Old Man Who Loved Cheese...............................…50
Peter and the Wolf….....................................................54
Peter Pan (Mason)…......................................................56
Pinocchio (Henry)........................................................57
Pippi Longstocking.......................................................58
Prince Brat and the Whipping Boy.............................…60
Puss in Boots…..............................................................61
Sleeping Beauty (Way)…...............................................71
The Sorcerer’s Apprentice…..........................................74
Stellaluna....................................................................76
Tale of a West Texas Marsupial Girl…...........................78
The Wind in the Willows............................................…86
The Dutiful Daughter…..................................................17
The Elves and the Shoemakers…...................................19
Everyone Knows What a Dragon Looks Like.................20
Eye of the Storm...........................................................20
Fairytales About Love....................................................21
The Flood......................................................................22
The Gardener................................................................23
Gentle Giant..................................................................23
Glittra’s Mission............................................................24
Go, Dog. Go!..................................................................25
Grandad’s Big Adventure..............................................28
Hamlet.......................................................................29
Hansel & Gretel (Kenny)................................................31
Huck Finn......................................................................34
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie........................................36
Jack................................................................................38
The Little Match Girl.....................................................42
The Little Mermaid.......................................................42
Mad Meg: An Opera......................................................44
Nicky Somewhere Else.................................................49
One Dark Night..............................................................52
One Snowy Night..........................................................52
Peter and the Wolf.......................................................54
Peter Pan (Irvine)..........................................................55
Playing from the Heart..................................................59
Punch & Judy and the Three Sillies..............................60
Red Earth....................................................................63
The Reluctant Dragon...................................................64
Ricky of the Tuft..........................................................65
Rumpelstiltskin............................................................68
The Search for Odysseus...............................................72
Sinbad: The Untold Tale................................................70
Sink or Swim..................................................................70
The Snow Queen (Kenny).............................................72
The Song from the Sea.................................................73
A Special Trade..............................................................74
A Spell of Cold Weather................................................75
Stellaluna......................................................................76
Stepping on Cracks.......................................................76
Stepping Stones..........................................................77
Cast Size
6 or Less Cast Members
Aesop’s Fables…………......................................................2
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland…...............................3
Apple to Grandma........................................................4
Bag Dancing…..................................................................5
Beauty and the Beast (Kenny)…......................................6
Beauty and the Beast (Way)….........................................7
Bunnicula…....................................................................11
Cinderella’s Sisters….....................................................14
Cloud Pictures…............................................................15
Diary of an Action Man…..............................................16
6 or Less Cast Members (cont.)
Stuck...........................................................................78
Tremendously Tall Tales................................................81
Trouble........................................................................82
The Velveteen Rabbit (Olson).......................................83
The Velveteen Rabbit (Janse).......................................84
Visiting Grandad.........................................................84
Walking the Tightrope..................................................85
Whiter Than Snow........................................................85
Zagazoo ........................................................................88
7 – 12 Cast Members
Antigone…………...............................................................4
Average Family................................................................5
Boundless Grace.............................................................8
The Boxcar Children........................................................9
The Canterville Ghost....................................................13
Cinderella......................................................................14
The Emperor’s New Clothes..........................................18
The Golden Goose.........................................................26
Goldilocks & the 3 Bears, and Little Red Riding Hood...27
Hansel & Gretel (Staffa)................................................30
Harold and the Purple Crayon.......................................31
Harriet’s Halloween Candy...........................................32
Honus and Me...............................................................33
The Hundred Dresses....................................................35
Iqbal.............................................................................37
Jack and the Beanstalk..................................................38
Kidnapped in London....................................................40
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow........................................41
The Lost Child................................................................44
The Magic City...............................................................46
The Old Man Who Loved Cheese.................................50
Once Upon a Forest......................................................51
Our Only May Amelia....................................................53
Pharaoh Serket and the Lost Stone of Fire...................56
Prince Brat and the Whipping Boy................................60
The Railway Children.....................................................61
The Red Badge of Courage............................................62
7 – 12 Cast Members (cont.)
Rip Van Winkle..............................................................66
Rumpelstiltskin.............................................................71
The Secret Garden........................................................69
Sleeping Beauty (Musical).............................................71
Snapshot Silhouette......................................................72
The Snow Queen (Way)................................................73
The Sorcerer’s Apprentice............................................77
Tales of a 4th Grade Nothing.........................................79
The Tinderbox...............................................................80
Treasure Island (Gaines)...............................................80
Whiter Than Snow........................................................89
13 or More Cast Members
The Adventures of Mottel...............................................1
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer......................................1
Alice in Wonderland........................................................2
Animal Fables from Aesop..............................................3
Beatrix Potter’s Christmas..............................................6
The Beggars’ Strike..........................................................7
Boy with the Suitcase......................................................9
Busytown......................................................................12
A Christmas Carol..........................................................13
The Clown of God..........................................................15
The Devil and Daniel Webster.......................................16
Don Quixote..................................................................17
Dracula..........................................................................17
Dracula: Origins.............................................................18
East of the Sun and West of the Moon.........................18
Esperanza Rising............................................................19
Fashion 47.....................................................................21
Frankenstein.................................................................22
The Hoboken Chicken Emergency.................................32
The Hound of Baskervilles.............................................34
Iron Ring........................................................................37
Jason and the Golden Fleece........................................39
The Jungle Book............................................................39
King Arthur and the Magic Sword.................................40
Little Women................................................................43
The Lost Boys of Sudan.................................................43
13 or More Cast Members (cont.)
Madeline and the Gypsies.............................................45
The Marvelous Land of Oz............................................46
Merry Christmas, Strega Nona......................................47
The Midwife’s Apprentice.............................................47
Mister Pickwick’s Christmas..........................................48
The Monkey King..........................................................48
The Nightingale.............................................................49
Oliver Twist...................................................................51
Penrod...........................................................................53
Peter Pan (Mason)........................................................56
The Pied Piper of Hamelin.............................................57
Pinocchio (Henry).......................................................57
Pinocchio (Mason).......................................................58
Pippi Longstocking........................................................58
The Prince and the Pauper............................................59
Puss in Boots.................................................................61
Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm.......................................62
Red Red Shoes.............................................................63
Reeling..........................................................................64
Rembrandt Takes a Walk..............................................65
Robin Hood...................................................................66
Romeo and Juliet (Banks)..............................................67
Romeo and Juliet (Giomi).............................................67
Search for Odysseus.....................................................68
Sherlock Holmes and the Baker Street Irregulars.........69
Sleeping Beauty (Non-musical).....................................71
Starry Messenger..........................................................75
The Story of Babar, the Little Elephant.........................77
Tale of a West Texas Marsupial Girl..............................78
The Three Musketeers..................................................79
Treasure Island (Mason)...............................................81
The Troubles: Children of Belfast..................................82
Ukrainian Tales............................................................83
The Wind in the Willows...............................................86
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.......................................86
Wondrous Tales of Old Japan.......................................87
Young Jane Eyre............................................................87
Audience Age Recommendations
Plays for All Ages
Aesop’s Fables…………......................................................2
Alice in Wonderland........................................................2
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland..................................3
Animal Fables from Aesop..............................................3
Apple to Grandma...........................................................4
Bag Dancing....................................................................5
Beatrix Potter’s Christmas..............................................6
Beauty and the Beast (Kenny).........................................6
Beauty and the Beast (Way)...........................................7
Busytown......................................................................12
A Christmas Carol..........................................................13
Cinderella......................................................................14
Cloud Pictures...............................................................15
The Clown of God..........................................................15
The Dutiful Daughter....................................................17
The Elves and the Shoemakers.....................................19
Everyone Knows What a Dragon Looks Like.................20
The Flood......................................................................22
The Gardener................................................................23
Go, Dog. Go!..................................................................25
The Golden Goose.........................................................26
Goldilocks & the 3 Bears, and Little Red Riding Hood...27
Grandad’s Big Adventure..............................................28
Harold and the Purple Crayon.......................................31
Harriet’s Halloween Candy...........................................32
The Hoboken Chicken Emergency.................................32
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie........................................36
Jack................................................................................38
Jack and the Beanstalk..................................................38
The Lost Child................................................................44
Madeline and the Gypsies.............................................45
Merry Christmas, Strega Nona......................................47
Mister Pickwick’s Christmas..........................................48
The Old Man Who Loved Cheese..................................50
Oliver Twist...................................................................51
Plays for All Ages (cont.)
Plays for Age 6 and Up (cont.)
One Dark Night..............................................................52
One Snowy Night..........................................................52
Peter and the Wolf........................................................54
Pinocchio (Henry)..........................................................57
Pippi Longstocking........................................................58
Puss in Boots.................................................................61
Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm.......................................62
Reeling..........................................................................64
The Reluctant Dragon...................................................64
Rembrandt Takes a Walk..............................................65
Sinbad: The Untold Tale................................................70
Sleeping Beauty (Musical).............................................71
Sleeping Beauty (Non-Musical).....................................71
The Snow Queen (Kenny)..............................................72
The Song from the Sea..................................................73
A Special Trade..............................................................74
A Spell of Cold Weather................................................75
Stellaluna......................................................................76
Stepping on Cracks.......................................................76
Stepping Stones............................................................77
Story of Babar, the Little Elephant................................77
The Tinderbox...............................................................80
Tremendously Tall Tales...............................................81
Trouble..........................................................................82
Ukrainian Tales..............................................................83
The Velveteen Rabbit (Janse).......................................84
Visiting Grandad............................................................84
Walking the Tightrope..................................................85
The Wind in the Willows...............................................86
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz........................................86
Wondrous Tales of Old Japan.......................................87
Zagazoo.........................................................................88
Cinderella’s Sisters........................................................14
Diary of an Action Man.................................................16
East of the Sun and West of the Moon.........................18
The Emperor’s New Clothes..........................................18
Fairytales About Love....................................................21
Gentle Giant..................................................................23
Glittra’s Mission..........................................................24
Hansel & Gretel (Kenny)................................................31
The Hound of Baskervilles.............................................34
The Jungle Book............................................................39
Kidnapped in London....................................................40
King Arthur and the Magic Sword.................................40
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow........................................41
The Little Mermaid........................................................42
Little Women................................................................43
Mad Meg: An Opera......................................................44
The Marvelous Land of Oz............................................46
The Monkey King..........................................................48
Nicky Somewhere Else..................................................49
The Nightingale.............................................................49
Once Upon a Forest......................................................51
Penrod...........................................................................53
Peter Pan (Irvine)..........................................................55
Peter Pan (Mason)........................................................56
Pinocchio (Mason)........................................................58
Playing from the Heart..................................................59
Prince and the Pauper...................................................59
Prince Brat and the Whipping Boy...............................60
Punch & Judy, and the Three Sillies..............................60
Ricky of the Tuft............................................................65
Rip Van Winkle..............................................................66
Robin Hood...................................................................66
The Snow Queen (Way)................................................73
Starry Messenger..........................................................75
Tale of a West Texas Marsupial Girl..............................78
Tales of a 4th Grade Nothing.........................................79
The Three Musketeers..................................................79
Treasure Island (Mason)...............................................81
Whiter Than Snow........................................................85
Plays for Age 6 and Up:
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer......................................1
Boundless Grace.............................................................8
The Boxcar Children........................................................9
Boy with the Suitcase......................................................9
Bunnicula......................................................................11
The Canterville Ghost....................................................13
Don Quixote..................................................................17
Esperanza Rising............................................................19
Hansel and Gretel (Staffa).............................................30
Honus and Me...............................................................33
Huck Finn......................................................................34
The Hundred Dresses....................................................35
The Little Match Girl.....................................................42
The Magic City...............................................................46
The Midwife’s Apprentice.............................................47
Our Only May Amelia....................................................53
Pharaoh Serket & the Lost Stone of Fire......................56
The Railway Children.....................................................61
Rumpelstiltskin..............................................................68
The Secret Garden........................................................69
Sink or Swim..................................................................70
Treasure Island (Gaines)...............................................80
The Devil and Daniel Webster.......................................16
Hamlet..........................................................................29
Jason and the Golden Fleece........................................39
The Red Badge of Courage............................................62
Red Red Shoes...............................................................63
Romeo and Juliet (Giomi)..............................................67
The Search for Odysseus...............................................68
The Adventures of Mottel...............................................1
Average Family................................................................5
The Beggars’ Strike..........................................................7
Frankenstein.................................................................22
Iqbal..............................................................................37
Iron Ring........................................................................37
The Pied Piper of Hamelin.............................................57
Red Earth.......................................................................63
Sherlock Holmes and the Baker Street Irregulars.........69
Snapshot Silhouette.....................................................72
Stuck..............................................................................78
The Troubles: Children of Belfast..................................82
Young Jane Eyre............................................................87
Antigone...................................................................4
Eye of the Storm.......................................................20
Fashion 47................................................................21
Romeo and Juliet (Banks)..............................................67
The Lost Boys of Sudan.................................................43
Plays for Young Audiences (PYA) is a partnership venture between The Children’s
Theatre Company in Minneapolis (CTC) and Seattle Children’s Theatre (SCT), the
two leading theatres for young people in the nation. In July 2004, CTC and SCT
created PYA to provide a centralized clearinghouse of scripts written for young
audiences to professional theatres, amateur/ community theatres and schools. Both
CTC and SCT are well known for commissioning productions that are topical,
contemporary, fantastical, and written by today’s leading playwrights. PYA
customers come from all fifty United States and numerous countries around the
world. Through its service to the larger children’s theatre community, PYA is a
catalyst to drive the field of theatre for young people to new heights.
The Children's Theatre Company (CTC), located in Minneapolis, Minnesota,
exists to create extraordinary theatre experiences, and to advance theatre
as a means of educating, challenging and inspiring young people.
Established in 1965, CTC has grown to become the leading professional
theatre company for young people in North America, and among the three
largest in the world. Recipient of the 2003 Tony® Award for Outstanding
Regional Theatre, the Nickelodeon's Parents Picks Award winner for Best
Children's Theatre in the Twin Cities, as well as numerous other honors, CTC
is held in high esteem by its peers nationally and internationally, and serves
as an innovator for the field. CTC serves 275,000 to 350,000 young people
and families annually in five key program areas each year: stage
productions, new play development, community partnerships, theatre arts
training, and an annual regional tour. For more information on CTC, go to
www.childrenstheatre.org or call (612) 874-0500.
Seattle Children's Theatre (SCT), located in Seattle, Washington, is the
second largest resident theatre for young audiences in North America,
as listed in Time Magazine. Founded in 1975, SCT has developed and
improved the caliber of plays available for young audiences in the
United States and abroad, developing and producing over 100 new
works. The mission of SCT is to provide children of all ages access to
professional theatre, with a focus on new works, and theatre
education. SCT reaches over 250,000 patrons each season. For more
information on SCT, go to www.sct.org or call (206) 443-0807.
The Adventures of Mottel
Author: Sholom Aleichem
Playwright: Thomas W. Olson/Judith Sher
Music: Alan Shorter
58 pgs. 13 Male, 11 Female
Originally produced in CTC’s 1985-86 season
Audience Recommendation: 10+
Synopsis: A story of adventure and misadventure set in Russia in the year 1905. A
Jewish boy named Mottel meets, with wit and good cheer, the trials of living
under the rule of a cruel Czar. Mottel has many adventures, such as causing the
whole town to sneeze, dying the river (and in effect all the laundry) blue, and
eventually travelling to America. We are able to experience what life was like for
Jews in Russia at this time while being entertained by the mishaps of a young boy.
Classroom Reading Fee: $50 per classroom, per semester
Amateur/Educational Royalty Fee: $75 per performance
Professional Royalty Fee: please inquire for a quote
Buck Busfield, Michael Gallager and ensemble Photo by Sal Skog.
The royalty fee includes permission to make copies of the perusal script for your cast.
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
Author: Mark Twain
Playwright: Timothy Mason
84 pgs. 3 female, 14 male +ensemble
Run Time: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Synopsis: The loveable Tom Sawyer and his pals take us back to the sweet summer days
when sternwheelers commanded the mighty Mississippi. A time when kids fished,
teased schoolmates, and stole kisses in the schoolyard. From the opening flourish of the
fiddle to a closing joyous leap into the Mississippi, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer is a
winning combination of adventure, humor and nostalgia.
“[The Adventures of Tom Sawyer] is good story-telling and it rings
with authenticity, even in these more cynical, hyped-up days.”
–Minneapolis Star Tribune
John Peitzman, Travis Fine. Photo by Gianetti Studios.
www.playsforyoungaudiences.org
PYA 2009-2010 Script Catalog
1
Aesop’s Fables
Playwright: Mike Kenny
33 pgs. 4 characters
Originally produced by Sherman Theatre, UK, in 2002
Run Time: 75 minutes
Audience Recommendation: All Ages
Synopsis: Wolfie, Syd, Barry, and Harriet invite you into their magical world where
anything is possible when you use your imagination. Whether it's The Tortoise And The
Hare or The Boy Who Cried Wolf, everyone knows at least one of Aesop's great fables. In
this spellbinding production, storytellers use song, dance, and drama to bring these
famous fables to life.
“A ground breaking theatrical experience for children”
-Wales on Sunday, UK
Illustration by Will Hayes.
Alice in Wonderland
Author: Lewis Carroll
Playwright: Sharon Holland
Music: Victor Zupanc
61 pgs. 4 female, 23 male +ensemble (Doubling is possible)
Synopsis: The “curiouser and curiouser” story of Alice’s fall down
the rabbit hole, where she has tea with the Mad Hatter, is
counseled by a sassy Caterpillar, befriends a grinning Cheshire
Cat, and tries to avoid being beheaded by the Queen of Hearts.
Alice in Wonderland reminds us to question what is conventional
and believe what can be extraordinary.
Sarah Agnew as Alice. Photo by Rob Levine.
“Alice in Wonderland is a triumph of imagination in which nonsense cavorts with meaning in a celebration
of language.” –Chanhassen Villager, MN
The royalty fee includes permission to make copies of the perusal script for your cast. Production-quality CD available for an
additional fee.
2
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland
Author: Lewis Carroll
Playwright: Deborah Lynn Frockt
74 pgs. 6 actors
Originally produced in SCT’s 1995-96 season
Synopsis: It’s a very ordinary and rather boring day for Alice, until she
spots a White Rabbit with a pocket watch whizzing through a world
that’s beyond imagination! Her insatiable curiosity draws her into a
madcap adventure in which she meets remarkable characters like the
Caterpillar, Talking Flowers, a Duchess and her Cook, a Gryphon and
Mock Turtle, a Mad Hatter and a March Hare. When Alice finally
catches up with the White Rabbit in the Queen’s Court, she’s in for her
biggest adventure of all. The wonder-filled world of Alice is a fantastic
journey for the adventurous of any age.
Jane Ryan, Chris O’Connor, Julyana Soelistyo, and Allen Galli. Photo by Chris Bennion.
“This big, color-splashed show retains Carroll’s wonderfully imaginative and familiar characters, and much
of his playfully nonsensical verse.” –The Seattle Times
Animal Fables from Aesop
Author: Barbara McClintock
Playwright: Marisha Chamberlain
Music: Roberta Carlson
34 pgs. 15 female, 15 male (Doubling possible)
Synopsis: A play-within-a-play operetta led by the narration of a
goat. We are swept into a peaceable kingdom where the players
at a country fair weave together 16 of Aesop’s enchanting fables.
We learn the classic morals of “slow and steady wins the race”
and “practice makes perfect,” along with the more obscure “shun
the quack” and “fancy dress cannot change the body inside,” and
are rewarded with real life lessons in a fun and exciting setting.
Leif Jurgensen, Bridget O’Flaherty, and Bruce Thompson.
3
Antigone
Author: Sophocles
Playwright: Greg Banks
Synopsis: It takes guts to stand up to the most powerful man in the country.
Especially when you're 15. After both of her brothers kill each other in opposing
sides of a war, Antigone dares to defy her uncle, King Creon, by burying her
‘traitor’ brother. When Creon discovers that Antigone has performed the burial
despite his command, he orders her to be walled up in a cave alive, thus starving
her to death. Creon does not listen to the pleadings of Ismene, Antigone’s sister,
nor his son Haemon, who is engaged to Antigone. Haemon goes to Antigone’s
cave, sees that she has hung herself and kills himself as well. Hearing this, his
mother also takes her own life at the fateful end of this Greek tragedy.
