The Rime of the Ancient Mariner Not exactly a laugh a minute, this one. But we do manage to salvage a happier ending for this particular script. Cast of 30 (easily adapted up or down) Duration around 35 minutes not including the music suggestions Despite its melancholy tone, there are some lighter moments … if you look carefully enough! Sample Text: Music 10 Thriller Michael Jackson (Crew performing macabre routine – transforming into ghouls) Narrator: Hey! Wait a minute. (Holding up script) According to this there were only 2 ghouls on that ship! (Enter two ghouls, Spectre-Woman and her skeletal Death-mate) Spectre-Woman: (Hissing, angrily) That would be me Death-mater: And me! Spectre-Woman: Who are these wretched phonies? Narrator: I do apologise! They just got a little carried away! Death-mate: I’ll say! Worst set of impersonators I’ve seen since, since Spectre-Woman: That shockingly bad karaoke we went to last time we were in town! Death-mate: Ugh! Worst night of my life. To end up there on a Saturday night! Spectre-Woman: Yes, a fate worse than death! Well, we should know! Narrator: (To Readers) Indeed. May we have a description of this lady, please? Reader 3: Her lips were red, her looks were free, Reader 4: Her locks were yellow as gold: Reader 5: Her skin was as white as leprosy, Reader 6: The Night-mare LIFE-IN-DEATH was she, Spectre-Woman: (Snatching line from Reader 7) Who thicks man’s blood with cold. Reader 7: Hey! That’s my line! Spectre-Woman: (To Reader 7, menacingly) Want to take me on, little reader? You are a reader, I gather. Not a reaper! In the case of the latter I’d be more than happy for you to join our little team! Reader 7: (Squirming in fright) Oh no! That’s quite all right! Death-mate: (Spitting) Pathetic, aren’t they? (Advancing on crew, who all run away) They couldn’t say boo to a goose, let alone an albatross! (To Ancient Mariner) Speaking of which, isn’t that what you have hanging around your neck?

Aladdin Class Play or Assembly Aladdin. This story could almost have been called A Tale of Two Genies – one that could be summoned via a lamp, the other by a ring. Yes, there was a poor lad called Aladdin who, under the instruction of an evil magician, found the lamp and used it to make himself rich; and then lost everything – all because he didn’t tell ‘his princess’ where his money had come from. But none of this would have happened … without the genies – masters themselves not just in the way of magic but in the art of certain social skills – namely good manners and the importance of sharing one’s good fortune – particularly relevant at Christmas - The emboldened text indicates relevance to Christmas but can be omitted for the rest of the year. The key message behind this script is the importance of sharing. Duration 15 minutes without the inclusion of the music suggestions Cast of 15 Sample Text Music 12 You Ain’t Seen Nothin Yet – Bachman-Turner Overdrive (Enter Genie 2) Genie 2: You called, master? (Aladdin and his mother both jump in surprise) Genie 2: Your wish is my command! Aladdin: Really? Well, in that case … (Pauses). Wait. I’ll make you a list! (Aladdin marches Genie 2 off stage, with his mother following behind) Narrator: So. Let us see how Aladdin sees fit to enjoy his new fortune. Music 13 Money Money Money – Abba (Enter Aladdin in rich clothing, arm in arm with the Princess, followed by the Sultan and Aladdin’s mother, with a weary Genie 2 bringing up the rear) Narrator: Well, well, well! That didn’t take him long! Fine clothing, a fine wife (pauses, then points) not to mention a very fine palace over there! Sultan: (Happily) Hasn’t my princess done well! And just when I was about to give up on her ever finding a husband! Narrator: (Aside) Strikes me, it’s Aladdin who’s done well (pauses) and all credit to Genie 2: (Yawning) Me! When I said ‘Your wish is my command’ I hadn’t reckoned on (pauses) well, I lost count of the number of things he commanded. Narrator: Commanded? Genie 2: Oh yes! Not one single please or thank you! (Sighing) That’s the youth of today for you! Narrator: What a bad example – for today’s youth, I mean. I am surprised. You’d have thought Genie 2: (Interrupting) Yes, I know. Coming from such poverty and all.

The Old Curiosity Shop – a Reader’s Theatre Adaptation of Charles Dickens’ Novel Cast of 6, Duration around 20 minutes Sample Text: Narrator: Good morning! Grandfather: And a very good morning to you! Welcome to the Old Curiosity Shop! Tell me, what priceless items of curiosity can I interest you in, today, sir? Quilp: (Sneering) Priceless? I’d say just about anything you have to say is priceless! Nell: What a vindictive, cruel man you are, Mr. Quilp! Kit: In such stark contrast to you, dear Nell! Quilp: Ooh, I’m beginning to feel nauseous, already! Dick: What is it about pure goodness that you find so hard to stomach, Quilp? Quilp: Just that! Pure goodness – ugh! Enough to make anyone feel nauseous! Grandfather: To you, maybe, Quilp! But then, thankfully, most of the rest of mankind don’t think and feel like you do. Quilp: You know, for once, I am going to have to agree with you. I am in a league of my own (pauses) and proud of it! Nell: How can you be proud of (pauses) Quilp: (Interrupting) Let me help you! Evil or just plain badness, will they do? Swiveller: We all know full well the depths of your depravity! Quilp: (Gleefully) Ooh! I like it! Do go on! This adaptation of Dickens’ novel was written for a small cast suitable for Reader’s Theater or guided reading and is intended as an introduction, facilitating access to a wonderful novel which, time allowing, should be read in its entirety. A synopsis is provided, which gives a sufficient understanding of the plot in order to enjoy their assigned characters. The script has been given a different ending –happier and more optimistic than that of the original novel. This twist was done in order to give certain a second chance – even if their redemption is only partial and possibly temporary – it does, after all, take time to change from bad to good! It seemed only fair that, if Dick Swiveller was given this chance at redemption, so too should Quilp. But maybe that’s for others to decide. The writer prefers a happy ending, which is rather more typical of Dickens’ other works, and feels there is a lot to be said for giving everyone a second chance. This is one of a collection of scripts based on the novels of Charles Dickens. The following are all available both as ‘performance plays’ (with music, stage directions etc) and Reader’s Theatre scripts. • Oliver Twist • Great Expectations • David Copperfield • A Tale of Two Cities • Nicholas Nickleby • Bleak House • Hard TImes

