I have just started adding my plays to TES (over 400)!but this will take time! All my assemblies/class plays and guided reading scripts are on www.plays-r-ussell.com and I am happy to write on request. I have converted the entire History Key Stage II curriculum into play format - and much of the other subjects such as Science, Geography, PSHE etc. I cover events such as the Olympics and have received great feedback from teachers around the world! Writing is my passion - hope you enjoy my work!
I have just started adding my plays to TES (over 400)!but this will take time! All my assemblies/class plays and guided reading scripts are on www.plays-r-ussell.com and I am happy to write on request. I have converted the entire History Key Stage II curriculum into play format - and much of the other subjects such as Science, Geography, PSHE etc. I cover events such as the Olympics and have received great feedback from teachers around the world! Writing is my passion - hope you enjoy my work!
Hansel and Gretel Play cast of 6 alternative version of the original Brothers Grimm version
This is one of a set of 'alternative' fairy tales based on those written by Brothers Grimm but re-written, just as they did!
This alternative Hansel and Gretel play can be used for performance or as a guided reading text.
Cast size and Duration
Cast of 6, reading time approximately 10 minutes
Purchase includes: Synopsis of original fairy tale, play script, teaching input, discussion and suggested follow up activities.
Other cast of 6 alternative plays: Rumpelstiltskin, Rapunzel, Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella - Cinderella also available as assembly/class play cast size 30 (easily adaptable up or down) long with Sleeping Beauty and Snow White. Snow White also available as a pantomime - cast of 30 or 60.
Sample Text
Narrator: Well, you were planning on eating those two children, weren’t you?
Old Lady: Those two children? Certainly not. Not at the same time, anyway!
Narrator: Oh we all know about you fattening up young Hansel first.
Old Lady: Well, I didn’t hear any complaints from him!
(Enter Gretel)
Gretel: Not when he was being fed prime joints every night – whilst I had nothing!
Old Lady: Now now young lady. You know perfectly well that’s not true.
Gretel: Well, you did save all the best stuff for him.
Old Lady: Only so that I could fatten him up quicker. And it worked, didn’t it?
Gretel: (Giggling) I suppose it did!
(Enter Hansel)
Hansel: What do you mean, it worked?
Old Lady: Well, you were so convinced your wee bone trick would work on me
Gretel: Pretending that was your finger!
Old Lady: I mean. I know I’m short-sighted! But not that short-sighted!
Hansel: So who ended up in the oven? We all know the trick you, Gretel, played.
Old Lady: Aha! Maybe it’s you, Hansel, that should’ve gone to Spec Savers!
Hansel: What do you mean? It was you Gretel that pushed her into the oven (pauses) wasn’t it?
Gretel: What? Push a defenceless old lady into a red hot oven? Are you serious?
Hansel: (Spluttering) But but … you saved me!
Cinderella Play - alternative version of the original Brothers Grimm version
This is one of a set of 'alternative' fairy tales based on those written by Brothers Grimm but re-written, just as they did, by Sue Russell!
This alternative Cinderella play can be used for performance or as a guided reading text.
Cast size and Duration
Cast of 6, reading time around 10 minutes
Purchase includes: Synopsis of original fairy tale, play script, teaching input, discussion and suggested follow up activities.
Other cast of 6 alternative plays: Rumpelstiltskin, Rapunzel, Little Red Riding Hood and Hansel and Gretel - Cinderella also available as assembly/class play cast size 30 (easily adaptable up or down) long with Sleeping Beauty and Snow White. Snow White also available as a pantomime - cast of 30 or 60.
Sample Text:
Narrator: You may have a point! And maybe now, we can all take a slightly more laid back approach to life!
Step Sister 1: Oh you’re talking about that exercise regime!
Step Sister 2: Dragging Cinders along to the gym every day!
Cinderella: Oh don’t you worry about that. Now I have my prince, I have a bit more of a reason to stay fit!
Fairy Godmother: And stay away from those doughnuts
Step Sister 1 & 2: (Together) Please!
Cinderella: Oh no worries there. I guess that was just a case of comfort eating. I’m way happier now (pauses) and it’s not just because I have found my prince
Prince: Oh really?
Cinderella: Yeah. No offence but I want to stay fit for me – not for anyone else! I want to feel good – inside and out; and that means regular exercise and not binge-eating on doughnuts! I don’t need to anymore. I can see the bigger picture!
Narrator: Wow! That’s amazing! (Pauses) Are you sure you haven’t been put up to this by Weight Watchers?
Cinderella: (Laughing) No way! Or should I say, no weigh!
Fairy Godmother: (Applauding) So good to see you haven’t lost your sense of humour, Cinders! But on a serious note, what you have just said is so important, I think we need to say it again. Right, girls?
Step Sisters 1 & 2: Right, Fairy Godmother!
Step Sister 1: Staying fit, staying healthy is great.
Step Sister 2: But it’s not just about looking great on the outside.
Cinderella: No, it’s just as important to feel good on the inside.