“Call the fire department. Antigone is hot, loud and explosive.”
- Minneapolis Star Tribune
Sonja Parks as Antigone. Photo by Rob Levine
“When [Antigone] casts those burning eyes into the audience and proclaims that ‘What a person can do, a
person ought to do,’ it makes you want to run out and paint a picket sign for whatever you happen to
believe in.” –St. Paul Pioneer Press
Apple to Grandma
Author: Saskia Janse
28 pgs. 3 actors/puppeteers
Originally produced by: Speeltheater Holland 2001
Audience recommendation: All Ages
Synopsis: Josie is very disappointed. Since her grandma had to move
to a nursing home, she isn't allowed to stay overnight with her
anymore. When grandma was still living in her own beautiful house
they used to pick apples and Josie could bring them to the attic for
her. Josie decides to make a beautiful painting for her grandma, and
bring her an apple from the old apple tree, their favourite place.
Performance at Speeltheater Holland
4
Average Family
Playwright: Larissa Fasthorse
67 pgs. 3 female, 7 male
Synopsis: Two families. One reality TV show. Who will survive three
months as an 1840's frontier family on the Minnesota prairie? Will it
be the urbane Rubidoux’s, from Minneapolis? Or the no-nonsense,
live-off-the-land Monroe’s, from the North Shore? Soon enough,
both families find they've more to overcome than just the elements.
Elaine Patterson, Raven Bellefleur. Photo by Rob Levine.
It's an adventure (all caught on confession cam!) fraught with
laughable predicaments and harrowing incidents. And when one family reconnects with their Dakota culture, it leads to
startling revelations for all, inspiring the true spirit of generosity.
"[Larissa FastHorse] smartly uproots many of the stereotypes surrounding American Indians...The
playwright is breaking new ground here, and, in the process, establishing new life in theater ."
- Twin Cities Star Tribune
Bag Dancing
Originally produced by Blah, Blah, Blah, UK, in 1988
Synopsis: Bag Dancing explores the touching relationship
between Imelda, a bag lady, and Neville, a hotel caretaker.
Both are advanced in years and they develop a warm
friendship. While one is forever going somewhere, the
other has nowhere to go. Through their conversations we learn
about their lives and experiences, their personal and
social histories. Their tales are both humorous and poignant,
challenging many preconceptions about old age.
Illustrated by Kyle Schuler.
5
Beatrix Potter’s Christmas
Author: Beatrix Potter
Playwright: Thomas W. Olson
Music: Anita Ruth
Synopsis: The imagination of young Beatrix Potter comes alive
when we find her home for the holidays with nothing but her
brother, Bertram, and her imagination to make Christmas as
wonderful as it should be. Her dreams and drawings come alive in
the form of Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddle-Duck, and many others
as they all work together to imagine the best Christmas possible!
Leif Jurgensen and Stephen Alexander.
“Beatrix Potter’s Christmas is a musical with enough whimsical characters to make Scrooge smile.”
–Daily News, MN
Beauty and the Beast
Author: LePrince de Beaumont
Originally produced by Oxford Touring Theatre, UK, in 2005
Synopsis: This is a refreshing, funny twist on a classic tale. Beauty is a spoiled girl who has
never had to work. To teach her a lesson, her fairy Godmother creates a series of challenges
that ultimately trap Beauty in the estate of Beast. It is when Beast releases Beauty that she
realizes she loves him, and returns to Beast’s castle just in time to save him from death. “The
story that we came to tell of the ugliness that beauty hides where only love can break the spell
and show the person that’s inside.”
Katie Matthews and Dominic Gately.
Photo by Keith Pattison.
“Mike Kenny’s script takes both Beauty and her Beast on a voyage of self-realization. As ever with Kenny,
there is nothing twee. He makes his audiences think and feel and chuckle.” – The Stage, UK
6
Beauty and the Beast
Author: LePrince de Beaumont
Playwright: Charles Way
Originally produced by The Library Theatre, UK, in 2001
Synopsis: Cassandra is wild and loves freedom; her sister Belle is timid and afraid of
Robert Vernon and Bethan Walker.
the world. Their Father, George Godwin, loves them both. On the day of Cassandra’s
engagement, he learns that all but one of his ships has been sunk, and in a desperate attempt to protect it from looters
he rides from London across Dartmoor little knowing what fate holds in store. When his horse throws him, George is
offered sanctuary in a strange house; he is told he can take anything he wants but not to pick any of the roses. Glad to
be alive, but not realising the true nature of the master of the house, he disobeys. The moment he picks the rose a great
beast appears, half man half wolf. The terrified merchant promises to send one daughter to the house in return for his
life, and thus he returns to London. The deadly promise makes George a sick man, and it is Belle who goes to fulfil her
father’s promise and save his life. She is met at the gate by the housekeeper, who unbeknown to Belle, is a woman who
once loved the man inside the beast and in her rage at being scorned put on him a dreadful curse. This is a story of
overcoming fear and finding true love.
“The love story builds to a mesmerising scene of dance and musical rhythm where Belle and the Beast run
together through the forest with the wolves. By the time Belle’s kiss transforms the Beast, the children are
wide-eyed while adults are left panting for more.” - Manchester Metro, UK
The Beggar’s Strike
Author: Aminita Sow Fall
Playwright: Carlyle Browne
Music: Kysia Bostic
Synopsis: An Islamic West African community is caught between
the pressures of traditional and contemporary values. The
government wants to increase tourism as a source of revenue
and so decides to rid the city streets of the ragged beggars. But
Nguireane Sarr and ensemble. Photo by Rob Levine.
the beggars are essential to the spiritual life of the community,
and they know it. As the government plans to remove them, the beggars decide to strike. The farcical conclusion
includes an avalanche of mistaken identities, hilarious chaos and befuddled orders.
“The Beggars’ Strike…is that rarest of theater shows: a sweet, cheery farce whose sharp writing and sublime
humor don’t leave a venomous aftertaste.” –Minneapolis Star Tribune
7
The Biggest Little House in the Forest
Author: Djemma Bider
Playwright: Rosanna Staffa
18 pgs 7 characters
(original production had 1 actor playing all parts with puppets)
Synopsis: When Bernice the Butterfly finds an abandoned house
in the woods, she sets out to make it her home. Soon, she is
joined by Millie the mouse, Fred the frog, Richie the rabbit, and
Rudy the rooster. But when lovable Bartholomew the bear
knocks on the door, chilled to the bone in the pouring rain, he
Design by KNOCK, Inc.
finds there is no room. Forced to warm himself on the roof near
the chimney, the whole house collapses under his weight. Embarrassed, Bartholomew offers to build a new home for all
of them, and soon they learn that everyone is welcome and there's always enough room for a new friend.
*Available June 2010*
Boundless Grace
Author: Mary Hoffman
Playwright: Charles Oyamo Gordon
Music: Michael Keck
Synopsis: Grace, a young spirited girl, longs to see her father again,
who she dreams is an African prince. Out of the blue, Grace gets a
letter from her father, Tariq, with two roundtrip tickets to Gambia,
West Africa. Grace and her Nana go visit Tariq and his new family,
but things don’t go as well as Grace imagined. She is sad that her
father is not the prince she envisioned, and is disappointed that he
has started another family. In the end, Grace learns to love her family
in Africa, and learns that “family is what you make it.”
Briana Kennedy-Coker. Photo by Sal Skog.
“Boundless Grace emphasizes the idea that a family is what you make of it – that family’s love can be as
‘boundless’ as a river, mountain, ocean – or even Grace’s imagination.” – Minneapolis Star Tribune
8
The Boxcar Children
Author: Gertrude Chandler Warner
Playwright: Barbara Field
Synopsis: Generations of young readers have cherished the spirited
Depression-era adventures of The Boxcar Children. Now, in a worldpremiere adaptation, the Alden children’s story comes to life on stage.
Orphaned and in danger of being sent to different foster families, the
four siblings run away and make their home in an abandoned railroad
boxcar. Pursued by the authorities and a mysterious stranger, the children
discover the rewards and perils of life on the run, as well as the joy of
keeping their family together.
Jonathan Kuhn, Jennifer Sue Johnson, Alban Dennis, Alexis Chamow. Photo by Chris Bennion.
“Though the central story is the same, Field’s script amplifies the psychological and social dimensions of the
book considerably… With all the added material, The Boxcar Children has grown into an extended, more
instructive and informative tale.” –The Seattle Times
Boy with a Suitcase
Originally produced by SNAP Theatre, UK, in 2004
Synopsis: Naz’s homeland is an oppressive place. When his parents
send him to his brother’s safekeeping in London, the boy fancies
himself like Sinbad, a man of many voyages and endless stories. On
Illustration by Diana Chao.
his journey, Naz befriends Krysia, who helps him dodge soldiers and stay
safe. Indeed, armed with his stories and his new friend, Naz is able to make his way to his brother’s house. Despite the
fact that his new life is not the “heaven on earth” he expected, Naz realizes that happiness will always be with him as
long as he keeps his stories alive.
“[Boy with a Suitcase] throws a spotlight on the real dangers faced by children in other parts of the world...
Writer Mike Kenny has lifted this story with humor and spirit.” –Kilkenny Advertiser, UK
9
The Brementown Musicians
Author: Grimm Brothers
Playwright: Allison Gregory
Music: Hummie Mann
72 pgs., 3 female, 3 male
Illustration by John Fretz.
Synopsis: Billy, the goat, Slim, the pig, and cat Nell,
overhear when Farmer and his Wife decide that their donkey, Donny, is past his usefulness and his time is up. It’s up to
them to warn Donny of his fate. Poor Donny! And he’s such a dreamer, too. In fact, he has a dream of becoming a
famous musician one day. That’s it! He’ll leave the farm and follow that dream right to Brementown, the music Mecca.
As he starts his journey, he encounters Minnie, once a prize show dog, now no longer the pick of the litter. Minnie
decides to throw her lot in with Donny, and the pair sets off. It isn’t long before Nell catches up with them. Recognizing
the writing on the wall back at the farm, she decides to take her chances on Donny’s big idea, too. Of course, just
because it was Donny’s idea doesn’t mean the others don’t have their opinions, as well. Their cacophonous attempt to
make music jars the nerves.
As the animal friends bicker and squabble their way along, we see foul things afoot in Brementown. The newly selfappointed Mayor of the town, Fritz, and her brother, Karl the Crusher, have decided to banish music from Brementown
forever. Rusty, the operatic rooster, is flabbergasted. However will he be able to share his gift with the world? As Karl
the Crusher tries to, well, crush him, Rusty uses his wits, and witty word play, to flee the clutches of the sour-tempered
siblings. Soon Rusty stumbles upon the trio of furry friends. This is it! This is how Rusty can get help to stop Fritz and
Karl’s anti-music madness. He talks the friends into letting him join their band. Without mentioning the new regime in
Brementown, Rusty promises the animals that his connections will ensure them a chance in the spotlight. Since Donny,
Millie, and Nell have no idea what’s been happening in the once-bustling burg, they readily agree.
Once in Brementown, it becomes clear, very quickly, that something is not quite right. Where are all the people? Where
is all the music? Why is that songbird tied up with its beak glued shut?! They discover that Rusty has tricked them, but
the friends realize that only they can save music. With their individual talents pooled together, they are able to thwart
Fritz and Karl and bring sweet song back to Brementown.
*Available May 2010*
10
Bunnicula
Author: James Howe
Playwright: Jon Klein
Music: Chris Jeffries
Synopsis: It’s a dark and stormy night and Chester and Harold sit waiting for their
owners to return home from the movies. Chester, the Monroe family cat, and
Harold, the family’s dog, are more than just pets, they’re good friends too. When
the Monroe’s finally get home, they come bearing a surprise; they’ve found a bunny
in the movie theatre. This is no ordinary rabbit; this is the extraordinary Bunnicula.
When the family’s produce starts losing its juice, Chester thinks he knows what’s
causing the fantastic phenomenon. Bunnicula is a vampire! Or maybe Chester’s
imagination is getting the better of him. Singing and dancing their way through this
hilarious mystery, the furry friends find room in their hearts, and in their home, for
one very unique bunny.
“This semi-musical is a fanciful, non-scary Halloween treat for the kid inside all of us.” –Talkin’ Broadway
“Readers of all ages can rejoice in Seattle Children’s Theatre world premiere of Bunnicula, a clever, careful
stage rendering of Deborah and James Howe’s much-beloved classic.” –The Seattle Times
The royalty fee includes permission to make copies of the perusal script and piano/vocal score for your cast. Reference CD available
upon request.
11
Busytown
Author: Richard Scarry
Playwright: Kevin Kling
Music: Michael Koerner
44 pgs, 6 female, 22 male +ensemble
Doubling is possible (5 actors in the original production)
Synopsis: Busytown is always buzzing with activity. But
what do people do all day? That’s where Huckle Cat comes
in—he’ll take us on a tour of his great neighborhood. And
there is so much to see and do, so many wonderful friends
to visit. Huckle shows us how Farmer Pig and Grocer Cat
work together to bring food to the town. Construction
Worker and his crew build new houses, and Firechief and
the gang keep them safe. Isn’t it wonderful how everyone
works together to keep Busytown busy?
Matt Wolfe, Lisa Estridge, Khanh Doan and Allen Galli. Photo by Chris Bennion.
"There is much physical humor in "Busytown" and the production is charming. It is just good theatre."
-Tacoma Weekly
"This world premier radiates with simple, silly joy while bringing to life the impossible physics and
interspecies harmony of Richard Scarry's world." -Seattle Weekly
"Through vibrant singing and dancing, and amazing puppetry, Scarry's imaginative world is brought to life
and allows us to think about even the smallest of daily exchanges as interesting adventures. It promotes a
very simple message: Everyone in Busytown relies on one another, and every job has an important role."
-Queen Anne News
The royalty fee includes permission to make copies of the perusal script and score for your cast.
12
Canterville Ghost
Author: Oscar Wilde
Synopsis: Oscar Wilde’s classic tale told with whimsical humor and charm.
For three centuries, the Canterville Ghost has been perfectly happy rattling chains,
clanking armor, and generally haunting Canterville. Enter the Otis family – Yankee
upstarts with thoroughly modern ideas. Frightening these nonplussed American
tenants proves to be not only infuriating but almost impossible for the
temperamental British ghost. Yet, through the courageous friendship of one of the
young Otis children, the Canterville Ghost finally finds peace.
Joylane Berg, Adam Kolman Marsak, Dustin Weil. Photo by Giannetti Studios.
“High-spirited Americans take a good natured shot at the British stiff-upper-lip in…The Canterville Ghost.”
–Country Messenger, Stillwater MN
A Christmas Carol
Author: Charles Dickens
Playwright: Frederick Gaines
47 pgs. 10 female, 21 male (Doubling is possible)
Synopsis: Ebenezer Scrooge as you’ve never seen him before! No evil tyrant
here, our Ebenezer is a gentle, old man with a few unfortunate issues to deal
with. A great character study, this classic holiday treat has all your favorites
but is a reenergized hit.
Illustrated by Bethany Cynthia Knowles-Thompson.
13
Cinderella
Author: Charles Perrault
Synopsis: Explore the healing power of love in this timeless romance. Cinderella
must overcome grief and find a new life in rapidly changing times. With the
haunting melodies of Mozart weaving throughout, this beloved fairy tale will
have the audience mesmerized.
“This adaptation of Perrault’s timeless version of the world’s best loved fairytale is not to be missed. A
Christmas treat for all the family, whether one is five or 95.” -Morning Star, UK
Cinderella’s Sisters
58 pgs. 2 female
Originally produced by Catherine Wheels Theatre, UK in 200
Synopsis: The wicked stepsisters of Cinderella have been
misunderstood! Pam and Penny are daughters of the ultimate
stage mother. Though they love to dance, they are continually
pushed to a level of excellence that’s painful. After their father
runs off with a redhead, Pam and Penny’s mother marries a man
named Frank, who has a daughter of his own, Sophie (but you can call her Cinderella). Even though they dislike their
new stepsister, Sophie loves to watch Pam and Penny dance. Imagine their surprise and dismay when Sophie wins first
prize at the big dance contest. Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, this take on a familiar favorite is entirely captivating.
“The girls in Mike Kenny's Cinderella's Sisters are neither fat slags nor paragons of slim-line beauty. They are
a pair of lively young women trying to work out the mixed-up emotions of adolescence. Their admiration for
their stepsister comes across as spite, their love as aloofness and their passion as competitiveness. If their
actions appear to be ugly, it is not how they feel on their vulnerable inside.” – The Scotsman, UK
14
Cloud Pictures
Originally produced at Polka Theatre, UK, in 2004
Synopsis: Theo and Beeny are friends. Better than that - best friends. And they have been friends
for a long time. Although their houses and parents are different, they enjoy playing in each
other’s bedrooms and looking out of the big window where the clouds float by. Their favorite
game is Cloud Pictures, and they play it every day.
When Beeny moves away Theo is quite sad. He cannot find a friend as good as Beeny. After a
long time, Beeny comes back, though this time more than their houses and parents are different.
Theo and Beeny are different too. So different that they don’t see the same things in the clouds
anymore. But they find that they can still be friends, and find a new way to play their favorite game.
The Clown of God
Author: Tomie dePaola
Music: Steven Rydberg
Synopsis: Giovanni is an orphan who leaves his village of
Sorrento to join the Commedia dell’Arte, a travelling acting
troupe. At first he is only an errand boy, but as he matures
and perfects his craft, he becomes the star. He sets out on
his own, soon to become the finest juggler in Italy. For
Illustration by Tomie de Paola.
many years, he travels throughout the country gaining wealth
and fame. But time is cruel to the juggler and he can no longer perform the beautiful spectacles of his earlier days. He
returns to Sorrento, where he is inspired to give the most magnificent performance of his life. In the end, he is an old
man who finally finds peace when all that he had to offer, a simple gift of his art, is acknowledged as precious and is
valued above all else.
“Giovanni and his ‘family’ of Commedia players come alive as characters, relating to each other beyond
caricature.” –Minneapolis Star Tribune
The royalty fee includes permission to make copies of the perusal script and score for your cast.
15
The Devil and Daniel Webster
Author: Stephen Vincent Benet
Playwright: Robert Schenkkan
Doubling is possible, original performed with 9 actors
Synopsis: Every ghost story must find its own time and place, and
have its prey—someone who doesn’t quite understand the
mysteries all around him. For our needs, you couldn’t ask for a
more opportune setting than New Hampshire around 1829, or a
Alban Dennis, Peter Cook, and Sean G. Griffin. Photo by Chris Bennion.
nicer, harder-working man than Jabez Stone. All he wants in this world
is to save his farm, marry Abigail Stevens, and live a decent life. Sadly, Jabez is plagued with horrible luck, and Abigail’s
father will have nothing to do with him. It’s enough to make a man want to sell his soul to the Devil for a new beginning.
Careful what you wish for Jabez. After seven years of prosperity, it’s time to pay the Devil his due. He pleads with the
prestigious orator and lawyer, Senator Daniel Webster, to lend a hand. Webster isn’t one to shrink from a challenge—he
dares the Devil to take this case to a court of law. But there’s trials and then there’s trials. With the proceedings
weighted against him, and the jury stacked with notorious American villains like Lizzie Borden, John Wilkes Boothe, and
Al Capone, things look bleak for Webster’s case—but never underestimate the power of persuasion, and pragmatism, of
a New Hampshire man.
“The Devil and Daniel Webster is a fine companion to American history class, and riveting entertainment to
boot.” –The Seattle Times
Diary of an Action Man
Originally produced by Graeae, UK, in 2002
Synopsis: Diary of an Action Man follows Little Ezra who is on a mission
– a mission to rescue his dad. He told his mate, Spud, that Dad was
dead. That wasn’t exactly true, but how else can he explain why Dad
isn’t here? Ten-year-old Ezra believes his father died a war hero, but
dreams of his dad’s secret missions are suddenly shattered when he
discovers his father is alive and well and living in Manchester. Ezra’s toy
action man springs to life when no-one’s looking. Escaping the clutches of
his mum, his teacher and his incredibly irritating younger sister, Ezra and his secret comrade jump from helicopters and
swim with man-eating sharks before embarking upon their big adventure to find Ezra’s dad.