Hard Times adapted to Readers Theatre from the original Charles Dickens Novel Cast of 12 Duration around 15 minutes Sample Text: Narrator: And so, we come to Dickens’ shortest novel! Cast: (Cumulative sigh of relief) Narrator: But you needn’t think I’m going to let you off that lightly! Cast: (Grunts, mutterings) Narrator: No. We still have a story to tell. Mr. Gradgrind: And characters to portray. As they were, of course. Nothing fanciful Louisa: (Groaning) Or even, dare I say it, imaginative. Perish the thought! (Sighing) Father, I thought we had dealt with this! Sissy: We have! All of us! But old habits die hard, am I right, Mr Gradgrind? Tom: (Excitedly) Die Hard, did I hear you say? Oh, I’m definitely up for that! Blackpool: Hey! Calm down, fella! I don’t think Sissy meant that amount of action! Mr. Sleary: What a shame! I’ve always said a lot needs shaking up around here! Bounderby: And some of us don’t wish this to turn into a total circus! Harthouse: (Sarcastically) Oh very droll! Though coming from you, it was bound-to-be! Bounderby: Touche, Mr. Harthouse! Always trying to out-do me! You’re right, Miss Sissy – some habits do die hard, very hard. Mrs. Peglar: Well, we are going to try to put things to right, today, are we not? Rachel: Yes, I thought that was the whole point of this tale. Mrs. Sparsit: What, changing the way people behave? Narrator: Indeed, Mrs. Sparsit. Mrs. Sparsit: You mean, setting our houses in order? Oh, I’m first-class at that! Narrator: (Sighing) You may be a first-rate housekeeper, Mrs. Sparsit. But I do believe there are certain ways of yours that we could happily do without? Bounderby: Like learning to mind your own business! We could start with that one. Mrs. Sparsit: (Exclaiming) So that the likes of you could get away with Bounderby: (Interrupting) Being a little economic with the truth? Well, yes, I suppose Mrs. Peglar: I’ll second that! Fancy denying your own mother? Tom: And making up all those lies about your childhood? Rachel: Well, that’s rich, coming from you who didn’t think twice about framing my friend, Stephen Blackpool, for something he never did! Tom: Someone had to take the blame and, well, he was just a Hand! Narrator: A Hand, you say? Meaning? Mr. Gradgrind: Ooh allow me. I just love definitions! This is one of a collection: • Oliver Twist • Great Expectations • David Copperfield • A Tale of Two Cities • Nicholas Nickleby • Bleak House • The Old Curiosity Shop All adapted to Readers Theater – most also available as performance plays. Christmas novellas are currently in play format (will shortly be revised to Reader’s Theater – in the meantime, easily ‘tweaked’!): • A Christmas Carol • The Battle of Life • The Chimes • The Cricket on the Hearth • The Haunted Man and the Ghost’s Bargain

A Collection of Seven Fairy Tales, adapted to Reader’s Theater, originally written by Brothers Grimm, and given a wee twist by Sue Russell. *As explained below, these scripts are available separately – but together, this collection offers a 60% discount. Rumpelstiltskin Rapunzel Little Red Riding Hood Hansel and Gretel Cinderella Sleeping Beauty Snow White These plays each have a cast of 6. Reading time varies between 10 – 15/20 minutes. With synopsis, teaching input, discussion and suggestions for further activities. *These scripts are available as separate plays (without Readers Theater adaption i.e. with music suggestions and stage directions). Sample Text from Rumpelstilskin: Narrator: Good morning. And welcome to one of our favourite fairy tales Rumpelstiltskin: Rumpelstiltskin! That’s me! Narrator: A veritable fiend! Villain! Crook! Rumpelstiltskin: (Interrupting) Er, wait a minute! Are we talking about the same fairy tale? Narrator: Well, I think so. Weren’t you the horrible little Rumpelstiltskin: (Interrupting) Could you be just a tiny bit less offensive? I mean, ‘horrible’, ‘little’. Aren’t there any rules on political correctness here? Narrator: (Apologetically) Oh I’m sorry. You’re right. I’ll try not to follow this script I have here, quite so much Rumpelstiltskin: Here! Let me take a look at that! (Snorting) Pah! As I thought! Those Brothers Grimm! The way they described their characters! They’d never get away with it today! ‘Little man’ indeed! How would they like to be vertically challenged? Narrator: You know, I do sympathise with you. I think you have a right to feel the way you do! Rumpelstiltskin: Well, thank you Narrator: But that doesn’t completely excuse your behaviour. Rumpelstiltskin: (Exploding) My behaviour? What about that of the king and the girl’s own father?