Sleeping Beauty cast of 6
Alternative version of the original Brothers Grimm version
This is one of a set of 'alternative' fairy tales based on those written by Brothers Grimm but re-written, just as they did!
This alternative Sleeping Beauty play can be used for performance or as a guided reading text.
Cast size and Duration
Cast of 6, reading time around 15 minutes
Purchase includes: Synopsis of original fairy tale, play script, teaching input, discussion and suggested follow up activities.
Other cast of 6 alternative plays: Rumpelstiltskin, Rapunzel, Little Red Riding Hood, Hansel and Gretel and Cinderella. Sleeping Beauty is also available as assembly/class play cast size 30 (easily adaptable up or down) along with Cinderella and Snow White. Snow White also available as a pantomime - cast of 30 or 60.
Sample Text
Narrator: (Shouting) You may want to switch your alarm off!
(Queen goes over and switches it off)
King: Phew! Thank goodness for that!
(Sound of loud snoring from Sleeping Beauty)
King: But wait! What is that awful noise?
Narrator: That awful noise is your daughter!
Queen: Oh dear! No wonder there wasn’t a prince in this script!
King: (Tutting) Time she woke up.
Queen: Oh don’t be too harsh! She is a princess, after all! And we all know how much princesses need their beauty sleep!
King: (Grunting) Huh! This one more than others! Come on Sleeping Beauty!
(King gives her a shake)
Sleeping Beauty: (Yawning) Oh, why? Why must I always get woken up?
Queen: I’m sorry, my dear. I did try and explain how much you needed your beauty sleep!
Sleeping Beauty: Beauty sleep? What’s that got to do with it?
King: Er well
Sleeping Beauty: Were you not listening at the beginning? I, along with all the other girls out there, was not put on this earth simply to find a prince – handsome or otherwise. And now I’m awake there are going to be a few changes around here.
Queen: (Gasping) But Sleeping Beauty!
Sleeping Beauty: And that can be the first thing to change! My name! I care not for either Sleeping or Beauty! Just call me Frankie in future!
Queen and King: (Together) Frankie?
Theseus and the Minotaur Lesson Plan, Guided Reading Script and Quiz
Each 'package' consists of guided reading script (6 speakers) plus lesson plan and quiz/reading comprehension; and accommodates both small group and all class engagement. As explained in the lesson plan, whilst a group of six speakers read the script, the rest of the class (divided into teams) follows in order to answer questions that follow. There are also some ideas for follow up discussion, time permitting.
Lesson Plan (Around 20 - 30 minutes)
The lesson time can be reduced to 20 minutes by e.g. omission of quiz/discussion.
The script takes around 10 minutes reading time.
The quiz takes around 5 – 10 minutes.
This script, along with four others (Odysseus and the Cyclops, The Gorgon's Head, Pandora's Box and The Tale of Two Spinners) is available as one product - The Ancient Greek Myths Guided Reading Scripts. These scripts are also available separately as guided reading scripts, lesson plans and quizzes.
Sample Text:
Pasiphae: This is a tale of two cities.
Aegeus: Athens
Minos: And Crete. It has vile villains
Theseus: A noble hero
Pasiphae: A wronged wife
Minotaur: And a hideous monster.
Minos: It is a tale of deceit
Pasiphae: Of shame
Aegeus: Of murder
Minos: Of revenge
Aegeus: Of sacrifice
Theseus: Of bravery
Ariadne: Of love
Aegeus: Of victory
Theseus: And of terrible tragedy.
Ariadne: So let’s see how this tale unfolds. Starting with the deceit.
Quiz Sample
1. What was the name of the father of Theseus?
2. He was the king of which city?
3. Who was the king of Crete?
4. What was the name of his wife?
5. What was the name of their daughter?
6. What was the name of her half-brother?
7. Who would you say was a ‘vile villain’?
8. Who was the hero?
9. Who was the wronged wife?
Snow White Play cast of 6
An alternative to Brothers Grimm version
This is one of a set of 'alternative' fairy tales based on those written by Brothers Grimm but re-written, just as they did!
This alternative Snow White play can be used for performance or as a guided reading text.
Cast of 6, reading time around 15 - 20 minutes
Purchase includes: Synopsis of original fairy tale, play script, teaching input, discussion and suggested follow up activities.
Other cast of 6 alternative plays: Rumpelstiltskin, Rapunzel, Little Red Riding Hood, Hansel and Gretel, Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty - Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and this one also available as assembly/class play cast size 30 (easily adaptable up or down). Snow White also available as a pantomime - cast of 30 or 60.
Sample Script
Narrator: Good morning and welcome to
(Enter Snow White, followed by shrieking Queen)
Queen: (Angrily) Snow White? What are you doing here?
Snow White: Oh! I was just about to set off into the woods with the huntsman, as you ordered.
Queen: (Sweetly) Ah! That’s all right then! I just wanted to wish you a wonderful day!
Snow White: How kind! I am rather looking forward to going out! Everyone says how pale I look!