16
Don Quixote
Author: Miguel de Cervantes
Playwright: Amlin Gray
Synopsis: Don Quixote chronicles the antic adventures of the aging, idealistic wouldbe knight and his rotund, down-to-earth companion, Sancho Panza. Their chivalric
quest through La Mancha offers some valuable insights into society and human
behavior as well as moments of truth, beauty, and rollicking humor.
The Dutiful Daughter
Synopsis: Ke Xin is a princess brought up by Hashi, Lord of The Island of Joy. One day a stranger arrives at the harbour,
who claims to be her father. Is he mad or has Hashi not told the princess the truth about her background? Thrown into
confusion, Ke Xin runs away with her student friend and lover, Li Yi. The two men, who both claim to be her father, set
out in pursuit and find more than they bargained for.
“The story has power and stature and much engaging humour – a deft script with wide audience appeal.”
-The Stage, UK
17
East of the Sun and West of the Moon
Playwright: Tina Howe
Music: Mel Marvin
Synopsis: Taken from a Norwegian folk tale, this story of a young girl sent away by her meanspirited mother to live with the trolls will enchant you. The girl falls in love with a prince, who
is himself enchanted by a troll, and she follows him to the land east of the sun and west of
the moon to save him from a dismal fate.
Timothy M. Hughes and Katherine Ferrand. Photo by Sal Skog.
The Emperor’s New Clothes
Author: Hans Christian Andersen
Synopsis: Flo and Roscoe are the ultimate con artists, so when they stumble into a
kingdom that bends to every fashion whim of its Emperor they know just what to do.
They announce that they are the finest weavers in all the land, and produce a magical
cloth. Of course, the stylish Emperor simply must have it! However, the cloth that Flo
and Roscoe weave is not for ordinary folks; in fact, it’s endowed with magical powers
that separate wise men from fools. The clothing is invisible only to those not smart
enough to see it. None of the Emperor’s closest confidants want to be seen as a fool so
they all claim to see the clothing. When the Emperor finally unveils his magical new
dressing to the kingdom, the laughing townspeople REALLY have something to see.
This hilarious classic tale is one the whole family will love.
Illustration by Michelle Wright.
18
The Elves and the Shoemakers
24 pgs. 1 female, 1 male (+ puppets)
Audience Recommendation: 5 and under
Synopsis: People always need shoes. But it’s hard to make shoes when you’re cold and hungry and you’re down to your
last piece of leather. What will the shoemakers do? Help creeps into the shoemakers’ house in the dead of night, when
the elves come out to play.
“This wonderfully engaging piece tells the traditional tale of two kind elves who help a penniless shoemaker
and his wife out of their troubles. Mike Kenny’s play gently explores themes of generosity and greed in the
days leading up to Christmas.” –Kildare Nationalist, UK
Esperanza Rising
Author: Pam Munoz Ryan
Playwright: Lynne Alvarez
Synopsis: Esperanza’s father was a wealthy landowner in Mexico,
but when he was killed by bandits, her scheming uncle took over
their farm. Esperanza is sent across the border to California to
Melanie Rey and Erin Nicole Hampe. Photo by Rob Levine.
find a place with family there. Not used to the hard life of
migrant workers, Esperanza is desperately miserable. She eventually finds her footing, and even a skill at babysitting to
earn extra money. Though she is faced with setbacks, the young girl’s determination and blossoming spirit help her to
thrive in her new home.
“Lynne Alvarez’s adaptation of Pam Munoz Ryan’s award-winning book is compelling and colorful.”
–St. Paul Pioneer Press
19
Everyone Knows What a Dragon Looks Like
Author: Jay Williams
Playwright: Bret Fetzer
(original production done with 4 actors)
Synopsis: Long ago and far away, the orphan boy Han was all alone in
the world, all alone except for his pet pig, Ping. The only thing poor
Han wanted was a place to belong. His job, sweeping the gates of the
ancient Chinese city of Wu, wasn’t the kind of future he was looking
forward to. One day, a Monk arrived bearing news of the Wild Horsemen
on their way to attack Wu.
Sarah Harlett, Khanh Doan and Timothy Hyland. Photo by Chris Bennion.
This marauding tribe was bent on forcing the entire citizenry to eat beetles and worms. Disgusting! Faced with this
horror, the bumbling Mandarin, ruler of Wu, decreed that all should pray to the Great Cloud Dragon for help. When a
Hermit arrived, announcing that she was, in fact, the Dragon herself, she was met with disbelief and ridicule. Han felt for
the Hermit and invited her back to his ramshackle hut to weather the attack. Han’s, and Ping’s, generosity of spirit,
touched the Hermit’s heart. She decided to save the city from the Wild Horsemen and reveal her true Dragon form. And
then Han knew the future he wanted for himself—being a dragon.
“Seattle playwright Bret Fetzer succeeded in expanding Jay Williams’ fairy tale into an engaging script,
lacing it with liberal amounts of humor and beefing up the characters.” – Seattle Daily Herald
Eye of the Storm
Originally produced by SNAP Theatre, UK, in 1993
Synopsis: Eye of the Storm is a retelling of Shakespeare’s The Tempest, which tells the story from Miranda’s point of
view, as she struggles to grow up on a magic island controlled by her father, Prospero. When two other young people
arrive on the island, Trinculo (a young sailor) and Stephano (who is really Stephanie but has dressed as a boy and run
away from home), the underlying tensions and conflicts between daughter and father come to a highly charged, and
often hilarious, head.
“Teenagers all over the country have been enjoying this witty, perceptive and enormously entertaining
play…capturing the eternal struggle of youngsters to grow up and fly the nest.” -South Wales Argus
“The script has a perfectly easy relationship with its literary ancestor, is written in language which manages
to be both basic and poetic.” -The Irish Times
20
Fairytales About Love
Playwright: Saskia Janse
33 pgs. 6 Actors/Puppeteers
Originally produced by Speeltheater Holland in 1998
Synopsis: Somewhere in the Far North there lives a Princess. She has a heart of ice. In
order to melt her heart, True Love must be found. In the search for True Love, we
embark on a voyage around the world passing from one fairy tale to another. Does a
fairy tale about love always end with 'And they lived happily ever after?' What's the
story behind this True Love? Does it really exist, or does it only exist in fairy tales?
Photo from Speeltheatre Holland.
Fashion 47
Playwrights: Diane Paulus and Randy Weiner
Synopsis: 47 designers have already competed, and it's down to two.
This is the season’s final episode of Fashion 47, where week after week
designers compete to win top honors and national recognition for their
clothing lines. The grand prize is a solo victory fashion show to be held at
the hottest spot in town. So, the show begins with a video recap of
winners and losers excerpted from the season and setting the scene for the
final faceoff – the ultimate challenge!
Robert Verhoye and Traci M. Allen. Photo by Rob Levine.
Once the grand prize is awarded the drama is just beginning. One design team accuses the other of sabotage, and the
seams of a revenge plot take shape. It’s only a matter of time before the a fashion coup d'Ètat rocks the industry, and
has the audience on the edge of their seats.
“The show amplifies one of the cardinal yearnings of teenage rebels – to be original, not to be a clone.”
– Twin Cities Star Tribune
“Few other companies are trying to work out the balancing act that will engage mercurial teen audiences in
theater, so credit goes to CTC for a show that takes more than its share of creative risks.” – Pioneer Press
21
The Flood
Originally produced by Unicorn Theatre for Children, UK, in 1987
Synopsis: An ordinary middle class family faces another ordinary day, but it
turns out to be a day like no other. Rain has begun to fall and will not stop.
Martha has had a dream and believes the end of the world is near, but her
businessman husband, Gerald, thinks she is ill and needs to see a doctor. Their
two children watch as the rain falls and their parents argue. Gerald refuses to
believe Martha and goes to work while she blows their savings on a yellow boat. She orders the children to pack enough
clothes and food for a long journey. Gerald reaches the boat just in time as the world is washed away, except for one
yellow boat. Eventually, after much hardship, the family reach an island, and the children begin to rebuild their lives and
create a new culture. As the play ends, we are given a glimmer of hope as they see another ship on the horizon.
“Charles Way’s provocative play is magical, haunting, funny and tearful.” -The Guardian, UK
Frankenstein
Author: Mary Shelley
Playwright: Thomas Olson
Synopsis: Through a series of flashbacks, Victor Frankenstein recalls the birth of his incredible creation. His monster
searches for a companion and struggles to understand his place in the world.
22
The Gardener
40 pgs. 2 male
Originally produced by AJTC and Nottingham Roundabout, UK, in 2004
Synopsis: With a new baby sister in the house, Joe feels like no one wants to play with
him anymore. Nobody wants to play with old Uncle Harry either, so together they begin
to work on Uncle Harry’s garden. Even if Uncle Harry can’t remember ordinary things, he
and Joe create a year to remember.
Illustrated by Will Hayes.
Gentle Giant
Author: Michael Morpurgo
Originally produced by Royal Opera House, UK, in 2005
Synopsis: On an island lives a strange and forbidding giant – the nearby
villagers are wary of him, but is he the reason that fish can no longer be
caught in the silver lake? Can the magic dust of the Stardust Seller help?
One young girl discovers, quite accidentally, that the giant needs her help, and he, in turn, will help save the village. This
charming story has been specially created for young children, and the adults in their lives, to discover the joy of opera
and storytelling in theatre.
“As well as encouraging us to treat outsiders with understanding rather than suspicion, the tale also
conveys that, with a little insight, we can enable nature to heal itself.” -The Stage, UK
23
Glittra’s Mission
Author: Peter Pohl
Synopsis: Always thought that angels fluttered around in
the clouds, all rosy and smiling sweetly? Think again! An
angel has to work hard for its position among the stars up
high in the sky. Particularly guardian angel Nanna has to
work overtime, protecting Martin. This youngster loves
Great Danger and he believes that every key conceals its
own secret. Up until now, Nanna has succeeded in preventing
disasters. Up until now… because just as she’s taking a short break,
everything threatens to go very wrong.
Jason Collins and Megan Hill. Photo by Chris Bennion.
“[Saskia Janse with Speeltheater Holland] once again conjure an imaginative and intriguing world where
actors, puppets, music and scenery are mercurial, constantly transforming mood and character.”
-The Seattle Times
“The unique theatricality of Glittra offers its audience a key no one should resist, one that unlocks their own
imagination.” -Seattle Post-Intelligencer
24
Go, Dog. Go!
Author: P.D. Eastman
Playwrights: Allison Gregory and Steven Dietz
Synopsis: P.D. Eastman’s classic children’s book comes to life
on stage in an exploration of movement, color, and space. The
dogs delve into life with gusto, creating a visual spectacle for
the audience to feast upon. They snorkel. They howl at the moon.
They ride a Ferris Wheel. They sing and dance and climb trees. A fantastic
way for anyone, everyone, to spend the day.
Dean Holt, Marvette Knight, and Steven B. Young. Photo by Rob Levine.
Winner of the “2008 Best Children’s Theater Production” in St. Louis, MO,
by the River Front Times. Production by Metro Theater Company.
“With its gentle, bouncy humor and familiar situations, Go, Dog. Go! would make a fitting introduction to
theater for even the youngest children, and has enough sly wit to satisfy older children and parents.”
–The Columbus Dispatch
“This play is adapted from a book renowned for its ability to generate fun, learning, adventure, and surprise
with a minimum of text. It honors the joyous simplicity of the world around us. Therefore, in the making of this
play, it is not our intention to ‘fill out’ or ‘open up’ the story in the style of many traditional adaptations.
‘Expanding the book’ in this way would, we believe, rob it of its essential wondrous and loopy anarchy. Instead,
we hope to celebrate and explore the existing words and pictures; to look not "outside the book," but more
closely within it - in the way that a child can page through Mr. Eastman's book night after night and find
something remarkable and new with each subsequent reading. We have chosen, therefore, to play inside the
story – to explore the buckets of bliss, wonder, longing, and discovery that are waiting for us, for all of us,
there.” – Allison Gregory and Steven Dietz
The royalty fee includes permission to make copies of the perusal script for your cast. Go, Dog. Go! requires separate underlying
rights from the Random House Children’s Books.
25
The Golden Goose
76 pgs. 4 female, 4 male (13 characters doubled)
Originally produced by The Library Theatre, UK, in 2006
Run Time: 2 hours
Synopsis: Once upon a time there was a boy called Dummling and everyone
believed he was stupid just because of his name. One day, he met an old man
in the woods and shared his humble supper with him. The man was, in fact,
William Finkenrath and Paul Stocker.
King of the Fairies, who was in search of a human king to save the forest. The
Fairy King gives Dummling a magical golden goose to help him win the crown someday. When Dummling gets home his
mother and brother try to take it from him, but once they touch the goose they find they cannot let go, and what’s more
they find that they cannot stop running! Run they must, and run they do all the way to the palace. There, King Conrad
has two daughters, Dajona who won’t laugh and Birgit who won’t stop. The King has sent out a proclamation that
whoever makes Dajona laugh can have her hand in marriage, and thus be in line for the throne. When she sees the
Golden Goose, with its entourage of running peasants, she bursts out laughing. The King is thrilled, until he discovers
that Dummling is a peasant. So, the King sends Dummling on two ridiculous quests. With the help of the fairy kingdom,
Dummling succeeds and thus becomes King, saving the Fairy Kingdom from destruction.
“A colourfully embroided mixture of Folklore and fantasy.” -The Independent
26
Goldilocks and the Three Bears, and Little Red Riding Hood
Playwright: John Clark Donahue
Audience recommendation: All Ages
Synopsis: Kevin and Amy discover the narrator’s trunk and they can’t help but open it. The narrator catches them and
tells them the story of Goldilocks, a curious child just like them. Three bears—Papa Bear, Mama Bear, and Baby Bear—
enjoy a relaxing life in their house in the woods. Papa Bear is the biggest, Baby Bear is the smallest, and Mama Bear is in
between. One morning, the family goes for a walk so their porridge can cool and little Goldilocks stumbles across their
cottage. She tries their porridge, their chairs, and finally their beds. When the three bears return from their walk they
discover that their porridge has been eaten, that their chairs have been broken, and Baby Bear discovers Goldilocks
sleeping in his bed. Goldilocks awakes and, seeing the bears, runs away. The bears would not have been mad if she just
would have asked first.
Kevin and Amy like this so story much, the narrator proceeds to tell them another tale. Once there was a little girl whose
mother made her a red cloak with a hood to wear. She loved this cloak dearly, so her mother called her “Little Red
Riding Hood.” Little Red Riding Hood’s grandmother was sick, so her mother sent Little Red Riding Hood with a basket of
food to take to Grandmother’s house. Along the way, Little Red Riding Hood ran into the Wolf, who convinced her to go
a different way to get to the house. Meanwhile, the Wolf snuck to Grandmother’s house himself, locked Grandmother
in a trunk, took her clothes and crawled into her bed. When Little Red Riding Hood arrived, the Wolf leapt from the bed
and tried to catch her. But Little Red Riding Hood was too quick, and managed to hide in the closet. Just then, the
Woodsman arrived at Grandmother’s house and with the help of Little Red Riding Hood and Grandmother, they capture
the wolf. At the end of this story, the children are so entranced they decide to go with the narrator to help him share his
stories with other children.
“[Goldilocks and the Three Bears, and Little Red Riding Hood] is, in sum, a gentle, imaginative little show,
filled with activities that a child would recognize and also with an engaging theater magic.”
27
Goldilocks and the Two Bears
20 pgs. 1 actor/puppeteer
Audience recommendation: 4+
Synopsis: Dora’s hair is flaming red, so red her father calls her Goldilocks.
Today Goldilocks is having a bad day. In school they tease her and her
father isn’t around to help anymore. Dora decides things will be better in
the woods. She comes to the house of the three Bears, (a Mother, a
Father, and a Little Bear). She meddles with the bears' belongings,
From Speeltheatre Holland.
sampling their porridge (eating all of the baby's), sitting on their chairs
(breaking the baby's), and then trying out their beds (falling asleep in the baby's).
When they come home, Goldilocks finds out that Father Bear is gone, just like her father. Together with Baby Bear, she
sets off to bring the little Bear’s father home.
Grandad’s Big Adventure
Originally produced by Chichester Royal Festival Theatre, UK, in 2002
Synopsis: Christmas is no time to have an operation. But that is
exactly when Tracy must have hers. Not only is she afraid to go under
the anesthetic, she’s also worried she’ll miss Christmas altogether.
Fortunately, she has her Grandad to keep her company. When they
meet a strange lady who claims to be the wife of Father Christmas,
who has refused to do Christmas this year, the adventure begins.
28
Hamlet
Playwright: William Shakespeare
Adapter: Rita Giomi
89 pgs. 3 male, 2 female
Run Time: 2 hours
Synopsis:
“…I could a tale unfold whose lightest word
Would harrow up thy soul, freeze thy young blood…”
– The Ghost, Hamlet I.v
Peter Crook, Amy Thone, Darragh Kennan, Connor Toms and Renata Friedman. Photo by Chris Bennion.
Young Prince Hamlet returns to Denmark as strange and sorrowful
times befall the country—his father, the King, suffered a murder most foul. The Prince is sure that blame lies with
Claudius, lately his uncle and now his King and husband to his mother. This betrayal is more than the Prince can bear.
Soon he is out of his wits, spouting “wild and whirling words” denouncing his love for the sweet Ophelia. Or is this
madness merely a ruse to “catch the conscience of the king” so Hamlet may enact his revenge? Sensing the danger his
nephew presents, Claudius conspires to slay Hamlet. And amidst the clashing of swords and passing of poisoned goblets,
all the players fall prey to the treachery that stains the soil of poor Denmark.
“Giomi’s directing credits include a lot of Shakespeare, and …her editing is conscientious and shows off her
extensive expertise….An abridgement gives the play shape and pulls its diverse themes into a manageable
bundle.” –Seattle Weekly
“What is gained is a likeable, human-scale son of Denmark, a sort of ‘starter Hamlet’ aimed directly at
adolescents – but not pandering to them with pop-culture shtick.” – The Seattle Times
29
Hansel & Gretel
Authors: Grimm Brothers
Playwright: Rosanna Staffa
Music: Ruth MacKenzie
Synopsis: Hansel and Gretel may live with loving,
caring parents but there is no food and the children
are starving. They can’t even afford to burn their
wood for warmth; no it must be saved and sold in
hopes of buying food. Watching her children being
raked by hunger is devastating Mother. She begs
Father to take them away, with the last piece of
bread in the house their only hope. Seeing this as a
Nathan Barlow, Leah Curney and Carolyn Goelzer. Photo by Rob Levine.
great game to distract them, they sing and dance and leave
a trail of crumbs through the forest. Of course, the birds devour the crumbs and the children have no way of finding
their way home. Sent by a bird to a glorious house made of every delicious thing, they dive in, eating everything they can
get their hands on. This is just what the Witch was hoping for—now the delectable children are trapped! The children
have a few tricks of their own, however, and eventually use the Witch’s gluttony to break free. Full of song, dance,
laughter, and just a pinch of good-natured scariness, this fairy tale classic is sure to satisfy the entire family.
“There is so much in [Hansel & Gretel] that is breathtaking and magical that it deserves the widest possible
audience.” –Pulse of the Twin Cities
30
Hansel & Gretel
Authors: Grimm Brothers
Originally produced by Oxford Touring Company, UK, in 2008
Synopsis: It is dinner time and once again, and as usual, the
children push around the food on their plate, complain, and act
rudely. So, tonight instead of dinner, Mother tells the story of
Hansel and Gretel. As the story of two hungry children abandoned
in the forest by their parents and their capture by a wicked witch
evolves, the family embraces their roles and find a
Happily-Ever-After ending.