Nicholas Nickleby Panto This is an adaptation of the Nicholas Nickleby Play – converting the original script that I wrote into one that could be used at Christmas, as a pantomime. The villainous Ralph; the ridiculous, Panto Dame-like Mrs. Nickleby; the cheery, comic contribution of the Cheeryble Brothers – all seemed to offer the ideal opportunity to write such an adaptation. This script includes most of the normal pantomime ‘features’ apart from the normal ‘singing element’ - the playlist suggestions (music that is used to introduce each scene) could be adapted to include some singing by the cast. At the time of writing this script, November 2020, England along with a number of other countries, is in Lockdown due to COVID 19 and sadly, singing is one of those ‘prohibited activities’. Hopefully, singing will return in the future but for now, this seems like the best option. Cast of 30 Duration – around 90 minutes. This is only a rough estimate as it depends how much music is included. Sample Text: Music – I Love to Laugh – Mary Poppins Scene VII London Narrator: Now, this is the kind of company you want to keep – and work for! (Enter the two Cheeryble brothers, Charles and Ned) Charles: Welcome, sir! Ned: Yes, a warm welcome to anyone who steps within our workplace! Narrator: And a thriving business it is, too! Charles: Only as good as its workers. Narrator: And I’m guessing, they’re more than happy to work for an employer like you! Charles: Oh, don’t be forgetting my brother, Ned! We have an equal partnership, happily going under the name of Charles & Ned: (Together) The Cheeryble Brothers! Narrator: You certainly are a pair of cheerful chappies! Charles: We are that, all right! And, looking on from the wings, it did occur to us that er, well, how shall I put this? Ned: Let me say it for you! This script of yours is just a little on the serious side? Narrator: Well, of course it is. Charles Dickens may have been many things Charles: (Interrupting) But not a stand-up comedian? Narrator: Certainly not! And thank goodness for that! Way too many of them around today, if you ask me! Ned: You think so? Hmm. Well, it just so happens Narrator: Oh, please don’t tell me that’s what you two do, in your spare time? Charles: Not just in our spare time, as it so happens! We have quite a reputation Charles & Ned: (Together) Us Cheeryble Brothers! Narrator: (Groaning) Oh no! (Waving script in the air) This certainly wasn’t in the script! Charles: And what a dull, dreary script it is! Ned: We’re going to change that Sample of Music Suggestions – to introduce each scene Money Money Money – Abba Food Glorious Food – Oliver We Don’t Need No Education – Pink Floyd Fashion – David Bowie All Night Long – Lionel Ritchie The Boys are Back in Town – Thin Lizzy I Love to Laugh – from Mary Poppins Love is in the Air – Tom Jones Who are you? The Who

Bleak House Play adaptation Did someone, somewhere, once say ‘Where there’s a will there’s a way’? … Wrong! They obviously hadn’t read Bleak House and the case of Jarndyce and Jarndyce! This script can be used by a small group of five or a whole class of 30. With the job of narration shared by an extremely *non-neutral narrator and co-presenter who is the story’s heroine, this is a fun account of one very complicated story – don’t worry, it has been simplified! *P.S. I hope nobody in the legal profession reads this – I’ve heard slander can be costly! Cast Group of 5 or Cast of 20 - 30 There are 30 speakers in total, divided up between seven scenes. There are 13 named characters plus 6 lawyers (in the first scene) and the Narrator – i.e. 20 speakers in all. So the actual cast size is somewhere between 20 and 30 – though this number can be easily adjusted by e.g. reducing or increasing the number of lawyers – I have used 6 lawyers in the first scene just to round up the total number of speakers to 30. However, the script could be read by a group of 5, obviously adapting different roles in each scene. Duration: Around 35 minutes

The Haunted Man and the Ghost’s Bargain Play – an adaptation of the Charles Dickens Novella Cast of 14 plus Duration: Around 30 minutes The lesson of the story is summed up by the Narrator: Maybe had we, like Mr. Redlaw, been presented with the chance of losing all mental anguish, then we may have been tempted to make the same choice as he did. But as I hope we have learned from his experience, some of the best moments in our lives come strangely from what we might see as things we would rather forget. We learn from such moments how to appreciate what has gone before or after; and so we come to understand that we need the whole picture of our lives, not just the good bits, to make us appreciate and realise what we have and who we are. Sample Text Mrs. Tetterby: (To husband) And to think I could have held hopes of a happy future with you! (Wailing) Why oh why did I ever think it would be a good idea to marry you? What possible gain did I hope to achieve? Biggest mistake of my life! Mr. Tetterby: And for me, too! You needn’t think yours was the greater sacrifice! I was undoubtedly short-changed! (Aside) Just look at this wife of mine! Talk about past your sell-by date! Fat, ageing. I should find myself another woman! Mrs. Tetterby: (Aside) Look at that husband of mine! Common-looking, small, stooped, going bald. He really doesn’t have a lot going for him! (To husband) And as for these children – they will be the death of me! And that might be sooner rather than later. Mr. Tetterby: Poor people like us shouldn’t have children – given how little pleasure they give us! Narrator: (Gasping) Are these really the same people we saw before? (Sighing) It seems we need nothing short of a miracle to reverse this unfortunate situation. (Enter Millie) (Everyone passes a hand across their foreheads; and suddenly start smiling again) Narrator: Did I just say a miracle? Could Millie be our guardian angel? Judging by the total change in atmosphere, I’d say a very definite yes! Mr. Tetterby: (Exclaiming) What was I thinking? What madness came upon me to speak to you, Sophia, my little woman, so? Mrs. Tetterby: No, but it is I who should beg your forgiveness! How could I say such things? What was I thinking? Mr. Tetterby: But, what state of mind was it to make me behave in such a way as to break your heart, with such hurtful words? This is one of a series of plays based on Charles Dickens’ books, What the Dickens! • A Christmas Carol • Oliver Twist • David Copperfield • Great Expectations • A Tale of Two Cities • The Battle of Life • The Chimes • The Cricket on the Hearth