Queen: Exactly! Most unattractive! I’m sure a day in the woods will do you and your complexion the world of good!
(Exit Snow White, waving)
Queen: Ugh! Horrid ugly child!
(Mirror, who has been standing silently to one side, suddenly ‘comes to life’)
Mirror: Well I wouldn’t ..
Queen: (Interrupting) Oh do shut up! How many more times do I have to tell you? I am the fairest of them all!
Mirror: But I always give you the truth!
Queen: Which I do not need to hear around the clock, thank you very much. And anyway, you’ll soon be changing your tune!
Mirror: What do you mean? I can’t sing!
Queen: (Rolling eyes) No, what I meant was, you will give me a different answer next time I ask you that question
Narrator: (Holding up script) Oh, I think I know what that one is!
Queen: And who asked you?
Narrator: (Indignantly) Well, really, madam! There’s no need to be quite so churlish! I am supposed to be directing this story, you know!
Queen: (Dismissively) Huh! What’s to direct?
(To Audience) We all know the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, right?
Narrator: Well, you may think you do. But haven’t you heard? Fairy tales are being rewritten all the time and
Queen: (Interrupting) Oh really? You mean, someone might see me in a more favourable light?
Narrator: Who knows? If you play your cards right who knows what might happen?
Queen: Ooh. Now you’ve got me interested! You’ve no idea how tedious it is being cast and re-cast as a baddie!
The Good Samaritan Assembly or Class Play - CAST OF 10
NB: This play, cast of 10, is a re-telling of the parable with complementary discussion notes on the bystander effect.
(The full-length assembly with a cast of 30 (separate purchase) starts with this same cast of 10 but has an additional 20 speakers dealing with ‘the bystander effect’ with reference to today’s society, delivered via five different scenarios).
This script with a cast of 10 can be read in around 10 minutes (not including music suggestions at beginning and end).
It is, of course, one of the best-known parables from the Bible and so can be used in an R.E. lesson or for Church and Sunday School activities. It has particular relevance in our world today and can thus be used for PSHE and Citizenship classes - the play acting as an introduction to a lesson on The Bystander Effect with all its implications for us as a society.
Sample Text
(Enter Good Samaritan)
Jewish Man: Oh hello! And who do we have this time? (Groaning) Oh! A Samaritan! Just my luck! There’s no way he’s going to stop!
(Good Samaritan bends over Jewish Man and offers to help him up)
Good Samaritan: Oh dear! Whatever happened to you? Here, let me help you up.
Jewish Man: Well, that’s very kind. And very unexpected!
Good Samaritan: Whatever do you mean?
Jewish Man: Well. You being a Samaritan and me being a Jew. We’re not exactly ‘on the same team’ so to speak, are we?
Good Samaritan: And since when did ‘being on the same team’ have anything to do with looking out for your fellow human beings? Oh dear, you’ve taken a real beating there. I’m so sorry. Here, let me put some bandaging on those sores.
(Good Samaritan takes bandages from his bag, and pours oil and wine over them)
This should make you feel better.
Jewish Man: You are so kind! Thank you so much.
Good Samaritan: (Laughing) It’s nothing! You didn’t really think I’d leave you here? Just walk on by?
Jewish Man: I most certainly did!
Good Samaritan: (Laughing) Ridiculous! You seem to have lost all faith in your fellow mankind!
Jewish Man: Well, let’s just say you just restored it – my faith in mankind, that is. Thank you again.
David and Goliath Assembly, Class Play or Guided Reading Script
Cast of 10
Duration: 5 - 10 minutes reading time (not including music suggestions)
This play may be used as an assembly for performance, or a play or guided reading script within the classroom. Along with delivering the story of David and Goliath, there are brief notes at the end to facilitate further discussion - on the themes of bullying, self-belief and self-strength. There are numerous other scripts on these themes in the PSHE section of the website including one on bullying which could be combined with this script to produce a longer play.
Sample Text
Goliath: Well, let’s see if he can work the same magic (pauses) on the battlefield!
David: Against you? I’m more than up for it!
King Saul: But that’s insane!
Servant: Yes, begging your pardon, but how can you possibly hope to win (pauses, pointing at Goliath) against that?
David: (Shrugging his shoulders, casually) What’s to prove? He’s just (pauses)
Servant: (Interrupting) Big?
Philistine Soldier 1: (Clapping) Bravo!
Philistine Soldier 2: (Clapping) So you noticed?
David: Huh! Size isn’t everything!
(Goliath strides over to David, towering above him)
Goliath: Oh really?
(David stands his ground, unflinching)
David: Yes, really! You don’t frighten me, you great bully! There’s more to winning a battle than sheer brawn, you know.
Narrator: No, I rather fear he doesn’t know. I’m not even sure he understands what you’re saying!
Goliath: (Furiously) Understand what you’re saying? What’s to understand, that’s what I want to know!
Narrator: Quite! My point exactly!
(David starts to walk away)
Goliath: Huh! I knew he wouldn’t stick around! A coward, like the rest of you!