“The sparkling re-telling of the familiar tale of breadcrumbs and wicked witches still retains an occasional
chilling moment but provides great family entertainment with a few surprises and a fair helping of seasonal
fun.” –North Wales Chronicle, UK
“Kenny makes a fascinating parallel between the resources needed by a story’s characters and the storytelling imagination of the family members.” –Reviews Gate, UK
Harold and the Purple Crayon
Author: Crockett Johnson
Playwright: Myron Johnson
Synopsis: A favorite in the world of picture books gets even more exciting when it comes
to life on stage! Meet the villain, Mr. Smudge, with his rainbow of crayons that aren’t
purple, and watch as Harold goes to the circus, swims in the sea, and gets to be on
television, all through the magic of his crayon and the wonders of theatre!
Illustrated by Crockett Johnson © 1955
31
Harriet’s Halloween Candy
Author: Nancy Carlson
Playwright: Ann Schulman
Composer: Chad Henry
Synopsis: Harriet loves Halloween. She loves dressing up; she
loves hanging out with her friends; and she loves getting all that
delicious, gooey, chewy, chocolaty sweet candy. What she does
Caety Sagoian, Auston James, Liz McCarthy, Jason Collins, and Nicole Boote. Photo by Chris Bennion.
not love is having to share with her baby brother, Walter, even when
her parents make her. Once back from her trick-or-treating, the very important sorting process begins. In theory, this is
when Harriet will decide which of her treasures she will bestow on her brother. Licorice whips? Nougat bars?
Marshmallow puffs? Tangy tarts? Chocolate drops? No!! They’re all too good to share. And they’re all hers. To keep her
stash safe, Harriet tries hiding it, but what will she do when she has to go to school? Why, take it with her, of course.
When her friends find out she’s been hoarding all the goodies for herself, they turn their backs on her selfish ways. Her
obsession has landed her in a sticky mess. But with the help of her mother, Harriet proves that she knows nothing is
sweeter than a true friend.
“With Halloween ranking up with Christmas as kids’ favorite holiday, young theater-goers will no doubt
relate to Harriet’s pursuit of all that is sugar, while parents will appreciate that Harriet eventually learns
friends trump even chocolate.” – The Seattle Times
The Hoboken Chicken Emergency
Author: Daniel Manus Pinkwater
Playwright: Chad Henry
Music: Chad Henry
Synopsis: When young Arthur is sent out on Thanksgiving to find a
chicken for his family dinner, he discovers Professor Mazzocchi and
Mara Hesed, Jon Gentry, Erica Berghan, Felicia Vonshell Loud, and Hugh Hastings. Photo by Chris Bennion.
Henrietta, a two hundred-sixty pound chicken with personality! Arthur
and Henrietta bond immediately. When Arthur is forced by his father to return Henrietta, the chicken goes bezerk,
terrorizing the town of Hoboken. Although an expert is brought in to take down the chicken, the town is saved only by
learning to have love and compassion, even for extraordinary chickens.
“[Chad] Henry’s songs are witty evocation of Broadway styles that were popular 60 years ago. ‘Hoboken’
brings to mind Irving Berlin like ‘Annie Get Your Gun’ and ‘Call Me Madam.” –Seattle Post-Intelligencer
32
Honus and Me
Author: Dan Gutman
Playwright: Steven Dietz
Synopsis: Joe Stoshack loves baseball. It’s unfortunate that he is so bad at it. But he
still loves the game, and he loves collecting the cards. To Joe they’re almost magic.
When his mother makes him clean his neighbor’s attic, he never expects to find the
card of all baseball cards—the T-206 Honus Wagner—the most valuable card of all
time. But there is more to this card than what money can buy; with this card Joe is
able to summon Honus Wagner himself, straight from 1909. Amazingly, Honus thinks
Joe has potential at his favorite pastime. But it isn’t until they both go back to 1909,
and the seventh game of the World Series, that Joe finds out just how good he can be.
The confidence and self-esteem Honus helps Joe discover in himself is a gift that
withstands the test of time.
David Drummond and Gabriel Baron. Photo by Chris Bennion.
“Based on Dan Gutman’s book, Honus and Me, adapted by Steven Dietz, is a wonderful look at the positive
effect of mentors and support by parents.” –Tacoma Weekly
“You don’t have to be a baseball fan to appreciate Honus & Me, a charming show about a Little Leaguer
with big dreams.” –Seattle Post-Intelligencer
“[Honus and Me] is a seamless blend of history, time travel, family tensions, economic problems, career
disappointments, moral dilemmas and the power of love and dreams.” –Chicago Sun Times
33
The Hound of Baskervilles
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Doubling is possible
Synopsis: Investigator Sherlock Holmes is on another case; a mystery involving a
family curse. It is said that all future male heirs to Baskerville Hall will die a
violent death upon the moors. And for several generations, the male heirs have
been perishing from a vicious canine. It’s no surprise that the new heir to
Baskerville Hall, Sir Henry Baskerville, wants answers to this prophesy. With the
clever investigating of Holmes, the witty questions of his faithful pal, Dr. Watson,
and a handful of suspicious characters, the conclusion of this mystery ends with an unexpected twist.
Lawrence Santoro.
“The agile, clear adaptation by Frederick Gaines is a version that loses little of Arthur Conan Doyle’s
mystery, yet manages to turn what is anachronistic today into stylish wit and full-bodied humor.”
–Minneapolis Tribune
Huck Finn
Author: Mark Twain
Playwright: Greg Banks
Doubling is possible. Original production done with 3 actors.
Synopsis: Huck and his pal Tom Sawyer just can’t stop
getting into mischief. And when it turns out to be
profitable, Huck’s Pa wants in on the action. So much so
that he locks Huck in a shed. Managing to escape the
makeshift prison, Huck decides he would be better off
Dean Holt and Terry Hampleton. Photo by Rob Levine.
floating down the river away from home. Along the way,
he comes across Jim, a slave escaped from Huck’s aunt’s place. Opening Huck’s mind to the reality of slavery, the
journey downriver with Jim is a real education for Huck. Full of adventure, good old-fashioned fun, and some vital life
lessons, this American classic is a treat to share with your family.
“Greg Banks’ innovative interpretation of this American tale creates a muscular and exciting theater
experience.” – Insight : Journal for Community News, Business & the Arts
34
The Hundred Dresses
Author: Eleanor Estes
Playwright: Mary Hall Surface
Synopsis: Wanda Petronski just wants to join the fun of
having friends, like everyone else. But in 1930s small
town America, a Polish immigrant doesn’t easily fit in.
When Maddie’s best friend, Peggy, starts to tease
Wanda, Maddie knows this isn’t right. When the teasing
doesn’t stop and the Petronskis move to get away from
the town’s prejudices, Maddie is wracked with guilt. She
Sarah Harlett, Emily Cedergreen, Troy Fischnaller, Tim Gouran and Betsy Schwartz.. Photo by Chris Bennion.
soon realizes that allowing her friend to be a bully can be just as
bad as acting that way herself. Determined not to let her fear get the
best of her again, Maddie braves the scorn of her classmates and stands
up to them, making an unlikely friend in the bargain.
“Everyone has been in Maddie’s situation. Everyone has faced peer pressure. These characters tell us that
we, like them, can make the right choice next time.” –Teen Tix, Seattle
“What sets the play…apart is its quiet, unexaggerated depiction of xenophobia, and how poverty comes in
different sizes and shades.” –The Seattle Times
35
If You Give A Mouse A Cookie
Author: Laura Joffe Numeroff
Playwright: Jody Davidson
43 pgs. 2 male, 1 either (mouse can be played by either gender)
Synopsis: “It all began so simply…” the Boy remembers, “Mom had gone to aunt Rose’s house to
bring her over a batch of oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.” They’re the best cookies in the world,
and she left some for him. He’s also got a new comic book, JUNGLEMAN, BEASTMASTER OF THE
AMAZON, so he heads for the backyard. Then the Mouse shows up, hungry – talkative – and not
to be ignored. The Boy gives Mouse a cookie, milk, and a straw to drink it with. After trying to tidy
up, Mouse needs a napkin and a mirror, which leads to a haircut. What a mess! The boy begins to
feel like he’s on a roller coaster ride, still on the way up. There’s no stopping this Mouse! Not only
can he talk, cut his own hair and use a handkerchief, he can dance with his own reflection. And
he’s only getting started.
Dean Holt. Photo by Rob Levine.
“For children, Mouse is a time for the free, joyful sort of chaos grown-ups frown on in real life. For grownups, it’s a freeing invitation to feel younger – even if just for a little while.” -Orlando Sentinel
“The adaptation is original and infused with a dynamic, witty sense of the uniquely theatrical.”
-The Off Off Broadway Review
“Trying to single out a favorite moment in If You Give A Mouse A Cookie is kind of like trying to pick out the
cutest puppy in the basket.” - St. Paul Pioneer Press
“The show takes you on a journey of messy, side-splitting hilarity.” -Minneapolis Star Tribune
The royalty fee includes permission to make copies of the perusal script for your cast. If You Give a Mouse a Cookie requires separate
underlying rights from HarperCollins Children’s Books.
36
Iqbal
Author: Francesco D’Adamo, translated by Ann Leonori
Playwright: Jerome Hairston
Synopsis: Inspired by the life of child-activist Iqbal Masih, this play celebrates the struggle
and triumph of child workers in a Pakistani carpet factory. Under the harsh labor and stern
eye of the factory master, Fatima and the other children discover ways to laugh and share
moments of tenderness, but they have forgotten how to dream. So when a new boy joins
their ranks and dares to rebel, he inspires them to help each other reach for a better life.
J. Aritt, P. Shukla, S. Bijwadia, J. Jue, and A. Rivera.
Photo by Dan Norman.
“Playwright Jerome Hairston tells the story with poetic potency. Over the course of the play, his language
evolves to parallel the children’s conditions, from stiff and stilted to free-associative fluidity and lyric
metaphors.” -Minneapolis Star Tribune
“I’m always thrilled by the amazing intelligence of children. Iqbal’s spirit and wit, his passion and fire charge
us. With this play, we hope to give that same gift to our audience.”
-Peter Brosius, Artistic Director, The Children’s Theatre Company
Iron Ring
Author: Lloyd Alexander
Synopsis: The Iron Ring is a thrilling Indian epic of daring adventure and
deep humanity. Take an incredible journey with King Tamar and his
sidekicks – a brave and beautiful milkmaid, a cowardly eagle, and a wily
monkey – as they try to win back his kingdom. Rooted in the mythology of
ancient India, the story follows the travels of young Tamar, who loses a
game of chance with a mysterious stranger and finds himself on a voyage
full of comedy, challenge, and adventure.
Design by KNOCK, Inc.
"The imaginative scope of the story and its philosophical complexities will make this an exciting journey."
–Publishers Weekly
*Available April 2010*
37
Jack
Originally produced by Tutti Frutti, UK, in 2006
Synopsis: This version of Jack and the Beanstalk is a wonderfully creative
work that follows the classic storyline, but adds a contemporary twist. Our
story begins with Jack in a pot waiting to become the Giant’s dinner. As Jack
recounts how he got himself into this predicament, he talks his way out of
the soup and into Gertrude’s, the Giant’s wife, heart. She confides her
feelings of neglect, while Jack describes the disappointment he has caused
his mother. It is this relationship that helps both Jack and Gertrude find
their way to happier lives. This fun, and funny, work will engross audiences,
making them laugh and leaving them begging for more.
Jack and the Beanstalk
Music: Chad Henry
Synopsis: A dreadful giant terrorizes the ancient Irish countryside. When
the lazy, boastful Jack learns that his late father may have been a king, he
is determined to climb the beanstalk and rescue his family’s stolen
treasure. Aided by Eileen O’Fenian, a bungling fairy trying to earn her
Laura Kenny. Photo by Chris Bennion.
wings, Jack has a hair-raising adventure in the giant’s castle which is filled
with fantastical characters: a temperamental giant; his ogre-ish wife; her henchmen Oogedy, Boogedy, and Boo—as well
as the singing harp and a dancing, golden egg-laying hen. Finally, Jack returns home to be crowned king, and Eileen
earns her wings. With a rollicking, Riverdance-like score, this show is a delight for all ages.
38
Jason and the Golden Fleece
Author: Apollonius of Rhodes
Playwright: John Olive
Doubling is possible. Original played by a company of 5 actors.
Synopsis: Treachery, betrayal, and vengeance—these are the
hallmarks of Jason’s tale. When he was but a baby, his own
uncle murdered his parents. Jason returns to Thessaly to avenge
their deaths and reclaim the throne. Despite his youth and
inexperience, Jason makes a bargain with his uncle—he will sail
Shawn Telford, Lathrop Walker, Peter Crook and Renata Friedman. Photo by Chris Bennion.
in search of the famed golden fleece in return for the crown. With
his young crew, the untried Hercules and budding poet Orpheus, as ready as they will ever be, the sailors begin their
voyage. This is the chance to become the heroes of legend, if only they knew what that meant or how to go about it.
Their quest takes the three naïve warriors to lands cursed and deceptively sweet, where they must fight ferocious
supernatural creatures. But when they finally make their destination, the land of the golden fleece, Jason finds his
strength and captures his treasure. Once back home, Jason honors his bargain and hands over the prize. His uncle tries
to betray him again, so Jason has no choice but to enter into a pitched battle of clashing swords. Realizing that he has
become a hero after all, Jason vanquishes his uncle and is crowned king. In a noble gesture, Jason has the golden fleece
destroyed, determined to rule his people by his own even hand.
“[Jason and the Golden Fleece] is upbeat and suitable for those age 10 and above, with some straight-ahead
messages about staying the course, believing in yourself and the power of stories.” –The Seattle Times
The Jungle Book
Author: Rudyard Kipling
Synopsis: The Jungle Book transports audiences to mystical India with the tale of the
young “man-cub,” Mowgli, a boy raised by animals. Befriended by some and pursued
by others, Mowgli is eventually forced to choose between the animal kingdom and the
more “civilized” human world. Presented as a play-within-a-play, The Jungle Book
uses masks, dance, and mime to create this amazing and wonderful adventure.
Siua Hafoka
39
Kidnapped in London
Synopsis: Corin is the son of two shepherds in sixteenth-century England. While visiting London with his parents, Corin
watches The Players of Blackfriars perform. He is so distracted by the play, he gets separated from his parents. Not sure
of what to do, Corin sits down and starts to sing. Burbage, the leader of The Players of Blackfriars, sees the boy’s natural
theatrical talent and asks if he would like to join the players. Corin declines – he just wants to find his parents, but
Burbage insists and kidnaps the boy. While with the players, Corin meets Joseph, another young boy actor, who tells
Corin that he should appreciate Burbage. However, Corin longs to go home. Burbage promises that if Corin performs
for a while he will be set free.
Time passes and Corin is still held captive. Driven to desperation, he plots to run away. Joseph agrees to help Corin
escape by distracting Burbage. During the attempt, Burbage stabs and wounds Joseph and is sent to jail. The boys visit
him, and Burbage tells Corin that he is finally free to leave. After all this time and these adventures, Corin decides that
the theatre is his home and chooses to stay.
“Timothy Mason’s ‘Kidnapped in London’ harkens back to the Elizabethan England when London’s streets
were teeming with their own colorful theater, creating a sense of life that has been irresistible to us ever
since.” Minneapolis Star Tribune
King Arthur and the Magic Sword
Synopsis: Set in 5th Century Britain, the Roman Empire is in disarray, and throughout Britain
warlords continually battle for the right to be called Pendragon, chief ruler of the land. Raised
by Merlin the Magician and destined for greatness, Arthur is the only one who can wield the
powerful sword, Excalibur, and unite and lead his nation to victory.
Jason McLean and Tim Barker.
“King Arthur and the Magic Sword speaks to the special child (and there are many): the adolescent who sees
grave wrongs in the ways of the world and vows to right them; the shining young spirit untarnished by adult
(or peer) cupidity and power struggles, who believes that the strength and sincerity of his mission to banish
injustices will cleave a path to human equality and harmony.” –Twin Cities Reader
40
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Author: Washington Irving
Synopsis: Ichabod Crane, a bumbling eccentric schoolmaster, moves to a town haunted
by a headless horseman. A Puritan who constantly quotes Cotton Mather, Ichabod
insists he does not believe is such supernatural things. When a dark figure on horseback
follows him home one night, Ichabod screams in terror, and shows that he is as
superstitious as everyone else. The next morning, all that remains of Ichabod Crane is
his small, tricorner hat and the sound of his voice.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow & Rip Van Winkle
Playwright: Bruce Hurlbut
Synopsis: After his twenty-year nap, Rip Van Winkle awakes with his story-telling
capacity intact and begins the tale of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman. Full of
action and excitement, this play brings to life the rich language of the American past.
Ron Menzel. Photo by Fred Andrews.
41
The Little Match Girl
Playwright: John Donahue
Synopsis: Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of a poor little girl who is
trying to sell matches on the coldest day of the year. Ill clad and
shivering, she’s afraid to return home empty-handed for fear she’ll be
beaten. The holiday merry-makers are too engrossed in their own
worlds to pay attention to the ragged child as she slowly freezes to
death. In an attempt to get warm, the girl lights her matches. With each
one she makes a wish and sees visions of worlds known to her only
from her dead grandmother’s stories: a street carnival, a toy shop, a
holiday feast, a skating party, a grand ball, and a warm green meadow.
In her final moments, she gets a vision of her grandmother, who takes her away to heaven.
“The beauty and lyricism of this show…remains spiritually compelling and more than a little awesome.”
–St. Paul Pioneer Press and Dispatch
The Little Mermaid
Originally produced by York Theatre Royal, UK, in 2005
Synopsis: Far below the crashing waves of the ocean’s surface, and into its deepest
depths, we meet a young mermaid on a quest to find love. Enthralled by the unknown
world above the sea’s shell, the Little Mermaid finds herself falling in love with a
mysterious human. After a vicious storm throws him from his ship, she manages to
save him, sealing her fate—she cannot live without this man. She decides to take
matters into her own hands and make a deal with the evil sea witch. The Mermaid will
be granted legs in exchange for her lovely voice. If only she can make the man truly
love her, a love that goes beyond the surface, then she can know real happiness.
Illustrated by Will Hayes
“Celebrated children’s writer Mike Kenny makes Hans Christian Andersen’s fable his own, adding plenty of
magical touches to delight young theatre-goers.” – The Stage, UK
42
Little Women
Author: Louisa May Alcott
125 pgs. 10 female, 3 males
Run time: 2 hours
Synopsis: Living in New England during the American Civil War, the
March girls—pretty Meg, practical Jo, shy Beth, and vain little Amy—
eagerly await their father’s return from battle. Jo, an avid writer, aspires
to be a famous author and live an independent life someday. Meg looks
towards a more traditional future as a wife with children. Sweet Beth is
content to stay at home and play the piano. Amy wants the attention of her
elder sisters and is quite mischievous when she is not included. All four girls
are very different, yet they remain a close-knit family.
Charity Jones, Nancy Wagner, Hilary Cooperman, and Jolayne Berg.
“[Chamberlain’s Little Women] is a character melodrama, a play about good people discovering themselves,
enduring hardships and even death, yet always strengthened by the security of family.” –St. Paul Pioneer Press
The Lost Boys of Sudan
Playwright: Lonnie Carter
Synopsis: A.I. Josh, T-Mac Sam, and K-Gar Ollie all meet in the
worst way: fleeing the horrors of war. As they team up on a
perilous journey to a refugee camp, they exchange heroic survival
stories, song, and even laughter. Thus begins an extraordinary
passage that eventually takes three boys of the Dinka tribe to, of
Namir Smallwood, Andre Samples, and Samuel Roberson Jr. Photo by Rob Levine.
all places, Fargo, ND. Where encountering drought, crocodiles, and
guerrillas is replaced with malls, video games, and Skittles. If you can't imagine being a continent, a culture, and a
language away from home, join three boys who couldn't either – at first.
“Carter’s play builds layer upon layer of meaning through evocative language, humor and telling details
that create a world that is simultaneously dreamlike and concrete.” – Minneapolis Star Tribune
43
The Lost Child
17 pgs. 12 characters, doubling possible
Originally produced by Crucible Studio, UK, in 1989
Synopsis: Fire keeps Tinker and his daughter, Rowan, safe from wolves. But as Tinker tells
Rowan, “The fire is greedy. If we do not watch over it carefully, or if we feed it too much,
the fire will become hungry for more. It will eat and eat and eat and grow into a monster
which will eat everything in its path.” When Rowan goes missing, Tinker declares that Fire
is no longer his friend. After searching the air, water, and earth, Tinker finally relents and lights a fire. It is then he
discovers Rowan is with the wolves. After he gives a special promise to them, he is finally reunited with his daughter.