Peter and the Wolf – an adaptation, suitable for Readers Theatre, Guided Reading or as a Short Play Cast of 10 Narrator Peter Grandfather Duck Little Bird Cat Wolf Hunters – 1, 2 and 3 Duration: Around 10 minutes not including teaching input and discussion which will add at least another 15 minutes. This script has simple text, suitable for Lower Key Stage II (7 – 10 year olds); and can be just a straightforward reading or ‘instrumentalized’ – as per the original, as explained in the Production Notes. Sample Text Narrator: (Coughing) Well, we are going to try and tell some of that tale (Aside) That’s if this lot let me get a word in edgeways! Peter: So, that’s everyone introduced! Let’s get on with the action! Grandfather: (Grumbling) Always so headstrong! So Narrator: (Interrupting) Yes, you certainly had your work cut out with that one! Grandfather: You can say that again! Never listened to a word I said Peter: Oh, but that’s not true, Gramps! I did listen – it’s just, I er, well Little Bird: Kept forgetting? Cat: (Sarcastically) Bit of a bird brain? Duck: (Angrily) Careful what you say! Wolf: (Snarling) Or? Or what, little duck? Narrator: (Intervening quickly) Now, now! No need for Hunter 1: Violence! Hunter 2: Aggression! Hunter 3: Foul play! Duck: (Repeating) Foul play? I hope not Little Bird: (Interrupting) No, not fowl play! Foul play! With a ‘u’! Narrator: Which is all very interesting, but Grandfather: Look! Whilst you’ve all been twittering on, my grandson has escaped

The Time Machine – H.G. Wells This play can either be used for performance (Class Play or Assembly) Cast of 26 or as a set of guided reading scripts/readers theatre within the class room- 5 scenes – 6 speakers each (with the exception of Scene 4, just 2. Scene I Scientist Home – Dinner Party minus host (awaiting arrival) Scene 2 Meet the Eloi Scene 3 Meet the Morlocks Scene 4 Escape – to the end of the world Scene 5 Scientists Home – Dinner Party plus host Total Reading Time – around 30 minutes This is one of a series of ‘Quickie Classics’ – for those who wish to dip their feet without committing to total immersion! Other such ‘Quickie Classics’ include the works of Charles Dickens (including favourites such as Great Expectations, David Copperfield, A Tale of Two Cities) Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stephenson, Persuasion, Jane Austen and classic stories by Oscar Wilde including The Happy Prince and The Selfish Giant. Sample Text Scene 1 Scientist’s Home – Dinner Party minus host (awaiting arrival) Narrator Friend Mayor Medical Man Psychologist Journalist Narrator: Well, this is all very charming. But where is our host? Friend: Oh, probably still a million years away! Mayor: (Testily, looking at his watch) Well, I for one haven’t all the time in the world! Medical Man: That’s a shame! Psychologist: Did nobody warn you we might have rather a long wait? Journalist: Communication does not seem to be our host’s strong point! Friend: Well, even he cannot be in two places at once! Mayor: How very inconvenient! Medical Man: Well, as a human being, he does have certain limitations! Psychologist: Though these be physical rather than psychological limitations, I would suggest. Journalist: Same difference! Psychologist: Oh, not at all! The mind can take you places where your body could not possibly follow! Journalist: Now, that bit makes sense! Narrator: Yes, it’s a great gift to have an imagination. Journalist: A what? Oh, you mean just making things up as you go along? Yes, that too makes sense to me! Mayor: (Uneasily) I trust your interviews are carried out in a less cavalier manner? Journalist: Oh, they are. Friend: It’s just what follows that Journalist: Has a little fine tuning! Medical Man: Just as well we don’t all operate like that! Psychologist: (Laughing) Particularly in your case! Friend: (Laughing) No, we certainly wouldn’t want you taking ‘any short cuts’ on the operating table!