King Saul: Oh, don’t be so ridiculous! Look at you! All ready in your battle gear! Does my lad David look ready to you?
Goliath: Well, now you come to mention it
King Saul: So. If you don’t mind, we’ll just take a short time to get David into my armour and
David: (Interrupting) Oh don’t worry! That won’t be necessary! I’m pretty much good to go!
King Saul: But what about some protection? A body shield at least?
David: No, no. That won’t be necessary, either. I know what I need and I’ll be back in a minute.
(Exit David)
Goliath: Bah! Just an excuse to do a runner! You wait! There’s no way that wee boy is coming back to take on me!
Rapunzel play cast of 6 - alternative version of the original Brothers Grimm version
This is one of a set of 'alternative' fairy tales based on those written by Brothers Grimm - whom I'm guessing would by now be looking more than just a bit grim! Our play hardly sticks to the script. As with the others in this collection, the endings are just a little different!
This alternative Rapunzel play (cast of 6) can be used for performance or as a guided reading text. The Wicked Witch might seem an unlikely heroine - but who else is going to accompany Rapunzel on her shopping trip? This version turns 'original' on its head giving us a truly alternative take on things.
Cast size and Duration
Cast of 6, reading time approximately 10 minutes
Purchase includes: Synopsis of original fairy tale, play script, teaching input, discussion and suggested follow up activities.
Other cast of six plays available in this series: Hansel and Gretel, Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella and Rumpelstiltskin; Snow White, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella are also available as assemblies, cast size 30 (easily adaptable up or down). Snow White also available as a pantomime.
Sample Text
(Enter Wicked Witch – Narrator gestures for audience to boo and hiss)
Wicked Witch: (Angrily) Now wait just one moment! Who’s in the wrong here?
(Wicked Witch points to couple)
Wicked Witch: Them or me?
Narrator: (Puzzled) Sorry?
Wicked Witch: Oh you will be! Along with these two – or should I say, three?
Father: (To Wicked Witch) How dare you threaten my wife and unborn child!
Wicked Witch: (To Father) So! Just to set the record straight. Have you or have you not just helped yourself to my rampion?
Father: (Spluttering) Well, I er
Wicked Witch: And is this or is this not the second time you have climbed over my wall and trespassed on my property?
Father: Well, um
Wicked Witch: Guilty! On both counts! And not even brave enough to admit to it! So who’s the bad one now?
Odysseus and the Cyclops lesson plan, guided reading script & quiz
Each 'package' consists of lesson plan plus guided reading script (6 speakers) plus quiz/reading comprehension.
Lesson Plan (Around 20 - 30 minutes)
The lesson time can be reduced to 20 minutes by e.g. omission of quiz/discussion.
The script takes around 10 minutes reading time.
The quiz takes around 5 – 10 minutes.
These resources accommodate both small group and all class engagement. As explained in the lesson plan, whilst a group of six speakers read the script, the rest of the class (divided into teams) follows in order to answer questions that follow. There are also some ideas for follow up discussion, time permitting.
Time allowance is flexible - from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on how much of the package is used.
This script, along with four others (Theseus and the Minotaur, The Gorgon's Head, Pandora's Box and The Tale of Two Spinners) is available as one product - The Ancient Greek Myths Guided Reading Scripts
Sample text:
Greek warrior 2
(laughing): Yes, we’ve heard how being a blacksmith was just a little bit too taxing for you! Did being born with only one eye mean you were only born with half a brain?
Cyclops 2: How rude! Though I guess it was a shame we forgot our old blacksmith skills.
Polyphemus: Even though I would never have driven a red-hot stake into the eye of any creature.
Greek warrior 1: Not even one that was holding you captive, and eating 2 men for breakfast and supper, every day?
Odysseus: Real convenience food, we were!
Polyphemus: Well, you did make a welcome change from lamb stew!
Poseidon: Enough! Here I am, trying to defend you, Polyphemus, and all you can do is confirm their story! What are you? Stupid, or something?
Sample Quiz/Reading Comprehension Questions
• What animals did Cyclops look after?
• What trade had Zeus originally trained the Cyclops for?
• How did Polyphemus prevent Odysseus and his men from escaping from his cave?
• Why did the Cyclops not help Polyphemus?
• What did Odysseus use to dull Polyphemus’s senses ..even more?
Aesop Fables Guided Reading Scripts
SPECIAL HALF TERM OFFER:
Set of 5 Guided Reading Scripts, from Aesop Fables - available individually @ £5.00 Special Offer - all 5 for £15
These scripts, 6 speakers each, can be used within the classroom, in English or PSHE, or for *performance. They each come with lesson plan, original story synopsis, discussion points and suggestions for further activities.