Mad Meg: An Opera
Music: Sam Paechter
Originally produced by Interplay, UK, in 1997
Synopsis: Mad Meg is a charming, poetic piece about two sisters:
Martha, who was as warm as the sun, and Meg who was as moody as
Illustrated by Diana Chao.
the moon. When Simon shows up at their farm, Meg is immediately taken
with the stranger. Simon, however, falls in love with Martha. This enrages Meg, who curses the town and stops the river.
“The villagers now locked their doors, afraid of Mad Meg on the Moor.
To their children they sometimes said, Mad Meg’ll get you if you don’t go to bed.
They’d point at the moon up in the sky, look there’s Mad Meg’s eye.
Mad Meg made the river dry.”
44
Madeline and the Gypsies
Author: Ludwig Bemelmans
Playwright: Barry Kornhauser
Age Recommendation: All Ages
Synopsis: When Madeline and her friend, Pepito, get lost during a visit to the carnival and
end up being carried away by gypsies, their rousing adventures with a traveling circus
begin! But poor Miss Clavel won’t rest until she has brought them safely home. This new
musical bursts with daring circus acts, song and sweet silliness.
Francesca Dawis. Photo by Rob Levine.
"Eye-popping , world-premiere musical adaptation. ...The integration of circus
onto the CTC stage is a little stroke of magic, making it very clear why the spunky
Madeline and her friend Pepito would feel the tug of the canvas and greasepaint. ...If you love the books,
love the circus or love seeing CTC work its magic, Madeline and the Gypsies hits the right marks."
- St Paul Pioneer Press
"Madeline captures all the magic of Ludwig Bemelmans' beloved 1959 book and fleshes out the characters
and dramatic arc in a charming and convincing way. My daughter...was entranced by the sets, the
costumes, the singing, the dancing, the slapstick comedy - basically all of it." - Minnesota Parent Magazine
"Childrens Theatre Company goes for the magic...with Madeline and the Gypsies - full of surprises, nice
moments about the search for family and home, and real circus thrills throughout. ...The play's message that both the world of order and creative chaos have much to offer each other - is played out gently and
never gets in the way of the fun. There's plenty of the latter, and the balance is delightful to watch. ...A
joyful escape for audiences of any age." - Talkin' Broadway
45
The Magic City
Author: E. Nesbit
Playwright: Joe Sutton
Age Recommendation: 8+
Synopsis: Philip and his sister, Helen, have been on their own
since their parents died. But now Helen has married and she and
Philip are going to live in her new husband Peter’s house, with his
daughter, Lucy. Once Helen and Peter leave for their honeymoon,
Peter A. Jacobs, Reginald Andre Jackson and Jason Collins. Photo by Chris Bennion.
the children are left alone with the nurse, who dislikes Philip and
forbids him to play with any of Lucy’s toys. Having a kind heart, Lucy invites Philip to play with her toys when the nurse
is out, and with them he builds a fantastic city. Once the nurse returns, she sees the city and sends Philip to his room,
where he falls asleep and lands in the amazing city he built for Lucy. Philip soon discovers that the people in the city are
living under an evil rule and have been waiting for Philip to rescue them. With Lucy’s help, Philip manages to slay a
dragon, unravel a mysterious rug, and save the Island Dwellers from their own fear. When Philip finally awakes he is in
his room with his new family, and feels that his life in this world will now be better than he could have imagined.
The Marvelous Land of Oz
Author: L. Frank Baum
Music: Richard A. Dworsky
Synopsis: Tip is a lonely boy who is forced to live with Mombi, an evil witch. After Mombi obtains some Powder of Life
from the sorcerer, Tip takes it and uses it to create two friends: Jack Pumpkinhead and Sawhorse. The three friends
decide to run away from Mombi. On their journey, they run into General Jinjur and her army, who are planning on
taking over Emerald City. Jack and Sawhorse head to the Emerald City and meet the Scarecrow king and Jellia, his
assistant, and they all become friends. Meanwhile, Tip heads to the Emerald City as well and warns the Scarecrow about
Jinjur’s army, and heads off with his friends to find Glinda. Glinda tells them that the throne does not belong to
Scarecrow, but to Princess Ozma, daughter of the late King Pastoria. Mombi tries to trick Glinda and fails. Glinda forces
Mombi to tell them who Princess Ozma is—Tip!
“The Oz books are still such favorites. They tend to be nonsensically funny, outrageously imaginative and
spectacularly theatrical. This play thoroughly captures that spirit.” -Minneapolis Star Tribune
46
Merry Christmas, Strega Nona
Author: Tomie dePaola
Music: Alan Shorter
Synopsis: Long ago, near a little town in Calabria, Italy lived
an old witch called Strega Nona, “Grandma Witch." She
knew magic and loved to use it to help people. Big Anthony,
Illustration by Tomie de Paola
Strega Nona’s helper, didn’t like to work, never paid
attention and almost always got into trouble. Every Christmas
Eve, Strega Nona made a big feast for all the people of Calabria with no magic at all because she says, “No magic at
Christmastime. Christmas has a magic all its own.” After Big Anthony nearly ruined Christmas by another one of his
goofs, it seemed like nothing but a miracle could save Strega Nona’s feast. But Christmas is a time for miracles…and
wonderful surprises too.
“Tomie dePaola’s slim story of a benevolent witch and her vow to eschew magic for the holidays is enlarged,
embellished and given a faithful yet new dimension on the stage.” – Minneapolis Star Tribune
The Midwife’s Apprentice
Author: Karen Cushman
Playwright: Constance Congdon
Synopsis: Set in Medieval England, we meet Brat, a young abandoned girl living
hand-to-mouth with a cat as her only companion. Her journey begins when she
becomes an apprentice for Jane, the stern village midwife. As Brat learns the secrets
of midwifery she begins to realize her potential, transforming from nameless
foundling to radiant Alyce. This engaging adaptation is brimming with intrigue,
adventures, and compelling characters.
Sherryl Rey and Sharva Maynard. Photo by Chris Bennion.
47
Mr. Pickwick’s Christmas
Synopsis: Wedding bells and yuletide greetings ring in the frosty air as Mr. Pickwick and
company board the coach for Wardle Farm and a holiday of feasting, games, and a riotous iceskating party. A memorable country Christmas culled from the pages of Charles Dickens’
Pickwick Papers.
George Muschamp and Wendy Lehr.
“Thomas Olson’s adaptation is stunning in its details, preserving the fecundity of Dickens’ writing and the
energy of his style.” –St. Paul Pioneer Press
The Monkey King
Author: Wu Chen-En
Playwright: Shen Pei
Translator: Jeffrey Hatcher
Synopsis: In the Heavenly Palace, the Jade Emperor and the Jade
Empress are holding a feast. Suddenly a monkey hatches from a
rock and declares himself King, shaking the very foundations of
Dean Holt and Gerald Drake. Photo by Rob Levine.
heaven and earth. He even travels to the underworld and erases his
death in the Book of the Dead. The Emperor tries to capture the Monkey, but the wily animal escapes, ending up in a
showdown with Buddha himself! Buddha wins and thus begins the Monkey’s earthly adventures. He accompanies a
monk on a pilgrimage, along with two traveling companions, a pig, Ba-jie, and a carp, Sha-sen, both of whom have been
sent down to earth after causing trouble in the Heavenly Realm. As with every great quest story, the journey tests the
character of the four travelers. To complete the mission, each must learn to recognize his weaknesses and understand
their strengths.
“The Monkey King is a beautiful synthesis of stylistic influences, from dance and Beijing Opera to cartoons,
from martial arts to old-fashioned stage hamming.” –Minneapolis Star Tribune
48
Nicky Somewhere Else
Synopsis: Nicky finds a photograph and discovers that he has a brother,
Noel. But Noel is somewhere else. Nicky decides to visit Noel, and
travels to the land of ‘somewhere else’, a beautiful land filled with
mountains, rivers, spacious skies and raucous angels.
Mara Hesed, Billy Seago, and Jason Collins. Photo by Chris Bennion.
“Death may seem an unlikely subject for children’s theater,
especially when the subject is the death of a sibling, and more particularly, a twin. But a willingness to
confront that profound loss is what makes Nicky Somewhere Else special. And the ability to go about that
daunting task with humor, creativity, immense charm and touching sensitivity is what makes it so
worthwhile [to see it].” - New York Times
The Nightingale
Synopsis: The majesty, grace, and poetic ritual of ancient China
are vividly depicted in this enthralling tale of the Emperor who
neglects the lyrical song of a humble nightingale for the artificial
splendor of a mechanical bird. The real nightingale is banished
from the empire. Years pass by unhappily, until the Emperor falls
gravely ill. As the figure of death lingers near his bed, the Emperor cries out for music from the artificial bird. But the bird
does not respond; there is no one to wind it. Suddenly, from the window, the song of the real nightingale fills the room.
She has heard the Emperor’s suffering and returned to bring him hope and comfort. Death retreats from the Emperor’s
chambers, and he rises from his bed, giving thanks to the nightingale.
49
Not Without Laughter
Author: Langston Hughes
Playwright: Syl Jones
Synopsis: Set in a small Kansas town at the turn of the century, Not Without Laughter is a
poignant story of an Africa-American boy’s coming of age, and the harsh and painful realities of
life in segregated America. The story is told from the perspective of Sandy, a ten-year-old boy.
Sandy grows up under the watchful eye of his grandmother, who tries to protect him from bad
Jackie Richardson and Adam Ward.
Photo by Donna Kelly
influences so he will not go astray. Sandy is an idealist, who has a voracious appetite for books.
He dreams of using the power of words to change people. This is a story that weaves together the magical
qualities of humanity – pain, love, laughter.
“[Not Without Laughter] allows a glimpse into a secret place, the otherworld where a writer lives half his
life.” –City Pages
The Old Man Who Loved Cheese
Author: Garrison Keillor
Playwright: Edward Barnes
Synopsis: What happens when a man loves cheese more than his family? They all up and
leave when the smell gets too bad, the police take him in, the judge gives a trial, and the
experts agree this old man smells foul! The lone hope is butterscotch, the only weapon
strong enough to combat a stinky man such as this!
Illustration by Anne Wilsdorf © 1996
50
Oliver Twist
Synopsis: What do you do with a boy who asks for more? Feed him on cockroaches
served in a canister? Oliver is an orphan growing up in 19th century England, and
misfortune seems to befall him at every turn. He escapes the orphanage, only to
be taken in by an evil man and his band of hooligans, including the Artful Dodger,
leader of the pick-pockets! Exciting as it is harrowing, this Dickens tale is sure to keep
audiences entertained!
Adam Kolman Marshak.
Once Upon A Forest
Author: Brothers Grimm
Playwright: Moniek Merkx & Elissa Adams
46 pgs. 3 female, 5 male (characters interchange)
Run Time: 1 hour 20 min
Synopsis: The fairy tales in Once Upon A Forest come to
us in parts, like a puzzle slowly coming together piece by
piece. First, there’s a piece of one, then another, another
piece of the first, a piece or two of a new one, and so
forth, as we journey on. We meet Snow White, a fameseeking Tailor, a hedgehog boy, and one generous young
Katy McEwen, Dean Holt and Emily Zimmer. Photo by Rob Levine.
man. Bordering this intricately detailed puzzle is a dragon
chasing a group of children. One falls behind and, whoosh, is gone. As the puzzle and dragon begin to merge, we see the
characters, who have been wandering through a wood, congregate and unite against the fiery foe. They slay the dragon
and each gets to wish for their heart's desire.
“Moniek Merkx makes the game of engaging in her dip into the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales in Once Upon a
Forest irresistible.” –TalkinBroadway.com
51
One Dark Night
Originally produced by Theatre Centre, UK, in 2004
Synopsis: One Dark Night is the story of a lonely child and his friend: a
cheeky, mischievous shadow. The adventure really begins at bedtime,
when the shadow disappears as mum turns off the lamp. The night, the
stars and the moon may know where it is hiding. Through object and shadow puppetry the play illuminates a small
child's big journey from fear to confidence; from standing alone in the playground at a new school to having the
confidence to play with someone; from being afraid of the dark to being comfortable without the light.
“There’s nothing like a magical piece of children’s theatre to remind us of the amazing power of the human
imagination.” – Living Scotsman, UK
One Snowy Night
Originally produced by Minerva Theatre Chichester, UK, in 2004
Synopsis: In an isolated part of Iceland at the beginning of the last
Illustration by Bethany Cynthia Knowles-Thompson.
century, winter still has its grip on the land. Mother declares that
she must travel to a safer place to have her new baby, and Father
wants Nonni to stay home and look after the sheep, especially his favourite, Gullbra. Nonni is angry and upset and finds
no comfort in the fact that Father leaves his favourite sheepdog, Titla, behind as company. Boy and dog are both
displeased. After his parents leave there is a great storm and Gullbra runs off into the snowy wastes. Nonni is frightened
of letting his father down and sets off after the sheep. Titla follows and an amazing event occurs, suddenly boy and dog
can understand each other perfectly. Their journey in search of Gullbra leads them into an amazing landscape, both real
and metaphorical.
52
Our Only May Amelia
Author: Jennifer L. Holm
Synopsis: In 1899, life on the Nasel River in Washington was
hard for anyone, but especially for 13-year-old May Amelia
Jackson, the only girl in all of the Nasel settlement. May
Amelia’s Papa thinks that hunting, fishing, and working at
the logging camp are all too rough for a little girl, but that
doesn’t stop May. When her Grandmother Patience comes
to stay with the family, May Amelia must learn to bite her
Alban Dennis, Jennifer Lee Taylor and Christopher Guilmet. Photo by Chris Bennion.
tongue or suffer the consequence – her Grandmother’s cane.
Once May’s mother gives birth to a baby girl, it seems as though all of May’s prayers have been answered. After tragedy
strikes and Grandmother Patience blames her, May runs off to Astoria to stay with her aunt. But living in the big city,
despite the new and exciting things it has to offer, means that May has to act like a “proper young lady”. Life on the
Nasel might be hard for a girl, but at least it is full of adventure – and family.
Penrod
Author: Booth Tarkington
Music: Anita Ruth
Synopsis: Penrod loves to daydream and write stories, but he
also manages to get himself in lots of trouble. Penrod and his
friend Sam meet Herman and Verman, two new boys who just
moved into town. The four boys set up a carnival-type show
Illustration by Gordon Grant © 1931
for the neighborhood kids. Penrod’s crush, Marjorie, comes
over and asks Penrod if he will take her and her brother, Mitchy-Mitch, to the real carnival in town. Once there, MitchyMitch gets upset which makes Marjorie mad at Penrod, and they both leave him. Penrod is so sad that when he meets
Rupe Collins, a carnival worker, he becomes convinced to run away and join the carnival. Later that night, when Penrod
is running away with Rupe, Herman and Verman show up and defend Penrod from Rupe, who is secretly a thief trying to
steal Penrod’s belongings.
“[Penrod] is an Americana-type musical to boot, celebrating small town nostalgia… Olson’s script neatly and
efficiently details a lot of the characters.” -Minneapolis Star Tribune
53
Peter and the Wolf
Author: Sergi Prokofiev
Playwright: Allison Gregory
Music: Hummie Mann
72 pgs. 5 Actors
Synopsis: Peter and his grandfather live in a house by a lush
meadow and sparkling pond, overlooked by a sturdy tree and
high stone wall. Grandfather warns Peter to stay out of the
meadow because a wolf is on the prowl. But what little boy can
resist playing outside on a beautiful day? After letting the duck
loose on the pond, Peter is rushed back behind the wall by
Lisa Estridge and Daniel Charles Dennis. Photo by Chris Bennion.
Grandfather. Luckily, Peter keeps an eye out for his feathered friends and is able
to warn the bird of the cat who stealthily approaches; too bad he couldn’t warn the duck when the wolf finally arrives.
The bird and cat manage to escape into the tree but the poor duck gets too confused and ends up a snack for the wolf.
Not wanting to see his other friends suffer the same fate, Peter devises a way to capture the wolf, before the hunters
can shoot him. Together they deliver the wolf safely to the nearby zoo.
“If you like old-style Loony Tunes cartoons, you’ll appreciate this play. It’s fun whether you’re four, 40 or
four score and 10.” –The Herald, Seattle
The royalty fee includes permission to make copies of the perusal script for your cast. Peter and the Wolf requires separate
underlying rights from G. Schirmer Inc.
54
Peter Pan
Author: JM Barrie
Playwright: Douglas Irvine
64 pgs, 6 Actors/Puppeteers
Synopsis: Peter Pan, who comes to hear the stories Mrs. Darling tells each
night, has lost his shadow. Tinker Bell, his fairy friend, helps him search,
but it’s Wendy Darling that re-attaches his shadow in trade for a kiss.
Peter flies Wendy, and her brother Michael, to Neverland so she can
mother the Lost Boys.
Brandon Weinbrenner. Photo by Rob Levine.
The flight is the entrance to adventure! In Neverland they encounter pirates, led by the infamous Captain Hook, play
with Peter’s friends, the Lost Boys, and rescue the Indian princess, Tiger Lily. Eventually, Wendy becomes homesick, and
soon she and the boys ask to go back to London. Peter refuses to go, but sends them off. As he falls asleep below, the
pirates capture all the others as they leave the underground house!
As Peter sleeps, Tinker Bell sees Hook poison the medicine Peter promised Wendy he would take. When Peter wakes up,
Tink quickly drinks the poison herself to save him, but if the audience believes in fairies they can save her life. Peter flies
to rescue Wendy and the Boys, engaging Hook in battle just as he is about to make the children walk the plank. After an
elaborate fight, the waiting crocodile eats Hook and Peter delivers the children home. He promises to return, and indeed
he does, years later, to meet Wendy’s daughter, Jane, so that the story can continue.
“I have loved the story of Peter Pan for as long as I can remember. The adventures of the Darling children in
Neverland has excited, enthralled and moved not only me, but generations of children and adults alike. But
what is it that makes it so appealing? To answer is like trying to catch a shadow! But I do know that
bringing this modern myth and its much loved characters to life for the stage has been a rare privilege, and
exploring the world of Captain Hook, Wendy, the Lost Boys, and of course Peter, has been like exploring the
shadows themselves - scary, fun, poetic, silly, profound and elusive - yet very, very real!"
-Dougie Irvine, playwright
"...you can just feel your imagination grow." -St. Paul Pioneer Press
55
Peter Pan
Author: JM Barrie
Music: Hiram Titus
Synopsis: The adventurous tale of the “boy who
wouldn’t grow up.” Mr. & Mrs. Darling have tucked
their children into bed. Peter Pan and Tinkerbell fly in
through the window and whisk the children out into the
night and away through the stars to the island of
David Cabot and ensemble. Photo by Sal Skog.
Neverland. Here the children encounter the Lost Boys, the exotic princess
Tiger Lily, and the dreadful Captain Hook. The adventure comes to a climax when Captain Hook captures the Darling
children and the Lost Boys, Tinkerbell is in trouble and Peter Pan must face the evil pirate to save his friends.
“Timothy Mason’s concise, fast-paced adaptation does an exuberant job of story-telling…Mason’s text is
bright, witty and doesn’t talk down to its child audience.” –Minneapolis Star Tribune
Pharaoh Serket and the Lost Stone of Fire
Pgs. 2 female, 5 male
Run Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Synopsis: The mysterious Zalira and sneeze-afflicted palace
scribe, Bakneb, must aid the young and spoiled Pharaoh Serket if
he is to escape death at the hands of his ever-present enemies.
Together they journey deep into the desert to find the Lost Stone
of Fire, a gem so mystical it is believed to grant its owner
immortality. However, Serket’s quest brings him a treasure even
greater.
Anthony Leroy Fuller, Hana Lass, Renata Friedman, and Trick Danneker. Photo by Chris Bennion.