Persuasion This play can either be used for performance (Class Play or Assembly) Cast of 30 or as a set of guided reading scripts/readers theatre within the classroom- 5 scenes – 6 speakers each Duration Around 20 minutes reading time. Inclusion of discussion time will add on around another 10 minutes. This ‘Quickie Classic’ was written as a precis of the original book into a 30 minute reading/discussion session. The principal characters, guided by a narrator, effectively talk us through the story – with, of course, a few of their own opinions thrown in! Other ‘quickie classics’ in this series include such writers as Charles Dickens (classics and Christmas novellas), Orson Welles (The Time Machine), Robert Lewis Stephenson (Treasure Island) and Oscar Wilde (The Happy Prince, Selfish Giant etc). Sample Text Scene I/Chapter I Background Cast of 6 Narrator Anne Sir Elliot Lady Russell Mr. Shepherd Captain Wentworth Narrator: So, let’s start with a little background to this story entitled Lady Russell: (Interrupting) Persuasion! Narrator: (Huffily) I’d appreciate you not interrupting me, madam. Lady Russell: Oh, but I can tell everyone all there is to know! Narrator: Undoubtedly, madam. But I don’t think anyone here will be in a hurry to take any advice from you. Sir Elliot: Whatever do you mean? I’ll have you know that Lady Russell was my late wife’s greatest friend and I would never hesitate to follow any advice she might give. Narrator: And therein lies the problem! We should always question other’s advice even when it’s totally well intentioned as in the case of Lady Russell here. Anne: Well-intentioned doesn’t make it right, as I discovered to my cost! Capt. Wentworth: But you were just nineteen years of age. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Anne: But taking that advice cost us seven years of being together! Capt. Wentworth: It’s true. We should never have let anything come between us. But that’s water under the bridge now, my dear. Mr. Shepherd: And you weren’t to know you weren’t being given the very best of advice.

Ode to St. George. I wrote this back in 2009 but, typical of me, have just come across it again - on St. George’s Day! Nothing like forward planning! It’s actually part of a St. George’s Day Bundle - over 50 pages including an Assembly On England in Celebration of St. George’s Day; and a set of Guided Reading Scripts covering England’s monarchy, people, places and customs - all very light-hearted and full of our weird and wonderful ways! Anyway, hope you enjoy this poem. One thing about this ‘lockdown’ period is that I’m coming across lots of my old favourite scripts - that I’d forgotten I’ve written! Sample Text: For England is the place to be England is the land of the free. England produced Winnie the Pooh Peter Pan, and Beatrix Potter too. England produced the likes of Will Shakespeare Wordsworth, Rowling and Edward Lear. England has history that goes on forever (Makes up, perhaps, for our crummy weather!) England produced the Beatles, the Stones and the Who And a capital city, London – equaled by few. England serves the very best tea England has health care that is free. England is the place to be England is the land of the free. (All Together) Rule Britannia! St. George’s Day is here. England never shall have Anything to fear!

The Battle of Life – a play based on the original novella by Charles Dickens Cast of 15. Duration around 30 minutes Other plays I have written available off TES based on Charles Dickens’ books are: A Christmas Carol, Oliver Twist, Great Expectations, David Copperfield and A Tale of Two Cities. When I started reading this novella, I was expecting a love story – but The Battle of Life is so much more. It is not just about romantic love but love of a much deeper kind - of sibling love – between two sisters. Not widely read but I loved it! Sample Text: (Sound of music and laughter) (Enter Dr. Jeddler) Narrator: Aha! And one of the jolliest gents you are ever likely to meet! Dr. Jeddler, I was just commenting on The Battle of Life. No doubt you, as a philosopher, have something to say on the matter? Dr. Jeddler: (Laughing) Well, naturally, my good man! Though nothing too profound, you understand! I don’t take any of this stuff too seriously! Narrator: You mean, the stuff of living? (Enter Alfred, briefly) Alfred: Oh, but you should! (Aside to audience) I rather think Dr. Jeddler here may just change a little of that mindset of his during the course of this production! (Exit Alfred) Dr. Jeddler: What’s that? Yes, I thought I heard music! (Enter two musicians, and two sisters, Marion and Grace, dancing, without any inhibition) (Narrator applauds loudly when the music stops and the girls fling themselves to the ground in exhaustion) Narrator: Bravo! That was some display! Though all the better for not being a display, if you see what I mean! Marion: (Laughing) Oh we were most certainly not dancing to an audience! (Spotting audience) Oops! No offence intended to present one! Dr. Jeddler: (Coughing) Ahem! You realise the earliness of the hour? Grace: (Quickly) Oh but father! You haven’t forgotten what day it is? Marion: Somebody’s birthday? Dr. Jeddler: Bah! It’s always somebody’s birthday! What a load of nonsense – another foolish exhibition in this thing called life! (Marion pulls a face) Dr. Jeddler: Which isn’t to say we can’t celebrate the idea of this, this birthday malarkey! (To Narrator) I wouldn’t want you to think I’m some kind of kill joy! It’s just, life is such a farce, the world such a gigantic practical joke. Grace: (Taking his arm) Oh come along, father! Let’s just enjoy the day. Narrator: (To audience) Something tells me this particular philosopher has a rather simplistic view of the world … but one on which he could, nevertheless, speak for hours. Let’s not allow him that freedom! Good for Grace!