*as separate plays (6 speakers), or one combined play(cast of 30)
Five Aesop Fables:
· The Lion and the Mouse
· The Fox and the Stork
· The Tortoise and the Hare
· The Jay and the Peacocks
· The Goose that Laid the Golden Eggs
The Five PSHE Themes are:
· Friendship
· Mutual Respect
· Taking Time
· Being Happy with Who and What we are
· Being Satisfied with What We've Got
Duration: Each script is between 5 and 10 minutes reading time. As each comes with additional activities, this resource is potentially five 20-30 minute lessons – so could be done over the course of a week or spread out over a longer period.
Happy Customer: "I am so excited to use these! I was beginning to forget who I am as a teacher especially during guided reading because I was trying so hard to fit into my schools strict guided reading expectations and I think this will really help me discover me again. Thank you so much!"
Rating: 4.0
So lovely to receive comments like this - within 24 hours of releasing these scripts! Thank you so much to this teacher - made my day! Currently working on a 5 scene/5 guided reading script adaptation of The Wind in the Willows. Hope it gets the same reception!
Wind in the Willows Play or Set of Guided Reading Scripts
This script is suitable for use as Guided Reading (Readers Theater) or for performance. Instead of being sold as two separate products, it is in effect 2 for the price of 1 – as the customer can use it for either purpose.
Guided Reading:
The 5 scenes can be used by 5 groups of 6 children i.e. a total of 30 altogether and simply read in the classroom, ‘around the table’.
In this format, the music suggestions and ‘extra cast’ would obviously be dropped.
Duration Around 25 to 30 minutes (about 5 minutes for each script)
Play - for Performance Purposes:
Use of the entire cast of 30: 6 speakers plus Woodland Creatures and Law Force, along with music suggestions. The length of performance can be reduced from 45 minutes plus to around 20 minutes by less use of music and the omission of one or more scenes.
· Play/Performance: 30 minutes plus time for inclusion of music/routines – of around 15 minutes. Total: around 45 minutes – probably a bit longer.
· Assembly or Class Play. The length of the play could be reduced to around 20 minutes by omitting one or more of the scenes.
Sample Text:
Badger: (Exploding) Toad learn his lesson? I don’t think so! Not with his
Mole: (Interrupting hurriedly) More sandwiches, anyone?
Badger: (To Mole) You’re way too soft on him, Mole.
Toad: (Indignantly) Hello! I am still here you know!
(Toad continues to fill his mouth with food)
Badger: Taking advantage of your friends, as usual!
(Badger helps himself to some sandwiches)
Toad: Well, you don’t seem to be doing so badly, yourself! Good sandwiches?
Badger: Indeed they are! You certainly know how to put together a fine picnic, Ratty!
Ratty: Well, thank you. This ol’ brain of mine does have its uses!
Mole: Such a clever animal!
Badger: And just as well, some of the scrapes you lot got yourselves into!
Gaoler: Oh, we know all about those! Stealing a car and driving it with no thought for the safety of others!
Badger: That’s Toad, to a T!
Toad: (Indignantly) Whatever do you mean?
Badger: Just that, nine times of ten, you think of number one first!
Toad: (Scratching head) Woah! Wait a minute! That’s way too many numbers!
Badger: OK. Let me put it to you simply. (Pauses) You are one selfish, conceited creature!
(Everyone gasps)
Mole: Oh Badger! Must you? It’s such a lovely day and we were having such a fine time here by the river
Wizard of Oz Guided Reading Scripts (10) - 6 speakers each
This ‘play’ was written primarily as a set of guided reading scripts or Readers Theater – to be used by 5 groups of 6 speakers. The 10 scripts can be divided into Scene I & II for Group 1, Scene III & IV for Group 2 etc; or a run of consecutive readings, going round twice e.g. Scene I for Group 1, Scene II for Group 2 etc.
Conversely, the 10 scripts could be used by one group at a time i.e. for 10 or however many sessions it takes; or just straight through in around 30 minutes.
These scripts could be combined to produce a play for performance, with the addition of directions, music suggestions and extra cast members plus props.
Number of Scenes and Duration:
There are 10 Scenes. Each of these is around 3 minutes reading time. 30 minutes in total.
Cast
The same 5 principal roles (Dorothy, Toto, Scarecrow, Tin Woodman and Cowardly Lion) are used in each scene. The additional 6th speaker is different each time with the exception of the last two scenes.
In brackets after the cast list e.g. Scene I (‘Others - 3 Munchkins - BLUE – for class play) are the additional cast members that could be added for a performance play. These are not required for the guided reading scripts as they stand.
Scene I Arrival in Land of Oz
Cast
· Dorothy
· Toto
· Scarecrow
· Tin Woodman
· Cowardly Lion
Plus
· Good Witch of the North
(‘Others’ - 3 Munchkins - BLUE – for class play)
Sample Text:
Witch: (Interrupting) Oh, no mistake, my dear! Your house here took her out in one move. Can’t you see her feet sticking out from underneath?
Toto: She’s right! Well, who would have thought it
Scarecrow: (Sadly) Hmm. Thinking. Not my speciality! No brains to speak of, me!
Dorothy: That’s what you think!
Tin Woodman: But that’s just the point! He can’t – think, that is! Any more than I can feel!