“This world-premiere by John Olive is a little bit like an Indiana Jones flick…Add in some opulent visuals,
some genuine suspense and some good laughs and you have an eventful yarn set in ancient Egypt that can
keep a theater full of kids riveted.” –The Seattle Times
56
The Pied Piper of Hamelin
Author: Robert Browning
Synopsis: During the plague in 14th Century Germany, a town infested with rats turns to a piper to get rid of them. But a
cruel mayor leads to the Piper’s charge of payment – their children!
Pinocchio
Author: Carlo Collodi
Music: Chad Henry
4 female, 4 male (20 characters doubled)
Synopsis: This fast-paced musical, set in colorful 19th Century
Italy, tells the familiar story of an impish puppet who longs to be
a real boy. Willful and disobedient, and easily led astray by the
con artists Fox and Cat, Pinocchio runs away from the kindly
Geppeto to see the world. Pinocchio’s wild adventures take him
Leslie Law, Kevin Benedict, David Silverman. Photo by Chris Bennion.
from a sinister puppet theatre to Busy Beeville, menacing Funland,
and finally into the belly of a whale, where he barely escapes to return home, change his ways, and become a real boy.
Filled with rollicking songs, comedy, suspense and warmth you’re sure to delight in seeing this classic come to life.
Voted Best Original Score of 2002 by The Seattle Times.
57
Pinocchio
Author: Carlo Collodi
Music: Hiram Titus
Synopsis: The popular Italian tale of a puppet that can walk and talk like a real boy,
with a long nose, which becomes even longer when he tells a lie. Pinocchio is easily
convinced to join immoral adventures, such as going to a puppet show instead of
school, and an island that seems to be a place of paradise but really is a trap for
naughty boys. In the end, Pinocchio learns that being good and obeying his father are
the keys to becoming a real boy.
Gerald Drake and Steven Huke. Photo by Giannetti Studios.
“The script is clever enough to amuse children with broad humor yet respect their intelligence with a note or
two of dry wit.” –Pulse of the Twin Cities
Pippi Longstocking
Author: Astrid Lindgren
Synopsis: On the outskirts of town stands a ramshackle house. It
may not seem like much 'til you peek through the railings...then,
you see there's a horse on the porch, a monkey in the kitchen,
and a freckle-faced, red-pigtailed, whirlwind of a girl in
Jessie Shelton, Rebecca Lord and Amanda Grainger. Photo by Rob Levine.
mismatched stockings presiding over all! This is the domain of –
ready? – Pippilotta Delicatessa Windowshade Mackrelmint Ephraim’s Daughter Longstocking. Pippi is outrageously
unsupervised and proud of it. Her father is a pirate captain off sailing the seas. Her mother is an angel watching over her
from heaven. And neither the head of the Child Welfare Board, nor a couple of ne'erdo-wells who try to abscond with
the gold in her pirate treasure chest can get the best of her. In fact, the adults who come in contact with her often are
the ones who learn from the encounter. But it's not that she's unteachable. She cares more than she's willing to admit,
and she finds that fun can go too far. She simply doesn't fit, and it's hard to imagine Pippi fitting in anywhere - unless
you meet her, and then you can't imagine life without her.
"Fast-paced action-packed staging...a delight for both children and adults...Pippi's zany antics infect
everyone." -Artscape
58
Playing from the Heart
Originally produced by the Polka Theatre, UK, in 1998
Synopsis: Playing from the Heart is about the childhood of the world famous
percussionist Evelyn Glennie. It’s a gritty, yet poetic, piece which tells how Evelyn
became a musician despite becoming profoundly deaf between eight and twelve
years old. The realistic narrative is linked by a series of imaginative set pieces,
which explore the inner world of the deaf child. The play explores themes of family
love, overcoming impossible barriers, and the very nature of art and music. It also
provides a rich mix of movement, music, and text.
Erica Siegel. Photo by Scott Suchman.
“Way’s script- which has a seductive, memoir-style, no doubt because it was written with Glennie’s
cooperation - chronicles the vulnerable young dreamer’s enthusiams and setbacks… It’s ultra-inspiring stuff,
but Way avoids any power-of-positive-thinking triteness by anchoring the story firmly in a sense of artistic
wonder.” –The Washington Post
“Charles Way’s play is ingeniously conceived…” –The Washington Post
“If it’s Charles Way’s innovative and inspirational Playing from the Heart, you get an absorbing and
evocative biographical drama about a young woman both from and of the sticks who proved them all
wrong to become the premier percussion artist of her generation.” –DC Theatre Scene
Prince and the Pauper
Author: Mark Twain
Synopsis: Tom, a pauper, and Edward, the crown prince of England, come face to face. The
similarities in their looks lead them to start a fanciful adventure of trading places. Tom
experiences the magnificent lifestyle of royalty, while Edward discovers the daily struggles
of the poor. But the temporary switch continues and each boy finds himself trapped in a
life that does not belong to them.
Jake Armour Photography.
“Thomas W. Olson’s stage adaptation of Mark Twain’s classic children’s story is both compelling and
meaningful.” – Pulse of the Twin Cities
59
Prince Brat and the Whipping Boy
Author: Sid Fleischman
Playwright: Sid Fleischman
Music: John Engerman
Synopsis: Sid Fleischman’s Newberry Award-winning book The
Whipping Boy translates perfectly to the stage with this hilarious
musical adaptation. The play traces the unlikely friendship
between horrible Horace, aka “Prince Brat,” and Jemmy, the
Jason Collins, Hugh Hastings, and Jeff Cummings. Photo by Chris Bennion.
street urchin who’s been brought to court and put in fancy clothes to take the
Prince’s punishment for him. Though Jemmy has plans for a solo escape, he’s enlisted by the Prince as a companion
runaway. The two soon encounter trouble from the outlaws Cutwater and Hold-Your-Nose-Billy, and Jemmy’s wit must
save them. In the spirit of Twain’s Prince and the Pauper, this winning adventure is surefire fun.
Punch and Judy, and the Three Sillies
Synopsis: Reggie, Ruby’s suitor, comes to visit Ruby and the Crimshams at their home. While visiting, Reggie comes to
the conclusion that Ruby and her family are just too silly, and he breaks off the engagement, telling them that he may
rethink his decision if he ever found three people sillier than they are. So, the Crimshams hatch a plan: they convince
Reggie to spend the night and then pretend to be other people, sillier than themselves. Reggie falls for it and re-engages
himself with Ruby.
The second half of the play is a Punch and Judy sketch. Punch has encounters with Toby the dog, a doctor, Judy, the
baby, the Hangman, and Scaramuch. The play ends with everyone pulling off their masks and Reggie and Ruby getting
married.
“Patterned conscientiously after English folk tales, pantomime and 17 th Century puppet shows, ‘Punch and
Judy and the Three Sillies’ is true to its name – relentlessly and uncompromisingly silly.” –Minnesota Daily
60
Puss in Boots
Playwright: Sharon Holland
Synopsis: This classic French tale has been transported to early 19th-century New Orleans,
where Puss is the sassiest, brassiest cat this side of Bourbon Street. Fitted with a grand pair of
red boots and a clever nature, Puss matches wits with an arrogant young Creole aristocrat, the
social-climbing mayor of New Orleans, and Croque Mitaine, an evil voodoo bogeyman, all to
bring title, wealth, and love to his astonished master.
Nate Peterson.
“The Children’s Theatre Company version of Puss in Boots may be the sassiest theatricalization of a fairy
tale ever seen on stage. Also one of the happiest.” –Minneapolis Tribune
“Playwright Holland has a knack for the witty one-liner, the funny turn of logic and ironic twist.”
The Railway Children
66 pgs. 5 male, 6 female
Originally produced by York Theatre Royal, UK, in 2008
Age Recommendation: 8 +
Synopsis: Bobby (Roberta), Phyllis, and Peter lead us back in time to the year they
were the Railway Children. When father mysteriously is called away and the family
has to move from their mansion to a small cottage in the country, the children call
upon their kind hearts and vivid imaginations to entertain them while mother is busy.
They make friends with Perks, the Porter at the railway, and the Old Gentleman who
waves from the 9:15 train every day. These three children save the day many a time,
diverting trains from disaster, taking in Russian writers, and ultimately rescuing their
father from his unjust imprisonment.
“Mike Kenny has given the story excitement and imagination, and kept it anchored in the real world. His wit
has appealing irony and the twee barometer barely registers. These Railway Children are on a journey of
self-discovery.” – The Stage, UK
“Mike Kenny's new adaptation banishes the whiff of tea-time serializations and reveals Nesbit's book as a
radical work of profound, even Shavian moral purpose.” – Guardian, UK (5 Star Review)
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Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm
Author: Kate Wiggins
Synopsis: Rebecca, a bright, outspoken young girl, leaves her farmland home to live
with her two elderly aunts in the town of Riverboro, Maine. On the farm, Rebecca didn’t
have to worry about conventional rules placed upon a young girl growing up during the
early 1900’s. However, when Rebecca moves to the city, her independent nature is
tested. Once she starts exploring the town of Riverboro, tongues start wagging.
Rebecca’s Aunt Miranda is unamused when she finds out that Rebecca has spoken out
of turn in class, sold soap door-to-door, and ruined the gingham dress made especially for her. This original adaptation
focuses on the conflict between the strong-willed personalities of Rebecca and her Aunt Miranda and Rebecca’s struggle
to please her elderly aunt while trying to find her own place in the world.
“It is a wonderful story, good for children, and it is well told.” –Southside Pride
The Red Badge of Courage
Author: Stephen Crane
Playwright: Joe Sutton
Synopsis: One boy must reconcile courage, fear, and duty as he
marches to the battle that will shape his life. The year is 1863
and the United States is immersed in a bloody civil war. This
was a time where honor was tested and patriotism redefined.
Adam Twiss, Lathrop Walker, and Shawn Telford. Photo by Chris Bennion.
Young Henry Fleming joins the endless marching drudgery
toward battle, but flashes of panic interrupt this hard slog. After faltering and losing his way, Henry musters up what
courage he has left and, with unforeseen fierceness, leads a charge that captures the enemy’s flag, just as he recaptures
his own pride and honor.
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Red Earth
Author: Saskia Janse
25 pgs., 3 actors/puppeteers
Originally produced by: Speeltheater Holland/Sisonke Arts 2006
Synopsis: Every year a stork with many stories migrates from the North to
deep warm South Africa. One of these tales is the true story about
Nongqawuse, a Xhosa girl. A 15-year-old girl that radically changed the
history of the Xhosa people. One day, Nongqawuse comes back from the river
saying the ancestors appeared to her with the prophecy that the dead will
arise, the white people and unbelievers will be driven into the sea, and the
From the Speeltheater Holland production.
once powerful Xhosa people will be as strong as before. To make this all happen,
however, they have to kill all their cattle and burn all their grain. The prophecy brings hope, for the people are
tormented by colonial wars and mysterious cattle diseases. It also brings discord, manipulation, and betrayal and at the
end a terrible famine. Everyone points at Nongqawuse. But was she really the one who engineered all this?
Red Red Shoes
51 pgs., Cast size is flexible; can vary from 4 to 40 actor/dancers
Originally produced by Unicorn Theatre and The Place, UK, in 2001
Synopsis: Franvera lives in a country “so very near so very far away,” and on her birthday she is given a pair of red
dancing shoes. When her country collapses into war and ethnic cleansing, the shoes become both her link with her old
life and also a symbol of the trauma she suffers.
Red Red Shoes won the Arts Council of England’s ‘Children’s Award’ in 2004
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Reeling
Playwright: Barry Kornhauser
ensemble of 50-60 Keystone Kops (a minimum of 15) (Doubling is possible)
Synopsis: Without a single spoken word, Reeling tells the story of the Little Fellow, based
on the film persona of silent movie great Buster Keaton. His marriage proposal turned
down by Beloved, the Little Fellow heads to the big city to make something of himself,
and winds up in a motion picture studio where he is mistaken for the big-shot director.
Comic mayhem ensues with an impossibly happy ending, as our hero and his girl escape
the chaos (literally) into the silver screen. Riffing off of Keaton’s genius, Reeling is not so
much a silent movie on stage as a theatrical interpretation of the genre, a celebration of
the human spirit and the enduring power of art. As CTC Artistic Director Peter Brosius
Dean Holt. Photo by Rob Levine.
noted: “What a great thing for kids to know, that no matter what befalls you – and things
will befall you – you can keep putting one foot in front of the other [even in slap shoes] and find a way to laugh.
…Through persistence, through laughter, through blind faith and a wee bit of optimism, you can make it.”
“The show’s roots lie in the time-transcendent soil of the pratfall and the struggle of the little guy to make
good. From that fertile ground comes laughter – and wisdom – that rings loud and clear.”
– St. Paul Pioneer Press
Winner of the 2006 IVEY Award for Playwriting
The Reluctant Dragon
Author: Kenneth Grahame
Playwright: Tom Poole and Jon Cranney
Synopsis: This charming play tells the tale of a boy who meets a
kind and funny dragon on the edge of town. The boy and the
dragon become friends and start spending a lot of time together.
Then the people of the town find out about the dragon and send
for St. George. The boy meets with St. George and takes him to
meet the dragon. All three soon become friends and find themselves in a quandary. George doesn't want to kill the
dragon and the dragon has no desire to kill George. A plan is hatched and at the end of the story everyone celebrates in
a happy party.
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Rembrandt Takes a Walk
Author: Red Grooms and Mark Strand
Playwright: Constance Congdon
Music: Hiram Titus
Synopsis: Tom is not pleased to leave his TV and snacks to visit his boring Uncle
Morton. There is nothing to do in his big house except look at the art, and that is
boring! When Tom goes looking for a bite to eat, the only food he can see is in the
paintings, which look very real, and even taste very real. Rembrandt hops from his
painting to help Tom see art through different eyes, and Tom helps Rembrandt see
the excitements of modern life!
David Fenley and Billy Olson.
“With humor that steers young viewers towards art appreciation...Rembrandt offers eye-candy and fullmeal theater in one concentrated dose.”– City Pages, MN
Ricky of the Tuft
4/5 actors/puppeteers
Synopsis: One bright day in early spring, three royal children are born. Baby-prince
Ricky, unfortunately, proves so ugly that everyone casting a glance inside his cradle
gets a fright. But ugly though he may be, his cleverness outwits everybody. In a
neighbouring realm that same day, two princesses enter into this world. Isabel, the
From the Speeltheater Holland production.
first princess, is so beautiful that no room is left for any brains. Her twin sister, Claudia,
on the other hand possesses all the cleverness the first one misses, but totally lacks any good looks. Fortunately, as is
only possible in fairytales, a good fairy brings the solution. She makes two predictions. To ugly prince Ricky she foretells
that he will share his intelligence with his future beloved. Isabel receives the promise that she will share her beauty
when the due time has come. And that made an end to all problems. Or…did it?
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Rip Van Winkle
Synopsis: Rip Van Winkle is the laziest man to live in the village of Falling
Waters, under the Catskill Mountains. Though he is well-loved by those in his
community, especially the children, he is constantly nagged by his wife for his
slothful behavior. One night after a bad spat with his wife, Rip goes out on his
own. He comes across a little man carrying a barrel of schnapps. As they arrive
at the top of the mountain, more and more little men join them. It’s the ghostly
Gerald Drake. Photo by Gianetti Studios.
crew of Henry Hudson who plays ninepins with lightning bolt balls. The schnapps
sends Rip to sleep for twenty years. When he finally awakens, everything in his town has changed. His son and daughter
have grown, and his wife has died. However, Rip is able to keep his promise to his daughter, “though I go ten thousand
miles, I will come back to you.”
“The script by Fred Gaines…moves along nicely and gives each character strong, lively speeches, keeping a
friendly rustic tone.” – Minneapolis Star
Robin Hood
Playwright: Thomas Poole
Synopsis: The play opens with Robin Hood, the cherished outlaw, being held in
custody by the ruthless Sheriff of Nottingham. Robin is about to be hanged and King
Richard’s traveling judges insist on presiding with the trial, even though it happens to
be May Day, with all the traditional festivities about to begin. The Judge then asks the
townspeople (who see Robin as a hero) to reenact Robin’s exploits. The townspeople
will stop at nothing to help Robin Hood, and with their reenactments the Judge finds
out who is the real hero of this classic tale.
“In the midst of these delights, what stands out most strongly is Poole’s lively, intelligent script. The result is
a highly satisfying version of the tale of the outlaw and his merry men who robbed from the rich and gave to
the poor.”– St. Paul Pioneer Press Dispatch
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Romeo and Juliet
Editor: Greg Banks
46 pgs., 2 female, 11 male (Doubling is possible)
Synopsis: Shakespeare's immortal story of young love and rebellion comes to visceral,
thrilling life in this brilliant new version by Greg Banks. Take to the streets as Romeo and
Juliet's new found love ignites the passion and rage of all Verona. There you will be swept
away by sword fights, mystified at a masquerade ball, and witness to fiery lover's trysts.
“Romeo has just drunk his draught of poison and is bending down to give one last
Lindsey Hartley and Matt Rein. Photo by Rob Levine.
kiss to the not-really-dead Juliet. As their lips meet, Juliet revives and ardently returns
her lover’s kiss…just before he dies in her arms. That familiar scene is always laced with bitter irony. But in
CTC’s gripping and urgent staging of Romeo & Juliet it just about stops the audience’s heart along with
Romeo’s.” -St. Paul Pioneer Press
“With [Banks’] muscular and rollicking Romeo & Juliet, he has opened wide the soul of the Bard’s tragedy,
and touched our own.” –Star Tribune
Winner of the 2009 IVEY Award for Direction
Romeo and Juliet
Editor: Rita Giomi
Synopsis: This classic tale of love and death is both lively and accessible
to young audiences. Romeo Montague and pals sneak into a ball given
by the rival Capulet family, and there he first glimpses the beautiful
Juliet. Later, beneath her balcony, he declares his love, which she
embraces fully. Then, a series of tragic events: Romeo’s kin, Mercutio,
Amy Thone, Eric Salamon, and Sarah Getzoff. Photo by Chris Bennion.
dies in a duel with Juliet’s cousin; Romeo kills in rash vengeance; Romeo
and Juliet plan to marry in secret; Juliet fakes her death; Romeo does not get the message and kills himself; and then
Juliet follows suit. This edited version deals with issues that have transcended time, such as youthful passion, parental
disapproval, gang violence, and teen suicide.
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Rumpelstiltskin
56 pgs. Cast of 6 doubled
Originally produced by Theatre Powys, UK, in 1993
Synopsis: The Miller is overprotective of his young daughter and refuses to let her help
with any work; despite her rare beauty, she is helpless when it comes to the mundane
chores of everyday life. In an attempt to defend his daughter’s uselessness, he makes
the mistake of falsely proclaiming that his daughter can spin straw into gold. Meanwhile,
the Kingdom is in a predicament when the King suddenly dies leaving the young price to
inherit the throne. As the years progress, the wealth of the kingdom is squandered on
frivolous expenses, and the young prince quickly turned king, finds himself at odds with
his subjects. All that remains in the treasure rooms of the palace are piles upon piles of straw.
The King, in dire need of wealth, seeks the assistance of the Miller’s daughter. He believes her to be capable of returning
him to his affluent state by turning his piles of straw into gold. The story concludes with the characters facing lifealtering decisions, broken promises and an array of mysterious events.
“Mike Kenny’s adaptation of the age-old story invokes the humor and the darkness of the original, engaging
both children and adults alike.” – The Stage, UK
The Search for Odysseus
Originally produced by Wales Stage Company, UK, in 1993
Synopsis: The Search for Odysseus tells the story of the Odyssey, from the point of view
of Telemachus, the son of Odysseus. After the Trojan War, Odysseus does not return with
the other soldiers, and Telemachus sets out to find him, and in so doing, embarks on a
voyage of self discovery.
From the Wales Stage Company production.
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The Secret Garden
Author: Frances Hodgson Burnett
Synopsis: A dark spell of sorrow and mystery hovers in the air as the young orphan,
Mary Lennox, arrives at Misselthwaite Manor, the Yorkshire estate of her uncle
Archibald Craven. The desolation of the surrounding moors, the puzzling reticence
of the servants, and the grim demeanor of her uncle provide a less than warm
welcome for the spoiled, friendless child. Left to her own devices, Mary takes to
exploring the grounds and comes upon a walled garden, locked for over ten years.