Tale of Two Cities Play This is one of a series of plays based on Charles Dickens’ books, What the Dickens! • A Christmas Carol • Oliver Twist • David Copperfield • Great Expectations • A Tale of Two Cities Cast of 15 (30 including crowd in brackets) Duration: Around 25 minutes Sample Text: Judge: (To Dr. Manette) I’m afraid he stands convicted by these two, Madame and Monsieur Defarge (pauses) and you! Dr. Manette: (Gasping) What? What do you mean, me? How can this be? Judge: Are you or are you not Alexandre Manette? Dr. Manette: Well, of course, I am. Everybody here today knows that! Judge: So, can you deny writing (Monsieur Defarge hands letter over to him) this? (Dr. Manette takes the letter, reads it, gasping as he does so, and then sits down in a state of shock) Monsieur Defarge: So, enlighten us, Dr. Manette. What have you just read? (Dr. Manette sits clutching his head, in silence) Madame Defarge: Fairly conclusive evidence, I’d say! Judge: So, for the benefit of the court, I will endeavour to explain the contents of this letter. Let’s just start with where it was found. Monsieur Defarge: In cell One Hundred and Five, North Tower of the Bastille! (Whole courtroom gasps) (Sydney Carton jumps up) Sydney Carton: How can that be? This is false evidence, m’lord! Monsieur Defarge: Oh, I don’t think so, young man! You may be able to work your lawyer-magic back in England, but not here in France! Madame Defarge: Justice will be done! You see if it isn’t! This latest set of scripts, ‘dipping into Dickens’ could be used for upper KSII children (in addition to KS III – as per review below). Review: I can highly recommend Sue Russell’s plays for use with KS3 students. They are wonderful introductions to classic novels – capturing the mood and tone of the original and communicating the essence of plot and characters in a lively and highly accessible way. Students enjoy the vibrant dialogue and find scope for characterisation and the development of dramatic skills by performing them. These plays can be used in English lessons as well as Drama class. Dickens is a wonderful writer, but the sheer length of the novels and complexity of plot lines can be intimidating for students. Sue Russell’s plays are faithful to their originals yet also brilliantly condensed without any loss of key material. Many thanks to my writer-friend Jude Hayland who, when not writing, works as drama teacher and English tutor.

Great Expectations – a play based on the book by Charles Dickens This script is one of a series ‘What the Dickens!’ : • A Christmas Carol • Oliver Twist • David Copperfield • Great Expectations • A Tale of Two Cities Cast of 15 Duration: Around 15 – 20 minutes Suitable from age 10 upwards, this is a set of scripts written with Key Stage III in mind. I will be adding further teaching resources in the near future. It is my aim to make these great classics accessible to young people and adults alike*Scroll down for review. Sample Text: Narrator: This is a tale of (pauses) Great Expectations. But please don’t allow yourselves to be fooled by the title. No. Sadly this is far from a tale of high hopes and their fulfilment. This is a tale that will take you to many dark places where you will meet many dark characters. Where treachery and skulduggery lurk in every corner. Where so-called gentlemen act as complete tyrants (pauses) and where ladies, frankly do not come out much better! (Sound of ‘clanking’ from a blacksmith’s shed) But wait! What is that I hear? Aha! A sound of decency. A bright ray of light shining through all this mirky darkness. (Enter Joe) Joe: (Laughing) Did I hear someone compare my job to something bright and shining? Narrator: (Shaking Joe’s hand) You did indeed! It’s so good to meet you! Joe: And very good to meet you too, my friend! Narrator: Ah, there you go! Warm and welcoming to everyone you meet. Never an unkind thought in your head. Always thinking the best of everyone! Joe: (Smiling) Well, it doesn’t pay to carry bitterness around with you. My wife sadly carries enough for two of us – and look how happy that makes her! (Enter wife) Wife: (Shrieking) Joe? Joe Gargery? Have you not heard me yelling your name this past half hour? Narrator: (Aside to audience) And there I was thinking the ear plugs were to protect his ears from the anvil! Wife: (Rounding on Narrator) And what is your business in these parts? Narrator: And a very good day to you as well, ma’am. I was just saying to your husband Wife: (Interrupting) That good for nothing waste of time! And don’t you go wasting any more of his time! He has work to do! Isn’t that right, Joe Gargery? Joe: If you say so, oh sweetness and light! Wife: Bah! Don’t you go thinking you can sweet-talk your way around me! (Pauses as she looks around) And where’s that other waste of space, my young brother, Pip? Up to no good, no doubt! Narrator: (Sarcastically) How lovely it must be to think so well of everyone around you! Review: These plays can be used in English lessons as well as Drama class. Dickens is a wonderful writer, but the sheer length of the novels and complexity of plot lines can be intimidating for students. Sue Russell’s plays are faithful to their originals yet also

David Copperfield This is one of a series of plays based on Charles Dickens’ books, What the Dickens! • A Christmas Carol • Oliver Twist • David Copperfield • Great Expectations • A Tale of Two Cities Oliver Twist is co-narrated by the narrator and Fagin, to illustrate what life was like in Victorian England. This one, David Copperfield, is co-narrated by the narrator and Charles Dickens, drawing many parallels between his own life and that of David Copperfield. Cast of 15 speaking parts Duration: Around 15 minutes Suitable from age 10 upwards, this is a set of scripts written with Key Stage III in mind. I will be adding further teaching resources in the near future. It is my aim to make these great classics accessible to young people and adults alike*Scroll down for review. Sample Text: Scene 5 Mr. Wickfield’s House (Mr. Wickfield looking old and frail, sitting in chair, with Agnes hovering over him in concern. Uriah Heep stands to the side, looking very pleased with himself, offering Mr. Wickfield one glass of wine after another) Uriah Heep: (Refilling Mr. Wickfield’s glass with wine) There you go, dear Mr. Wickfield. Just say the word! Anything I can do to help! (Enter David, taking glass off Mr. Wickfield and glaring at Uriah Heep) David: I’ll take that, thank you very much! Uriah Heep: (Gasping) What do you think you are doing? David: Saving Mr. Wickfield and his lovely daughter, that’s what (pauses) from you! Uriah Heep: Whatever do you mean? How dare you just flounce back into our lives after waltzing off to Switzerland! Agnes: (Gasping) Ooh, Mr. Heep! David was hardly ‘waltzing off to Switzerland’ out of choice! He’d just lost his beloved wife, Dora! David: Indeed! And without your kind support, as always, Agnes, I would never have made it through that dark time! Mr. Wickfield: Ah, you and Agnes were always so close! Like brother and sister! David: But times have changed (Agnes gasps in horror) Agnes: Have I done something to upset you? David: It’s not what you have done, beloved Agnes! (Turning to Uriah Heep) Just look at what this fiend has been trying to do to your father! Uriah Heep: (Gasping) What do you mean? David: You know perfectly well what I mean! Poisoning him with all this alcohol! Just so that you can help yourself to his daughter! Uriah Heep: (Smugly) There are worse fates than being married to me, I can assure you! David: You think so? Hmm. I think we’ll agree to disagree on that one! Review: Sue Russell’s plays are faithful to their originals yet also brilliantly condensed without any loss of key material.