Dorothy: You are mistaken
Cowardly Lion: Huh! You’ll be telling me I’m a brave creature, next!
Dorothy: You are!
Witch: (Impatiently) Well, much as I would like to stand around listening to you lot arguing all day – not! Let’s just say, it’s a blessing that cyclone brought you here all the way from Kansas
The Ugly Duckling Guided Reading Script or Readers Theater for Group of six speakers
This is one of a collection of Hans Christian Andersen stories and includes teaching input, discussion and suggestions for further activities - i.e. ample content for a lesson. It can equally be used as a literary or PSHE resource.
It could also be used as a small play, for performance, with a few ‘tweaks’ and the addition of the music suggestions below.
Music
1. ‘There once was an ugly duckling’ song
2. Swan Lake – Tchaikovsky
3. You’re so Vain – Carly Simon
Cast of 6:
Narrator
The Ugly Duckling
Farmyard Turkey
Swan 1, 2 & 3
Duration: Around 10 minutes reading time
Sample Text 1
Ugly Duckling: ‘Oh dear!’
Narrator: (Puzzled) Pardon?
Ugly Duckling: ‘Oh dear!’ I mean, that was the first thing I heard when I emerged into this world.
Swan 1: Oh, you poor, dear sweetheart!
Farmyard Turkey: (Mimicking Swan 1) Ah bless! You little darling!
Swan 2: (To Turkey) What is your problem? Did nobody ever show you any love?
Farmyard Turkey: Well, now you come to mention it, no!
Swan 3: Oh dear! That would explain a lot!
Farmyard Turkey: (Angrily) I beg your pardon? Heh, I’ve survived, haven’t I? And not, may I add, done so very badly for myself! Think farmyard status again!
Narrator: Oh, you and your farmyard status! I wonder how you’d have fared outside that yard, in the bigger world?
Farmyard Turkey: (Anxiously) Ooh, you wouldn’t get me going beyond the farmyard gate!
Ugly Duckling: And that’s exactly to and beyond where I was chased!
Narrator: But, hold on a minute. What about those other ducklings?
Swan 1: Yeah. Those first brothers and sisters of yours?
Swan 2: Didn’t they stand by you?
Swan 3: Didn’t they stick up for you?
Ugly Duckling: You are joking? From the minute they saw me they made fun of me!
Sample Text 2 (Demonstrating PHSE link)
Narrator: Nah! Ever heard the expression, beauty is in the eye of the beholder?
Swan 2: Meaning?
Narrator: That what is ugly and unattractive to one person, is totally beautiful to another!
Ugly Duckling: A shame my brothers and sisters didn’t see that!
Narrator: Because you were different from them. And sometimes being different is quite scary to others. They feel threatened.
Ugly Duckling: They feel threatened? They want to feel what it’s like to be on the receiving end!
Narrator: Which is why we should always treat others as we’d like to be treated ourselves.
Fairy Tale Pantomime
This script can either be used for performance purposes - as a pantomime, a Christmas play or an assembly - or as a set of guided reading scripts (Readers Theater) to be used within the classroom.
35 pages of fun – and extremely bad jokes!
Cast of 30 (five groups of six)
Play I SLEEPING BEAUTY
Speaker 1 Narrator
Speaker 2 Sleeping Beauty
Speaker 3 Prince (girl)
Speaker 4 Good Fairy (boy)
Speaker 5 Bad Fairy (boy)
Speaker 6 Sleeping Beauty’s Mother – the Dame
Play II CINDERELLA
Speaker 7: Cinderella
Speaker 8: Bad Sister 1
Speaker 9: Bad Sister 2
Speaker 10: Fairy Godmother
Speaker 11: Prince
Speaker 12: Cinderella’s Step-Mum alias ‘Dame’
Play III SNOW WHITE
Speaker 13: Mirror
Speaker 14: Wicked Queen/Step-Mother
Speaker 15: Snow White
Speaker 16: Huntsman/Prince
Speaker 17: Dwarf 1 Dopey/Dame
Speaker 18: Dwarf 2 Jolly
Play IV Little Red Riding Hood
Speaker 19: Little Red Riding Hood
Speaker 20: Little Red Riding Hood’s Mother
Speaker 21 Big Bad Wolf
Speaker 22: Grannie/Dame
Speaker 23: Huntsman
Speaker 24: Censor
Play V RUMPELSTILTSKIN
Narrator: Narrator
Speaker 25: Rumpelstiltskin
Speaker 26: Daughter
Speaker 27: King
Speaker 28: Miller
Speaker 29: Queen/Dame
Duration: Around 30 minutes not including music suggestions (around 5 minutes for each of 5 plays)
Sample Text:
Music 1 – A medley of Christmas songs
(Children file in, seating themselves along 2 rows of 15, facing the audience; in 5 groups of 6)
Narrator: Good morning and welcome to our pantomime
(Whole Cast stands)
Whole Cast: (In disbelief) Our what?