One day, a friendly robin helps Mary discover the key. Once inside, she finds what must have been the most beautiful
garden in all of England. Now, though, weeds grow where roses once bloomed. Mary decides that this place will be her
secret refuge and she begins to tend the garden alone. Inside the manor, another secret lurks. At night, strange,
haunting sounds echo down the empty corridors – is it the wind howling or a child crying? This mystery is so deep that is
will take all Mary’s determination and courage to solve it.
“Thomas Olson’s adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s familiar post-Victorian novel is a respectful one
that effectively makes the point that love can erase the darkest experiences and memories .”
– Minneapolis Star Tribune
Sherlock Holmes and the Baker Street Irregulars
Author: Arthur Conan Doyle
Synopsis: Out in the damp London streets at the river wharf, and in his comfortable
apartment at 221B Baker Street, Sherlock Holmes is at work on a puzzling new case. In
addition to his faithful friend Watson, Holmes has enlisted the cooperation of some
ragged street urchins, known as the “Baker Street Irregulars.” Together they investigate
the appearance in London of a derelict cargo ship and the poisonous giant rat of
Sumatra, a royal kidnapping, the eruption of Krakatoa, and a pair of lethal pygmies.
“Sherlock Holmes and the Baker Street Irregulars is a rich mélange of familiar Holmesiana and unlikely
historical coincidences bound together in a slowly accelerating mystery of labyrinthine dimension.”
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Sinbad: The Untold Tale
Originally produced by Theatre By the Lake, UK, in 2006
Run Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Synopsis: Ancient Baghdad is a city full of life, color, and danger. Sinbad
the porter, a young man who survives on his wits and not much else, is
given a box to carry to the house of the famous Sinbad the sailor, who is
now an old man. On arrival, the porter meets Ittifaq, Sinbad’s
quarrelsome daughter, and their differences soon become apparent.
Just as the porter is about to leave, the house is
visited by the ancient Sorceress Jan Shah. Jan Shah places a deadly cloud over the city that threatens to kill all its
inhabitants. The antidote is in a flower, in a cave deep beneath the sea, and Jan Shah challenges the old sailor Sinbad to
go on one last adventure and save the city he loves. Sinbad the sailor knows he cannot do this and thus the task falls to
the two youngsters. Their journey is daring, hazardous and involves a magic boat, a silent but deadly genie, and, most
dangerous of all, a confrontation with Jan Shah, who wants nothing less than the blood of Ittifaq in order to become
young again—and perhaps live forever.
“This variation on the stories of Sinbad the Sailor is an original work by Charles Way...and set to become a
firm seasonal favorite everywhere.” – The Stage, UK
Sink or Swim
Originally produced at Quicksilver Theatre Company, UK, in 1994
Age Recommendation: 8+
Synopsis: In this witty, modern spin on the story of Noah’s Ark, a family
bickers and banters as they try to cope with life on their boat. Along with
their mute daughter, who remembers those left behind, and a huge
assortment of animals, they ponder life before and after the unending
rain. Will people live in harmony? Will there be an end to cruelty? Giant
images of animals, birds and paradise are painted live throughout the show
and fill the stage with a riot of color.
"Sink or Swim delves beneath the symbolism of the story of Noah and his ark to explore the humanity of the
lone survivors of the flood... A fine, innovative piece of theatre for children and their families." -Time Out UK
Time Out ‘Best Children's Show’ 1994
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Sleeping Beauty (Musical)
Music and Additional Lyrics: Chad Henry
Synopsis: This musical retelling of Sleeping Beauty maintains the
classic fairy tale but tells it with a modern touch of humor and
style—our princess has spirit and a will of her own. Once upon a
time, a long, long time ago, two magical sisters watched over a land,
Khanh Doan. Photo by Chris Bennion.
a land so very far away. The sisters, Branwen and Modron, vied for the life of
an innocent child found in the woods, Briar Rose. As a kindness, Branwen gave the baby to the King and Queen.
However, Modron vowed that if she couldn’t have the girl no one could. Before night’s end on her sixteenth birthday,
Briar Rose will be doomed to prick her finger on a spinning wheel’s spindle and fall to her death. Branwen was able to
grant the family a reprieve; instead of death, Briar Rose would merely fall into a hundred-year sleep, with only the touch
of true love’s kiss able to break the spell. Knowing that much can happen in sixteen years, Branwen sent the child a
companion, Gryff, a creature half man and half dragon. Despite Gryff’s diligence, Briar Rose fell prey to the hex, and only
her friend, the hapless Prince Owain, could save her. Filled with trepidation, Owain embarked on the quest to conquer
the Spider King and enchanted fairies. But does he have the courage to vanquish Modron herself?
“If you’re looking for children’s holiday entertainment with depth, the ancient art form of the fairy tale fills
the bill.” –Seattle Post Intelligencer
Sleeping Beauty (Non-Musical)
Synopsis: Here comes a bolder, funnier version of one of your favorite tales. Meet one of
the more independent, headstrong, in-your-face princesses, Briar Rose (a.k.a. Sleeping
Beauty). And Gryff, who’s half-dragon and total smart aleck. There’s Branwen, the really
nice witch who tries to out-spell the evil Modron. And, of course, Prince Owain, who
comes with the standard princely features, minus bravery, talent, and competence. In
between the story you know is a deliciously funny and amazing adventure, replete with
troublesome fairy folk and a riddle-challenging Spider King.
Dean Holt and Sonja Parks. Photo by Rob Levine.
“This is no Disney-fied romp. It’s the real deal. The witch is evil. The princess is angry…This show is the real
McCoy – and really good.” –People Newspapers, Texas
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Snapshot Silhouette
Playwright: Kia Corthron
Run Time: 2 hours with intermission
Synopsis: Najma, a Somali girl of 12, reads from her notebook
memories of her home: people praying, the droughts, famine,
and political upheaval that led so many to flee her country. As
she recounts the story of her journey to Minneapolis, other
students, particularly Tay C, a 12-year-old American girl with
whom Najma lives, complain. Tay C is angry and grieving for the
Amanda Granger, Sonja Parks , and Marie-Francoise. Photo by Rob Levine.
loss of her sister, who was killed two years
ago in gang crossfire. After school, Najma follows Tay C to the cemetery. All the buried dead there bring up memories of
the unburied casualties of war in Somalia, and the deaths Najma has witnessed. Najma is waiting for her mother, her
Hooyo, to come to America, but that becomes less likely as the political climate causes changes that make it difficult to
get money to her in Somalia. The tension grows between Tay C and Najma until they even have a fist fight in their room.
They harass each other constantly in every way they can find. When Najma's cousin and brother come to get Najma it
brings Tay C and her mother closer, and at last, we get a glimpse of the two girls, each in new schools, but having
reached an understanding - and beginning to discover a friendship.
The Snow Queen
Originally produced by Graffiti Theatre Company, UK, 2005
Synopsis: An evil magician creates a mirror with the magic power of taking anything good
and shrinking it to next to nothing. Beautiful landscapes look like deserted car parks. Nice
people become nasty. Gerda finds the mirror and accidentally drops it, shattering it into a
million pieces. Each little piece of the mirror holds the same power as the full magic mirror.
Unfortunately, Gerda’s best friend, Kai, gets a piece of the mirror stuck in his eye and in his ear,
and becomes cruel. When Kai meets the Snow Queen he is in awe. She kisses him, and they
disappear into the sky together.
Gerda then sets out to find and rescue her dear friend. Along the way, she encounters many interesting folks whose help
she enlists to find Kai. With her tears, she releases the evil shards of mirror from him. The Snow Queen is then gone
forever. This is Hans Christian Andersen at his mythical best.
“Guaranteed to leave you feeling deliriously festive.” -Yorkshire Evening Post, UK
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The Snow Queen
Originally produced at Sherman Cymru, UK, in 2009
Synopsis: The Snow Queen rules her magical kingdom with a heart of ice and a grip as cold
as steel. When shards of an enchanted mirror fly into Cei's eye he falls under its spell. He
becomes cold-hearted and the Snow Queen steals him away to her far-away land. With Cei
as her helper, The Snow Queen has a chilling plan: to freeze the hearts of all living things
and rule supreme over a world of snow and ice. Only little Gerda, Cei's childhood friend,
believes he can still be rescued and sets out on a life-changing journey to save Cei and
defeat the Snow Queen.
Anna Mountford. Photo by Toby Farrow.
“What distinguishes this show from much Christmas fare is that is never patronizes its young audience, or
takes the obvious route when a more imaginative one is available. Way’s writing has a lightness about it
that works delightfully. This is a magical story, very well told.” –The Guardian, UK
“Funny, sometimes frightening and hugely entertaining. The Snow Queen is wonderful family entertainment
for the festive season.” –South Wales Argus
The Song from the Sea
Originally produced by Visible Fictions, UK, 2001
Synopsis: A spellbinding blend of puppetry, music and visual storytelling, this
is the story of Josh, a little boy who lives in a noisy house with a busy family.
One day, through the household din, he hears a faint yet beautiful sound
calling out to him. So begins Josh's incredible aquatic adventure with his Gran.
The story behind the song reveals a wonderful and moving tale full of hope.
“A mesmerizing new show for children..the story is magical and absorbing.” -The Scotsman
“Absolutely spellbinding.” –The Herald, UK
“A stand-out family theatre experience.” -The Los Angeles Times
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The Sorcerer’s Apprentice
Playwright: OyamO
Music: Carman Moore
Doubling is possible. Original production done with 6-7 actors
Synopsis: Young, hungry, and on his own, Charles finds himself in a mystical
wood with talking plants and animals—the prickly Jeremy Groundhog,
Southern belle Ms. Orange Tree, the grounded Mr. Juniper Bush and more.
Catching a glimpse of Marguerite, the queen of the forest, he is astounded as
she makes everyday objects sail through the air, work in the garden, and seem
to come alive. He has never seen a sorcerer before! Charles eagerly seeks to
become her apprentice, but his arrogance, disrespect, and gullibility have him
Khanh Doan, Leslie Law, Mo Brady, and Peter A. Jacobs. Photo by Chris Bennion.
quickly run through the three chances that Marguerite granted him. After the
third incident, the sorcerer’s trust in Charles is gone. In his desperation, he turns to Big John King, a flimflam artist, to
convince Marguerite to take him back. Now things look bleak for Marguerite, but Charles comes to his mentor’s aid,
fending off John’s giant and sinister minions in a spectacular battle. For his loyalty and bravery, Marguerite gives him
another chance. He has finally learned to listen to others and is truly ready to be the sorcerer’s apprentice.
“Judging by the amount of children’s laughter at Seattle Children’s Theatre, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice…is a
definite crowd pleaser.” –TheaterMania.com
A Special Trade
Author: Sally Wittman
Playwright: Christer Dahl
Synopsis: Bartholomew and Nelly are not just neighbors, they're best friends. Every day,
Bartholomew pushes Nelly in her stroller around the neighborhood. They especially like
getting sprayed by Mrs. Pringle's sprinkler and going over Mr. Oliver's bumpity-bump-bump
driveway. And when Nelly grows up and Bartholomew grows old, their joy in being together
continues, no matter what. For this story of two people, from two generations, shows better
than most, what it truly means to be friends forever.
Leif Jurgensen. Photo by Michael Anderson.
“[A Special Trade] is a winsome and lovely bit of storytelling, a gentle and empowering tale about
friendship, and a theatrical experience as satisfying for its intended audience of preschoolers as it is for the
grown-ups who bring them.” –St. Paul Pioneer Press
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A Spell of Cold Weather
Originally produced by Royal Exchange Theatre, UK, in 2003
Synopsis: The play is set on a farm, which is the home of two down-in-the-mouth farmers, Betty and Bob. They have lost
touch with each other, their animals, and their own culture. In the time between Christmas and New Year, Betty and
Bob get a surprise. Their little niece Holly needs to come and stay because her Mum is having an operation. When Holly
arrives she feels very alone in a strange world with no friends. Things pick up, however, when she meets Tomos
Trickman, a Puck-like fairy who explains to Holly how the two farmers have forgotten how to sing, dance, and play
games. Worst of all they refuse to believe he exists and have stopped putting food out for him in the traditional manner.
Together Holly and Tomos bring the farm back to spiritual health, and the play ends with an unforgettable, magical, New
Year’s night party.
Winner the Writer’s Guild Award for Best Children’s Play 2003
Starry Messenger
Playwright: Kari Margolis
Synopsis: The story begins with Galileo as a young boy, inspired and awed
by the heavens, and it follows his incredible and visionary life to old age.
Starry Messenger uses historical fact as a stepping stone to imagination,
creating a fable that allows us to actually enter the mind of one of the
world’s greatest scientists and give audiences unique access to the curious
man who challenged society to view the world and the heavens in new
ways.
Jon Richardson. Photo by Giannetti Studios.
“Starry Messenger…is a sumptuous celebration of light, media and movement. Kari Margolis’ script jangles
with just enough rhyme to keep the audience listening hard.” – St. Paul Pioneer Press
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Stellaluna
Author: Janell Cannon
Music: Guus Ponsioen
Synopsis: Baby bat Stellaluna's life is flitting along right on schedule until an owl attacks her mother one night, knocking the bewildered
batlet out of her mother's loving grasp. The tiny bat is lucky enough to
land in a nest of baby birds, but her whole world has just turned
Lisa Estridge, Vickielee Wohlbach, Rich Gray, and David Silverman. Photo by Chris Bennion.
upside down. Literally. Stellaluna's adoptive bird mom accepts her into
her nest, but only on the condition that Stellaluna will act like a bird, not a bat. Soon Stellaluna has learned to behave
like a good bird should - she quits hanging by her feet and starts eating bugs. But when she finally has an opportunity to
show her bird siblings what life as a bat is like, all of them are confounded. Anyone who has ever been asked to be
someone they're not will understand the conflict - and possibilities - Stellaluna faces.
“[Stellaluna] even, if one dares say it, improves on the book, adding wit, humor and hummable tunes to this
fable about being different yet fitting in.” – Seattle Times
The royalty fee includes permission to make copies of the perusal script for your cast. Stellaluna requires separate underlying rights from the
Dijkstra Agency.
Stepping on Cracks
20 pgs., 1 female, 1 male (and one Bear, played by either)
Originally produced by West Yorkshire Playhouse, UK, in 2000
Synopsis: “Don’t step on the cracks or the Bears will get you”... This is the story of Billy
and Bear. Billy's feeling bothered but does anyone care? His day has gone wonky, it's not
looking good. And what's in the cave in the deep, dark wood? What does a little boy do
when he's not listened to? He turns to the bears for help. Reality and fantasy blend with
music, humor, and color in this delightful tale with which young audiences will identify.
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Stepping Stones
Music: Sam Paechter
Originally produced at Interplay, UK, in 1996
Synopsis: Stepping Stones is a play for young people with learning
disabilities and their families and friends. This story goes from high noon
hilltop heat haze to a snow-bound moonlit beach. Cynth, a young woman on a journey of change, is determined to find
the fallen star for her Mam. Mam doesn’t want Cynth to go, but Mam decides that she will help Cynth and secretly
follows her on her journey. Both Cynth and her Mam encounter interesting characters on their journey, and find the
home stone, the stepping stone, and the star stone. In the end, they learn that everything must grow and change.
Winner of the ‘Best Children’s Play’ by the Writer’s Guild of Great Britain in 1997
Winner of the Arts Council of England Children’s Award in 2000
“…wildly funny and often moving as it works through a series of strongly charged theatrical images.” -Times
Educational Supplement
The Story of Babar, the Little Elephant
Author: Jean de Brunhoff
Music: Steven Rydberg
(original production had a cast of 24, which included ensemble and doubling)
Synopsis: Orphaned as a young elephant, Babar flees the forest and runs all the way to the
city of Paris, where he is taken in by the generous Old Lady who teaches him the ways of
the fashionable Parisians, buying him clothing, teaching him French, and indulging in the
finest pastries and a shiny red car! The excitement evolves when his friends from the
forest, Cousin Arthur and the lovely Celeste, come to the city to find him, and they all get
to experience the differing cultures of city and forest life!
Tony Gorzycki as Babar.
77
Stuck
Originally produced by Blah, Blah, Blah, UK, in 1995
Synopsis: Eng and Chang were the Original Siamese Twins. Although they
were met by fear and outrage at their birth, they grew to be accepted by the
people of their village. When they met Robert Hunter, an American
businessman, and joined a freak show, their adventure really began. Being
surgically detached may kill them, but being stuck might drive them mad.
Tale of a West Texas Marsupial Girl
Playwright: Lisa D’Amour
Music: Sxip Shirey
Synopsis: One day, somewhere in West Texas, a girl is born. She’s
got beautiful toes, a beautiful nose, all her tiny fingers and all her
tiny toes, but, holy puppy on a peach tree, she is something else!
Something a bit like a kangaroo!! This girl is about 95% girl and about
5% marsupial. In other words, she’s got a pouch. It might seem that
Ann Reichert and ensemble. Photo by Sarah Johnson.
a built-in pocket would come in handy, but it doesn’t always work that
way. The day the Marsupial Girl (MG) is born the town isn’t ready to accept this kind of different. MG does have a
marvelous relationship with one precious friend, Sue, who knows some of the secrets of the wonderful pouch, but when
Marsupial Girl goes to school their friendship falls on hard times. You see, MG can do things – like steal the voice right
out of somebody’s throat, and put in her pouch. At first, she only steals meanness, but when everybody expects the
worst of her, she stops trying to be her best, and soon she starts stealing whatever she can. She steals insults, questions,
bubble gum, a Barbie doll, cigarettes, and ribbons right out of a girl’s hair. She keeps stealing until there’s nothing left
but her and her – big – huge – pouch. Now she’s really lonesome. But Sue comes back. Together they put the world back
in order, and in the process help other people understand that MG’s just plain different. And that’s a wonderful thing.
“D’Amour is a complex, engaging writer known for her experimental works. Marsupial Girl…is her foray into
the world of children’s theater. Its plot, about differences large and small, resonates.” – Minneapolis Star
Tribune
78
Tales of a 4th Grade Nothing
Author: Judy Blume
Playwright: Bruce Mason
87 pgs. 10-12 actors
Synopsis: Oh brother! Sibling mischief and best pal escapades are the problems Peter
Hatcher faces in his attempts to deal with his impossible little brother, Fudge. Based on
the popular title by perennial favorite Judy Blume, Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing is a
humorous look at family life and the troubles that can only be caused by a younger sibling.
Daniel Midler and Andy Paterson.
“One of the reasons we like this show so much is it allows kids who have siblings to recognize certain
feelings they might be having…and realize it’s OK to have them.” –Kate Hanely, Tour Director of Tales of a 4th
Grade Nothing at the Kennedy Center
The royalty fee includes permission to make copies of the perusal script for your cast. One Act version also available.
The Three Musketeers
Author: Alexandre Dumas
Synopsis: A corrupt cardinal seeks to disrupt the throne. He hires
people to kill the musketeers and to steal the queen’s diamonds.
The musketeers thwart him and gain justice for all.
79
The Tinderbox
Originally produced by Gardner Arts Centre, UK, in 2005
Synopsis: The Tinderbox is an epic journey, from rags to riches, through war, political intrigue, the depths of despair to
the heights of love and passion. It is a classic everyman tale inspired by the Hans Andersen story. Jonas, a handsome
young soldier, discovers treasure beyond his wildest dreams when he finds a tinderbox which gives him power beyond
other mortals. Jonas’ adventures explore friendship, betrayal and the importance of ”staying true” to one’s values.
Exciting and touching, the story includes a fantastical range of characters—a witch, a king, a beautiful opera singer and a
dog with eyes as big as saucers.
“This is truly magical entertainment, a beautifully crafted show.” - The Stage
Treasure Island
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Synopsis: An old and menacing sea captain, Billy Bones, tells Young
Jim Hawkins to keep an eye out for a man with one leg who’s
looking for the treasure map of Captain John Flint. When that man
finally appears, Bones entrusts the map to Jim’s safekeeping before collapsing.