Oliver Twist – A Play Based on the Novel by Charles Dickens Cast of 15 speaking parts; or Cast of 30 if including non-speaking parts Duration: Around 15 minutes not including song suggestions Oliver Twist, following on from the popular Christmas Carol, is the second in a series of Charles Dickens adaptations – the others being David Copperfield, Great Expectations and A Tale of Two Cities. Suitable from age 10 upwards, this is a set of scripts written with Key Stage III in mind. I will be adding further teaching resources in the near future. It is my aim to make these great classics accessible to young people and adults alike. Whilst sticking to the original story, this one has a much happier ending for everyone; and has Fagin ‘putting our Narrator right’ on what it was actually like to live in Victorian England. Sample Text: (Enter Fagin, marching over to Narrator) Fagin: (Threateningly) Criminal classes, eh? Oh, and I suppose you’d know a lot about what it was like to live in Victorian times, would you? Narrator: (Spluttering) Well, er, now you come to mention it (pauses) no, not really. Fagin: Well, allow me to fill you in. Let’s start with how hard it could be especially if you were poor. Narrator: (Huffily) Well, I’ve no doubt there was social welfare for those who needed it. Fagin: (Exploding) Social welfare? I’ll show you social welfare! Come with me. My, are you going to have your eyes opened! Music 2 – Food Glorious Food Scene 1 The Workhouse (Fagin takes Narrator to one side as workhouse inmates line up, holding bowls and spoons, with Mr. Bumble standing at the front, ladling out the gruel; Oliver is last in line) Narrator: (To Fagin) Why are these children dressed in rags? And why are they so filthy? And what is that terrible smell? Fagin: So many questions! Well, to start with, those rags are all they have! Appearances aren’t too important when you are just trying to stay alive! Narrator: But where are their parents? Fagin: (Laughing) They have no parents! They’re all orphans. They have nowhere to go but the workhouse! (Pauses) And before you ask, that’s gruel they’re getting in those bowls! Pretty disgusting but, like I said, keeps them alive. Better that than dying on the streets. (Oliver takes his bowl and sits with the rest; then gets up and stands in front of Mr. Bumble a second time) Also available: Victorian Assembly/Class Play; and Meet the Victorians – set of guided reading scripts.

The Tales of Beatrix Potter – adapted and revised, Part Four Tales 16 – 21 This is the fourth and final part of a four-part series of plays including: The Tales of: • Samuel Whiskers • The Pie and the Patty Pan • Ginger and Pickles • Little Pig Robinson & The Story of A Fierce Bad Rabbit and The Story of Miss Moppet The collection of twenty-one tales is available in four parts, Parts I, II, III and IV Parts I, II and III have five scripts each; each of these scripts taking approximately five minutes to read, with six speakers each – the exception in Part III being The Tale of Mr Tod which is the longest script in the collection at 15 minutes. These six scripts in Part IV are generally shorter than the scripts in the rest of the collection – especially the last two which hardly qualify as tales. There are a total number of 30 speakers. And unlike Parts I, II and III there are no question and answer sections. These plays are simple adaptations/conversation pieces based on Beatrix Potter’s tales, for use within the class room. They can either be used as group readers or combined to create a whole class play/assembly. The Tale of Samuel Whiskers (tale number 16) Cast of 7 Narrator Mrs. Tabitha Twitchit Tom Mrs. Ribby (Cousin and neighbour to Tabitha) Old man rat (Samuel Whiskers) Old woman rat (Anna Maria) John Joiner (dog) If only Tabitha had been a more disciplined parent! Easy enough to say after the event but nobody wants to end up as a dumpling! Not even the naughtiest of kittens – who probably deserved it! Sample Text Narrator: Cats, rats and a dog – this should be lively! Mrs. Ribby: I blame the parents! Tabitha: You would! So easy to judge others Narrator: (Intervening) Ladies! Ladies! Tabitha: (Petulantly) Well, it’s true! What would she know about bringing up three naughty kittens? Mrs. Ribby: Try asking yourself why they were naughty? Old woman rat: It’s very easy to find fault with others Old man rat: We should know! We’re rats! Nobody ever gives us a second chance! John Joiner: Well, you do come with something of a reputation!