Narrator: You heard! I have decided that this year
Child 1: (Interrupting) No way!
Child 2: We’re always happy to come to your drama group, sir, but
Child 3: Absolutely no way are we doing panto!
Narrator: Oh yes you are!
Whole Cast: Oh no we’re not!
Narrator: There you are! I knew you wouldn’t take much persuading!
Child 4: Er, I think you just misheard. We said
Whole Cast: Oh no we’re not!
The Emperor's New Clothes Guided Reading Script
This is one of a collection of Hans Christian Andersen stories and includes Teaching Input, Discussion and Suggestions for Further Activities - i.e. ample content for a lesson. It can equally be used as a literary or PSHE resource.
It could also be used as a small play, for performance, with a few ‘tweaks’ and the addition of the music suggestions below.
Music
1. Fashion - David Bowie
2. You’re so Vain – Carly Simon
Cast of 6:
• Narrator
• Emperor
• Weaver 1 & 2
• Royal Adviser
• Street Child
Duration: Around 10 minutes reading time
Sample Text:
Narrator: (To Street Child) Apart from you, you all went along with this charade – just so as to save face? Well, really!
Royal Adviser: Yes, I know it looks bad
Narrator: It most certainly does
Emperor: But I wonder what you’d have done, especially as everyone else seemed to be going along with it?
Narrator: But couldn’t you see you were being taken for a song and a dance?
Weaver 1: It was quite funny!
Weaver 2: Especially when the emperor here actually turned up to try on his new clothes
Weaver 1: After having given us all that money and gold thread and
Emperor: (Interrupting) Yes, yes. Must you rub it in? Haven’t I been humiliated enough?
Royal Adviser: (Groaning) Oh, if only I had had the strength to admit to what I could see – as in, nothing! No cloth on the loom, no clothes, just air!
Emperor: And what a lot of hot air you were! Coming back telling me how wonderfully the work was progressing. How delighted I was going to be with my new clothes!
Royal Adviser: But I didn’t want to appear either unfit for my job or stupid.
Narrator: And so, you ended up being both!
Street Child: I’ll never understand grown-ups!
Other Hans Christian Anderson stories available are:
• The Ugly Duckling
(with more to come)
Miracles of Jesus Assembly and/or Guided Reading Scripts
This assembly can be used as a class play (for performance) or as a set of guided reading scripts within the classroom – there are a set of questions for class discussion included in the Production Notes.
The five plays within this assembly are:
Turning Water into Wine
Feeding the Five Thousand
Walking on Water
The Raising of Lazarus from the Dead
Healing Miracles including Healing the Man Born Blind
Cast of 30 - Narrator plus Student, with cast of 5 for the first 4 plays and then cast of 8 for the fifth.
Duration: Around 10 – 15 minutes not including hymns
Sample Text:
Music 1 Love Divine All Loves Excelling hymn
(Cast files into hall, seating themselves along two rows of fifteen seats, facing the audience; Narrator and Student standing to one side)
Narrator: Good morning and welcome to our assembly on
Cast: (Together) Miracles!
Narrator: The miracles of
Cast: (Together) Jesus!
Student: Wow! This should be amazing! I’ve never seen miracles performed live before!
Narrator: And I wouldn’t count on seeing any here today!
Student: (Protesting) But
Narrator: (Interrupting) But nothing! Jesus never intended his work to be seen as magic! He was not there to entertain but to teach.
Student: (Stifling a yawn) If you say so!
Narrator: I most certainly do! So, if you don’t mind, we’ll get going with the very first miracle Jesus performed at that Wedding in Cana.
Music 2 Hymn – Lord at Cana’s Wedding Feast
Play 1 Water into Wine Miracle
(Enter Jesus, bride, groom, servant 1 & 2)
Jesus: Was ever there a happier occasion than a wedding?
(Bride and groom talking together in worried tones)
Bride: What are we to do?
Groom: This is a disaster!
Jesus: But wait? What is the matter with our happy couple?
Servant 1: Have you not heard?
Servant 2: The wine has run out!
Time Travelling in Ancient Egypt Guided Reading Scripts or Readers Theater
This is the first of a series of ‘Time Travels’ – based on guided reading scripts which were written as supplementary classroom resources to Class Plays or Assemblies.
Please note: This Time Travel Series only currently consists of the one product - on Ancient Egypt. I am really waiting to see if there is sufficient interest in this product in order to follow with the rest of the series.
A group of Time Travelers has been added along with a few 'tweaks' to the original script (still available along with accompanying quizzes under Guided Reading - Ancient Egyptians Guided Reading Play Scripts.)
Written in play format with 6 speakers to each of 5 ‘plays’ (Total number of speakers – 30)
Each play is around 5 minutes reading time and comes with a quiz at the end
Total time: around 35 – 40 minutes
Unit 10The Ancient Egyptians
Introduction to Ancient Egypt
Guide plus five other Time Travelers – Adam, Mary, Peter, Susan and Phillip
Guide: Well, what do you know? Here we are!