Jim shows the map to Dr. Livesey and Squire Trelawney, and they excitedly decide to put together a crew to collect
Captain Flint’s haul from Skeleton Island. Pirates being pirates, the untrustworthy crew begin to plot a mutiny. Lucky for
Jim, he and John Silver have begun to forge an unlikely friendship. When the crew lands on Skeleton Island, Jim runs into
Ben Gunn, a crazy rhyming pirate from Captain Flint’s original crew, who has been marooned for three years.
Meanwhile, having managed to return to the boat, Jim is forced to do things he never thought himself capable of.
Luckily, the pirates’ greed and the help of Silver lead Jim to safety, and the treasure. In the end, Jim learns what it really
means to live a pirate’s life.
80
Treasure Island
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Synopsis: The death of an old pirate lands a young boy in the middle of an adventure. The
boy follows a group of pirates in search of treasure, never imagining that the young boy will
be the one to save all of their lives!
Vincent Kartheiser and Gerald Drake. Photo by Giannetti Studios.
“What a wonderful tale this is. From the Admiral Benbow Inn…we have a cast of characters and a story that
tickles the adventure fantasies in all of us.”
Tremendously Tall Tales
Playwright: Patty Lynch
65 pgs. 5 Actors
Synopsis: Tremendously Tall Tales is a collection of four beloved
American folk tales: Paul Bunyan the Lumberjack, Mike Fink the
River Roarer, John Henry the Railroad Man, and Johnny Appleseed
the Planter of Orchards. The frame of Tales is a story of a rag tag
theater troupe crisscrossing the Midwest at the beginning of the
century, called Eddie B. Brown’s All-Star Yokels. Tales is full of pratfalls,
sight gags, and hat-tricks in the hilarious physical style of vaudeville.
Douglas Neithercott, William Phillipp, and David Barrow. Photo by Steve Wewerka.
81
Trouble
Synopsis: Trouble, a toddler, and his Mum spend a lot of time in the kitchen together. He
has a vivid imagination, and when Mum suggests going shopping, Trouble’s imagination
takes flight. This tale uses music and puppets to celebrate children’s play, and much of
the story is told through non-verbal communication.
Illustrated by Will Hayes.
The Troubles: Children of Belfast
Music: Alan Shorter
Synopsis: This original production is based on the real-life struggle in Northern
Ireland, and deals with the issue of civil rights. In the Protestant and Catholic ghettos
of Belfast, men, women, and children awaken from their night’s sleep with the
acceptance that they will live (or die) today…they will feel hate, sorrow, and
confusion …for there is no true peace in Northern Ireland. The play paints a
powerful portrait of children in conflict.
82
Ukrainian Tales
Synopsis: The Bandurist, a central figure in Ukrainian folk culture, entertains, informs, and inspires people of his village.
First, he tells a story of Pan Kotsky, a very fat cat. One day, his owner abandoned Pan Kotsky in the forest because he did
not do any work. The fox decided that she would like to marry Pan Kotsky, so she does. The other animals in the forest
are curious who this cat is, so one day they decide to hold a meal for the fox and him to attend. The fox tells the other
animals that they must hide because Pan Kotsky is so ferocious. However, Pan Kotsky sees the boar’s tail and thinks it is
a mouse, so he pounces on it. All the other animals think he is attacking, and they run away in fear. From then on, Pan
Kotsky has the reputation of being the fiercest animal in all of Ukraine.
Then the Bandurist tells the tale of The Chatterbox. This is a story of a man that has something to hide, with a wife that
can’t keep a secret. The end result is funny tale that has many tongue-in-cheek moments.
“Ukrainian Tales is original and consistently enjoyable.” –The Minneapolis Star
The Velveteen Rabbit
Author: Margery Williams
Synopsis: A boy adores the stuffed rabbit he received as a Christmas gift. When the boy
becomes sick, the rabbit gives him love and makes the boy well. In return for his good
deed, a fairy grants the Velveteen Rabbit life.
“[The Velveteen Rabbit] is a sweet but seldom sugary tale of the transforming power of love.”
–Minneapolis Star Tribune
83
The Velveteen Rabbit
Author: Margery Williams
27 pgs. 2 actors/puppeteers
Audience recommendation: 5 +
Synopsis: Jamie receives a Velveteen Rabbit for Christmas. As one of his many
toys the Rabbit is thrown into the full toy cupboard. The Velveteen Rabbit is
snubbed by other more expensive or mechanical toys; the latter of which fancy
From the Speeltheatre Holland production.
themselves real. From the Skin Horse, the Rabbit learns that real is not how you
are made; rather, a toy becomes real if its owner really and truly loves it. When Jamie's china dog is misplaced, the
Velveteen Rabbit takes the place as Jamie's constant companion. Even though the Rabbit becomes shabby, Jamie loves
him no matter what.
Jamie falls ill with scarlet fever and becomes too ill to play for a very long time. Upon his recovery, he is sent to the
seaside on doctor's orders. Jamie wishes to take the Rabbit with him, but his doctor forbids him to take the germ-laden
toy. Not only can he not take the Rabbit, but the doctor says it must be burned along with all the nursery toys in order to
disinfect the nursery. While awaiting the bonfire, in which the Velveteen Rabbit will be burned, the Rabbit cries a real
tear. This tear brings forth the Nursery Magic Fairy. The Rabbit thinks he was real before, but the fairy tells him he was
only real to Jamie. She flies him to the woods, where he realizes that he is a real rabbit at last and runs to join the other
rabbits in the wild.
Visiting Grandad
22 pgs. 2 male
Synopsis: Little Jack was sent to Grandad Jack’s house while his Mum went to work. Little Jack was certainly grumpy,
‘cause at Grandad’s house there’s nothing to do – or so he thought. When Grandad Jack reveals he is a pirate, he and
Little Jack decide to find where Wildman Jacko hid Grandad’s watch, and the adventure begins! Little Jack realizes
“inside I’m a pirate not just a boy, just like my Grandad Jack.”
“...a tale with charm, humor, and real feeling.” – The Stage, UK
84
Walking the Tightrope
Originally produced by New Perspectives, UK, in 2000
Synopsis: “Every year right at the end of summer just before the leaves
turn brown and fall from the trees, Esme comes to stay with her Nanna
and Grandad…” But this year something is different; Nanna Queenie is
gone. Though Grandad and Esme do the fun activities they usually do,
things aren’t the same without Nanna Queenie. Grandad can’t bring
himself to say that Nanna has died, so he explains that Nanna has joined
the circus. “She looked like an ordinary woman, but inside beat the heart
of a tightrope walker.”
Wayne Robson and Sharmila Dey. Photo by John Launer.
“The story is a clever blend of the familiar reality of family love and the fantasy that many kids have had of
running off to join the circus.” –Now Magazine
“Walking the Tightrope is ambitious children’s theatre…The play walks its own tightrope between being
lighthearted and energetic enough to keep the kids interested, and giving its subject matter the emotional
weight it requires.” –Eye Weekly
Winner of the 2009 Dora Mavor Moore Award for Theatre Direct’s Outstanding Production and Outstanding
Performance in Theatre for Young Audiences
Whiter Than Snow
Originally produced by Birmingham Repertory, UK, in 2006
Synopsis: Meet Frieda and the Frantz family, the world-famous travelling performers of the best Snow White story
you’ll ever see. But there’s a problem, Snow White has run off with the Prince! Just when it looks like the final curtain’s
about to fall, the perfect leading lady turns up hiding amongst the mothballs. The show will go on, however, perfection is
not always what it seems…This witty, insightful re-telling of the Snow White story takes you on a journey through
dangerous and shifting landscapes, daring you to go beyond the fairytale.
“Witty and hugely entertaining…exceptional, thought-provoking theatre with universal appeal.”
-The Herald, Scotland
85
The Wind in the Willows
Author: Kenneth Grahame
Synopsis: Mr. Mole had no idea when he scurried out of his cozy underground home on a
bright spring day, what marvelous adventures and good friends the day would bring.
Inspired by the new season, the Mole is determined to leave his reclusive life behind and
explore the world above ground. Mole’s explorations lead him to discover the River Bank,
Wild Wood, Toad Hall, and even catch a glimpse of the Wide World. More importantly, he
finds new friends: the dependable Water Rat, wise Old Badger, and the notorious Mr. Toad.
David Fenly and John Middleton.
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
Author: L. Frank Baum
Synopsis: Follow Dorothy and her loyal companions – a scarecrow stuffed with straw,
a tin woodsman, a cowardly lion and many others – on their adventures through Oz,
the Emerald City and beyond.
“Thomas W. Olson gives [The Wonderful Wizard of Oz] a turn-of-the-century
Americana slant, putting it into a time of fierce patriotism and exploration of
the Wild West. …This Oz never descends into the land of Nod and instead is an
invigorating take on a time-worn classic.”
Illustrated by Mark Chikinelli.
-St. Paul Pioneer Press
86
Wondrous Tales of Old Japan
Playwright: David Furumoto
33 pgs. 2 female, 3 male (29 characters total, doubled)
Synopsis: Wondrous Tales of Old Japan is a collection of amazing Japanese folk tales
including worlds where ogres clash with heroes who are born from giant peaches,
fishermen fall in love with dragon princesses, and magical dogs reincarnate. The tales
include Momotaro, The Peach Boy; Urashimataro, The Enchanted Fisherman; Yuki Onna,
The Snow Woman, and Hanasaka Jiji, The Old Man That Made the Trees Bloom.
“…Wondrous Tales of Old Japan takes audiences to a place of shared imagination both exotic and familiar.
The stories are funny, tender and amazing.” –Aberdeen American News
Young Jane Eyre
Author: Charlotte Bronte
Run Time: 2 hours
Synopsis: Though an orphan, Jane Eyre is a spirited girl who loves learning and is
determined to make her way in the world. At the age of 10, she finds herself sent away from
her uncaring aunt’s home and thrust into the strange and harsh world of Lowood School.
There, Jane is confronted with meager living conditions: little food, somber clothing, and
strict rules. At first, she only finds joy in school books, but then she comes to know a kind
teacher, Miss Temple, and a gentle classmate, Helen. It is through these companions that
young Jane Eyre’s life is enriched. Many joys are discovered in her friendships. But above all,
Jane learns to cherish life and look without fear towards her future.
Raina Brody, Randy Latimer, and Pamela Orem. Photo by Giannetti Studios.
“Marisha Chamberlain’s script remains close enough to the novel to retain the story’s captivating strength,
but the play isn’t so wordy that it might lose a ten-year-old’s attention.” – Minnesota Daily
87
Zagazoo
Author: Quentin Blake
Originally produced by Nottingham Playhouse, UK, in 2003
Synopsis: One day, a package arrives for George and Bella. Opening it,
the seemingly clueless duo discovers a little pink creature named
Zagazoo. The couple is thrilled and spends happy days throwing
Zagazoo from one to the other. Then, one day the parents awaken to
find that Zagazoo has morphed into a screeching baby vulture. Each
Illustration by Bethany Cynthia Knowles-Thompson
day, Zagazoo continues to change into a new creature, including a
mud-tracking warthog, a fire-breathing dragon, and a wailing bat. Zagazoo then turns into a hairy creature that gets
bigger and hairier and stranger every day. He finally turns into young man with perfect manners who falls in love with a
young woman. When Zagazoo and his beloved go to tell his parents that they wish to marry, they find that George and
Bella have changed into a pair of pelicans. Isn’t life amazing!
The royalty fee includes permission to make copies of the perusal script for your cast. Requires separate underlying rights from
AP Watt Ltd.
88
Student Plays
These scripts were originally developed for Seattle Children’s Theatre’s Drama School Summer Season, an
acclaimed program in which student actors and theatre professionals come together to produce polished plays.
The Summer Season scripts, inspired by classic works, were specifically written for students in grades 4 through
12 to develop acting and other theatrical skills.
The Royalty Fee for all SCT Drama School Summer Season Plays:
Each play has an approximate run time of 50-60 minutes.
All photos in this section are from the Seattle Children’s Theatre Drama School Summer Season © Chris Bennion.
As You Like It
Author: William Shakespeare
Editor: Don Fleming
55 pgs. 5 female, 10 male (25 parts doubled)
Synopsis: A tale of outlandish sibling rivalry, private love affairs, and secret identities. In this play
“all the world’s a stage” ending with a joyous group wedding.
Dracula
Author: Bram Stoker
Playwright: Don Fleming
Synopsis: Based on Bram Stoker’s dark tale, this faithful, fast-moving
adaptation tells the story of Dracula’s ultimate demise. The play
begins with the arrival of Jonathon Harker at the Transylvania home of
Count Dracula. Unaware of Dracula’s evil and bloody lifestyle, Harker
facilitates the sale of a London estate to the Count, leaving England
exposed to the reign of terror Dracula has planned. Dracula settles in
at his new home, primed to find his next victim, Mina Harker,
Jonathan’s wife. Meanwhile, Harker, having been left by Dracula to suffer the appetite of the horrible Transylvanian
creatures, finally escapes from the Count’s lair and struggles to return home in time to stop the evil Dracula before it’s
too late. Back in London, Dracula attacks Mina, but somehow she manages to resist the lure of her new vampire
impulses. In the final struggle, it is Mina herself who saves the day by driving a stake through Dracula’s heart. All those
once possessed by Count Dracula are now finally free, reuniting Jonathon and Mina once again.
89
Dracula: Origins
Playwright: Don Fleming
Synopsis: Vlad, a prince of Transylvania, struggles to keep his poor, mountainous land
free from the clutches of Bazajet, the cruel and conniving Sultan of the Ottoman
Empire. When Vlad’s father, Drac (the Dragon) dies fighting in battle, Vlad becomes
ruler of Transylvania. He is now known as Dracula (son of the dragon). Due to the
clever intrigues of the Turkish Sultan, Vlad finds himself forced to accept single combat
with Kudret ad-Hem, the great Turkish warrior who killed his father. Knowing he
cannot defeat Kudret, he persuades his wife, Mircea, to lead him to a cave of witches.
The witches grant him strength, supernatural abilities, and freedom from death, by
transforming him into a nosferatu, an undead vampire. Armed with his newfound
power, Vlad meets Kudret ad-Hem in combat. After Vlad wounds Kudret, his vampiric
thirst for blood overpowers him and he bites open Kudret’s throat to drink his blood.
Both Turks and Transylvanians flee in terror. Mircea rejects Vlad as a monster, and falls to her death when he tries to
embrace her. As the play ends, Dracula is left isolated in the Transylvanian mountains, facing a lonely immortality, and
the witches celebrate the evil they have let loose into the world.
Gulliver’s Travels
Author: Jonathon Swift
Editor: Don Fleming
Synopsis: In this classic societal satire, we meet Doctor Lemuel
Gulliver who has just discovered he has a grown son. In an attempt to
get to know him, they settle in at the Star Tavern so Lemuel can
recount his life story. Gulliver’s journeys took him to strange and
distant lands. He encountered tiny Lilliputians, and visited
Brobdingnag, the land of giants. From there, he traveled to Laputa,
a floating island devoted to the arts and academics, though inhabited
by residents who are out of touch with reality. In Laguda and
Struddlebrug, he encountered singing beggars and senile immortals. In Gulliver’s fourth and final journey, he found a
land inhabited by intelligent, speaking horses called Houhynhms. At the end of his travels, Gulliver lived the life of a
recluse, speaking only to the horses in his stable. However, he now vows to teach his son the way of the Houhynhms.
90
Macbeth
Editor: Don Fleming
Synopsis: Macbeth, Shakespeare’s bloodiest tragedy, tells the
story of a Scottish Army general who receives a prophecy from
three witches–he will one day be the king of Scotland. Through
Lady Macbeth’s persuasion and his own ambitious thoughts,
Macbeth murders King Duncan and seizes the throne for himself.
He then begins a reign of tyranny, and continues to commit more
murders to protect himself. When the witches tell of more
prophesies and Macbeth sees apparitions, it is the beginning of
his demise. In a final battle with his rivals, Macbeth is beheaded and
a new man, Malcolm, is crowned king.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Editor: Don Fleming
Synopsis: A Midsummer Night’s Dream is one of
Shakespeare’s most popular love-entwined comedies.
Demetrius and Lysander both want Hermia but she only has
eyes for Lysander. Bad news is, Hermia's father wants
Demetrius for a son-in-law. On the outside is Helena, whose
unreturned love burns hot for Demetrius. Hermia and
Lysander plan to flee from the city under cover of darkness
but are pursued by an enraged Demetrius (who is himself pursued by an enraptured Helena). In the forest, unbeknownst
to the mortals, Oberon and Titania (King and Queen of the faeries) are having a spat over a servant boy. The plot twists
up when Oberon's head mischief-maker, Puck, runs loose with a flower which causes people to fall in love with the first
thing they see upon waking. Throw in a group of laborers preparing a play for the Duke's wedding (one of whom is given
a donkey's head and Titania for a lover by Puck) and the complications become fantastically funny.
91
Much Ado About Nothing
Editor: Don Fleming
Synopsis: Intertwining honor, shame, and court politics with hilarity and multiple
marriages, the tale begins with the meeting of Hero, the daughter of a nobleman,
and Claudio, a soldier and nobleman. They instantly fall in love and decide to be
married. When Claudio is tricked into believing Hero has been unfaithful to him,
he publicly accuses her of lechery and abandons her at the altar. Hero and her
family pretend she has died of shock and grief until the truth comes out. The
villains are finally found and arrested, and everyone learns that Hero is innocent,
including Claudio, who grieves for her. As punishment, Hero’s father arranges for
Claudio to marry her “cousin.” At the wedding, it is revealed to Claudio that Hero
is his actual bride. Hero’s cousin, Beatrice, is swept up in the joy and agrees to
marry Claudio’s friend, Benedick, and everyone has a merry dance.
The Odyssey
Author: Homer
Editor: Don Fleming
63 pgs. 5 female, 7 male (30 characters total, doubled)
Synopsis: The adventures of Odysseus have stood at the center
of classical literature for centuries. This is the epic story of a great
warrior who wanders the world, but also a tale of a loving
husband's struggle to protect an enduring union with his faithful
wife.
92
The Tempest
Editor: Don Fleming
Synopsis: Prospero, the duke of Milan, is a powerful
magician banished from Italy and cast to sea by his
usurping brothers, Antonio and Alonso, the king of Naples.
Prospero lives on the island with his daughter, Miranda, his
servant monster, Caliban, and his helpful spirit, Ariel, who is
his chief magical agent. A ship carrying Italian royalty,
including Antonio and Alonso, crashes on Prospero’s island.
Miranda and Ferdinand, Alonso’s son, meet and instantly
fall in love. After foiled murder plots, a wedding, and the re-uniting of the Italian mariners, the play resolves when
Prospero reveals to Alonso the site of Ferdinand and Miranda playing chess. Prospero then invites Alonso and his
company to stay the night before everyone returns to Italy the next day, where Prospero will reassume his dukedom.
Upon his departure, Prospero vows never to use magic again.
Twelfth Night
Editor: Don Fleming
Synopsis: Twelfth Night is a comedy involving love and deception.
Orsino, a nobleman, pines for the love of Lady Olivia, who will not
marry, as she is mourning for her dead brother. Meanwhile, there
has been a terrible shipwreck, in which Viola has been swept
ashore. Certain that her twin brother, Sebastian, has drowned,
Viola disguises herself as a man and begins to look for work. She is
hired by Orsino and soon becomes his favorite page. Viola falls in
love with Orsino. When Viola (as her male alter ego Cesario)
delivers a love message to Olivia from Orsino, Olivia instantly falls
in love with Cesario. As others trying to court Olivia discover Olivia’s attraction to Cesario, they challenge “him” to a
duel. It is then that Sebastian appears on the scene. Sebastian gets into a scuffle, Olivia enters and, thinking Sebastian is
Cesario, asks him to marry her. Viola (as Cesario) and Orsino come to Olivia’s house and, after some confusion, Sebastian
appears and all is revealed. The brother and sister are joyfully reunited, and Orsino asks Viola to marry him.
93

Honus and Me - Plays for Young Audiences

Transcription

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