The Tales of Beatrix Potter Guided Reading Part III This is the third of a four part series of plays including: The Tales of : • Mrs. Tittlemouse (cast of 6) • Timmy Tiptoes (cast of 6) • Johnny Town-Mouse (cast of 3) • Mr. Tod (cast of 7) • Pigling Bland (cast of 8) These five scripts are of varying lengths but take approximately five minutes each to read, with the total number of speakers at 30. The exception is The Tale of Mr. Tod which is around 15 minutes reading time – this the longest script in the collection. These plays are simple adaptations/conversation pieces based on Beatrix Potter’s tales, for use within the class room. They can either be used as group readers or combined to create a whole class play/assembly. They can be used as PSHE/Citizenship and/or Literacy resources – there are many tips on behaviour both within the scripts and afterwards, in the Q & A/Discussion sections. In the case of the latter, these offer a very simple line of questioning – they are intended as a starting point for further discussion and can of course be expanded beyond this simple format. Tale 11 The Tale of Mrs. Tittlemouse Cast of 6 Mrs. Tittlemouse (Thomasina) Beetle Ladybird (Mother Ladybird) Spider Bumble Bee (Babbitty Bumble) Toad (Mr. Jackson) How can you feel anything but total sympathy for Mrs Tittlemouse – so house-proud and having her spotless house invaded by so many uninvited (and extremely messy) guests? Especially Mr. Jackson – who definitely needs familiarising with the expression ‘outstaying your welcome’! Sample Text: Mrs. Tittlemouse: (Indignantly) But none of you were invited! You all just let yourselves in! Beetle: Are you calling us trespassers? Ladybird: You who told me my house was on fire? Mrs. Tittlemouse: Well, I had to get rid of you somehow! Spider: And there I was, just looking for Little Miss Muffet! Mrs. Tittlemouse: And leaving trails of cobwebs behind, wherever you went! Bumble Bee: (Tutting) Zizz, Bizz, Bizzz! Mrs. Tittlemouse: (Impatiently) Meaning? Bumble Bee: Zizz, Bizz, Bizzz! Mrs. Tittlemouse: (Sarcastically) Very helpful! Toad: I think what she is trying to say is Bumble Bee: (Interrupting angrily) Hey, I can speak for myself, thank you very much! Mrs. Tittlemouse: So, perhaps you can explain all that moss I found in my store cupboard? Bumble Bee: (Hesitantly) Well, it was, er, Mrs. Tittlemouse: Home to your family of bees! The cheek of it! Beetle: (Gasping) Ooh! You mean, she’d set up house (pausing) inside your house? Mrs. Tittlemouse: Exactly! Without so much as a please or a thank you! Ladybird: You mean, Babbitty Bumble just (pauses) moved in? Mrs. Tittlemouse: Quite so! (Pauses) So now can you see why I was less than accommodating to the rest of you? Beetle: Well, if you’re going to be taken advantage of like that, of course we understand. Oh dear! And there I was worrying about my dirty feet!

The Tales of Beatrix Potter Guided Reading Part II This is the second of a four part series of plays including: The Tales of • Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle (6 speakers) • Mr. Jeremy Fisher (6 speakers) • Tom Kitten (8 speakers) • Jemima Puddle-Duck (4 speakers) • and • The Flopsy Bunnies (6 speakers) These five scripts are of varying lengths but take approximately five minutes each to read, with the total number of speakers at 30. These plays are simple adaptations/conversation pieces based on Beatrix Potter’s tales, for use within the class room. They can either be used as group readers or combined to create a whole class play/assembly. They can be used as PSHE/Citizenship and/or Literacy resources – there are many tips on behaviour both within the scripts and afterwards, in the Q & A/Discussion sections. In the case of the latter, these offer a very simple line of questioning – they are intended as a starting point for further discussion and can of course be expanded beyond this simple format. Tale 6 The Tale of Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle Cast of 6 Narrator Lucie Tabby Kitten (Cat) Sally Henny-penny (Speckled hen) Cock Robin (Robin) Mrs Tiggy-winkle One of Beatrix Potter’s best loved characters – the adorable Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle. Accompanied here by some appreciative visitors. Narrator: So, where’s that wonderful hedgehog! I am so looking forward to meeting her! Lucie: (Crying) Oh no! Not another handkerchief lost! Whatever is happening to me? Narrator: (Aside) A little absentmindedness, perhaps? Just a suggestion! Lucie: (To Cat) Tabby Kitten! Have you seen them anywhere? Cat: ‘Fraid not! I don’t have much use for pocket handkerchiefs! See, I have paws! Lucie: (Sighing) Oh dear! Let’s try someone else. (To Speckled hen) Ah Sally Henny-penny! Have you seen my handkerchiefs anywhere? Speckled hen: (Sarcastically) What possible use would I have for a handkerchief? I have neither hands nor nose, or hadn’t you noticed? Lucie: (Sighing) Ah well, one more try! (To Robin) Cock Robin! Have you seen my handkerchiefs? Robin: (Indignantly) Why would I be interested in handkerchiefs? Narrator: Hmm, yes, sorry for stating the obvious but birds have beaks and claws – not noses and hands! Tale 7 The Tale of Mr. Jeremy Fisher Cast of 6 Narrator Jeremy Fisher Minnow Trout Newt (Sir Isaac Newton) Tortoise (Mr. Alderman Ptolemy) A frog who fishes? And doesn’t like the damp? Does this character have any amphibious traits at all? Read on to find out! Sample Text Jeremy: Hey, this is no confused frog, I’ll have you know! It’s everybody else that is confused around here! So, what if I went out on my boat to have a bit of fun fishing? Beats sitting around in that damp house! Trout: But frogs aren’t supposed to mind the damp. In fact, most frogs positively love it! Jeremy: No, what I meant was