Adam: But where is here?
Guide: (Looking around) Why, here in Ancient Egypt of course!
Play 2 Farmer's Year Speakers: Farmer 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 &6
Farmer 3: Though we did leave a lot behind for those archaeologists! Always digging things up and learning about how we lived.
Farmer 4: Pots and pans, jewelry, weapons, (pause) .. and loo seats! Yes, the first known toilet seat in the world was dug up in the ancient Egyptian city of Akhenaten in 1350 B.C. I don't suppose anyone was still sitting on it!
Play 3 Daily Life Speakers: Mother, Father, Daughter, Son, Teacher, Priest
Son: Yes, they weren't just amazing buildings, for us living persons to stand and admire.
Priest: No indeed. Far more importantly they were designed to send our pharaohs to join the gods in heaven.
Daughter: Wasn't that called the after-life?
Priest: Yes. A world free of low life.
Son: Are you talking about those tomb robbers again?
Priest: Yes. We tried to make things harder for them. And then someone thought of hidden tombs!
Play 4 The After-life Speakers: Chief Priest, Embalmer, Mummy, Anubis, Osiris, Ammut
Chief Priest: Ready to stuff?
Embalmer: Yup! With straw, linen and sweet smelling herbs! Add a little salt
Mummy (muttering): This one obviously thinks he's a celebrity chef!
Chief Priest: No! A little more than just a pinch of salt! This natron needs to cover the body if it's going to dry out over the next 40 days!
Play 5 The Gods Speakers: Amun, Nut, Thoth, Human, Hapi, Seth
Hapi (snorting) Hmph! Hapi by name but not always by nature!
Pinocchio Cast of 6
A story of redemption and self-discovery – with one small twist!
Script comes with synopsis of original tale, teaching input, discussion points and suggestions for further activities.
This script can be used for performance or, owing to its small cast size, as a guided reading script i.e. for a group of 6 within the classroom.
Also available in same format: Rumpelstiltskin, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, Hansel and Gretel and Cinderella.
Pinocchio – cast of 30 (easily adaptable up or down) is also available – production of around 40 minutes depending on number of music suggestions used.
Cast of 6
Narrator
Pinocchio
Geppetto
Cricket
Cat and Fox
Duration: Around 10 - 15 minutes
Sample Text:
Narrator: Oh dear, why is it some folk really do have to learn the hard way?
Pinocchio: (Sighing) There’s no need to rub it in. I admit, I wasn’t the world’s fastest learner!
Geppetto: Ah, but you got there eventually
Cricket: (Interrupting) Eventually! Wow, but didn’t he just mega try our patience along the way!
Pinocchio: I know. I was a bit of a wooden top!
Cricket: I’ll say!
Geppetto: (Interrupting) No, no! He was a good boy underneath!
Narrator: Oh, there you go again, Geppetto! Making excuses for him!
Geppetto: Well, he was my son!
Cricket: Certainly ‘a chip off the old block’!
Pinocchio: (Angrily) Hey! Watch how you speak to my father!
Cricket: (Gasping) And what about everything you put him through!
Narrator: (Coughing) Ahem! For the benefit of those not in the know, perhaps we should give a little of the story, at this point?
Pinocchio: Not forgetting there are always two sides to a story!
Cricket: Or two versions, if you have anything to do with it! Think nose, is all I’m saying!
Peter Pan Cast of 6 Script
This script comes with synopsis, teaching input and further discussion ideas – the whole ‘package’, including 10-minute reading time of script, coming to around 20 – 30 minutes.
Also available:
Peter Pan Play – in two versions:
• one for primary school children (7 to 11-year olds)
• the other, which includes a social commentary from J.M. Barrie, for upper Key Stage II primary school children plus i.e. from 10 years on
Sample Text:
Narrator: And so, our task today
Peter Pan: To take you to Neverland!
Tinker Bell: With me!
Wendy: And me!
Tinker Bell: (Groaning) Oh, must we?
Peter Pan: (Angrily) Tink! We’re talked about this
Wendy: (Interrupting) You mean her insane jealousy
Tinker Bell: (Interrupting) What? Of you? Don’t flatter yourself!
Captain Hook: (Intervening) Ladies! Please! Where’s your self-respect?
Crocodile: Tick! Tick! Tick!
Captain Hook: (Screaming) Oh no! Not now!
Wendy: (Sarcastically) Did someone just mention self-respect?
Narrator: (To Captain Hook) And a pirate, too! What is the matter with you, man?
Captain Hook: Oh nothing! (Rounding on Narrator, angrily) Other than the fact I lost an arm to this monster! I wonder how you would feel about that?
Peter Pan: Er, not strictly true. It was I that severed that limb from your body!
Captain Hook: (Shrieking) Oh, don’t remind me!
Peter Pan: And then fed it to this crocodile!
Crocodile: Yum yum! Definitely gave me the taste for some more!
Tinker Bell: Which you got – right at the end!
Wendy: Nothing like a happy ending!
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