Large Cast
If trying to find a play for a cast of 3 or 4 is difficult, it can be just as hard trying to find a play to cast an entire class or year group in. So many plays have a handful of substantial parts surrounded by a few satellite roles that offer little challenge. The plays listed here should help you give everyone a shot at developing a role with some challenge and substance to it.
A Christmas Carol
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens adapted by Gary Owen
This is the first play adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic novel from an award-winning playwright who remains close to the original text but significantly updates the humor and fleshes out in spoken dialogue many of the important character passages from the book. This adaptation is not the stuffy stereotype of Victorian England but is unconventionally humorous, gritty and not at all tame in confronting poverty, greed and issues of unfairness in society: themes that will strikingly resonate with modern audiences.
This adaptation and the large size of the cast make it the perfect edition for the thousands of school performances which are held across the country each year during the holiday season. Unique to this adaptation, playwright Gary Own fills in the missing details in Scrooge’s background to explain his miserliness: how he was sent to a workhouse as a boy, starved, beaten and nearly worked to death. The Constable character from the workhouse then haunts Scrooge and appears every time he chooses money over humanity.
A Midsummer Night's Dream
A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare adapted by Carl Heap
This series of Primary Classics is produced by the UK’s National Theatre and aims to introduce young children aged 7+ to Shakespeare by combining clear story-telling with strong theatrical magic
This version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, adapted and abridged by director Carl Heap, preserves the core of Shakespeare’s plot, retains the original language, yet is presented very much with the target age group in mind
And Carl Heap’s inspiring introduction will help readers, teachers, and practitioners to imagine, produce, and stage their own version
‘…in the night, imagining some fear, How easy is a bush supposed a bear!’
With all the dark undercurrents of the traditional fairytale, Shakespeare weaves in farce, slapstick, romance and revelry into some of his most lyrical poetry to create what is perhaps his most joyous play
Runs about 70 minutes
A Monster Calls
by Adam Peck & Sally Cookson from Patrick Ness
Published by Walker Books Ltd
Large Mixed Cast
Winner Olivier Award for Best Entertainment and Family
Visionary director Sally Cookson brings the bestselling novel by Patrick Ness to the stage and tells the stunning story of love, loss and courage anew
Conor has the same dream every night, ever since his mother first fell ill, ever since she started treatments that don’t quite seem to be working
But tonight is different
Tonight, when he wakes, there’s a visitor at his window
An ancient, elemental, a force of nature
And it wants the most dangerous thing of all from Conor
It wants the truth
Advent Journey
Advent Journey by Ken Pickering
A Christmas musical show featuring an Advent Calendar with characters and objects appearing from the windows, taking the form of a journey towards the light at Bethlehem in an otherwise dark world
The play runs about 45 minutes and can be staged in almost any space using just simple props, or else a formal set with lavish costumes
Casting is also flexible and almost all parts can be play by either male or female
And the option to double-up, redistribute lines, and use additional musicians and dancers, makes it an ideal choice for Primary School, Drama School or Church Christmas production where it can be performed by a class, mixed age cast, or by adults for an audience of children
Aesop’s Fable-ous Christmas Tree
Aesop’s Fable-ous Christmas Tree by Michael Gravois
Aesop’s fables are given a festive spin …
There’s a mash-up of The Twelve Days of Christmas and The Tortoise and the Hare, where the six birds of Christmas compete in a comical race — with the turtle dove winning, of course. And a tiny snow mouse teaches the abominable snowman that little friends may prove great friends. Ebenezer Scrooge realizes that wealth unused might as well not exist. Santa’s elves dream of a life outside the workshop as they sing a “patter poem” about their ideal careers. And even though the eight reindeer panic when Rudolph gets a cold in the nose, they learn that necessity is the mother of invention
These dozen vignettes illuminate important life lessons by re-inventing the classic fables, blending humor, rhythmic elements, rapping, puppetry, poetry, song and storytelling to create a fast-paced, fun-filled show that’s filled with Christmas spirit.
8 to 50 gender-neutral roles
Single set – runs about 60 mins
Alice in Wonderland
Alice in Wonderland adapted by William Glennon from the book by Lewis Carroll
This new version for stage is so close to the original in intention and feeling that you might suspect that Carroll himself had written it! And yet, it includes many unusual and imaginative staging devices.
A group of performers seeks out Alice in order to provide “her turn” in Wonderland. And, as her adventure unfolds, they play the many characters she encounters and grows to love.
Area staging – cast of 8 to 13 characters
All the Discworld's a Stage - Unseen Academicals & Feet of Clay & The Rince Cycle
All the Discworld’s a Stage – Unseen Academicals & Feet of Clay & The Rince Cycle
Published by Oberon
Large Mixed Cast
Stephen Briggs skillfully brings Terry Pratchett’s Discworld to the Stage
The three plays in the Collection are …
Feet of Clay
Someone is killing Lord Vetinari, Patrician of Ankh-Morpork
No one knows who, no one knows why and, worst of all, no one knows how he just gets weaker and weaker
But it’s not just Vetinari
Across the city, people are being murdered, but there’s no trace of anything alive having been at the crime scene
Commander Vimes, Head of the City Watch, is a man who hates ‘clues’
He and his team must question everyone the butcher, the baker, the candlestick maker
In a city teeming with vampires, werewolves, dwarfs with attitude and golems, Vimes must solve the crimes and save the Patrician.
The Rince Cycle
As a punishment, failed wizard Rincewind is given the task of guiding and safeguarding the Disc’s first tourist, Twoflower (with his magical luggage on legs)
As they travel the city and beyond, they meet the world’s oldest hero, Cohen the Barbarian
With him, and with Bethan (a qualified sacrificial victim), they encounter druids, trolls, adventurers, a hairdresser and a power-crazed wizard
Oh, and Death
But not fatally
And did we mention that Rincewind also has to save the world from destruction by a huge Red Star destined to collide with the Discworld at Hogswatch?
The Rince Cycle is mostly based on The Light Fantastic, with bits of The Colour of Magic and Sourcery added for good measure
Unseen Academicals
‘Two households, both alike in dignity, in fair Ankh-Morpork, where we lay our scene’
Football divides the city
Each area has its own team and rivalry means supporters never mix
Until a Dimwell fan falls for a Dolly Sisters girl
And now an ancient bequest means the Wizards of Unseen University must win a football match
Without using magic
Luckily they’re coached by the mysterious Mr Nutt – no one knows anything much about Mr Nutt, not even Mr Nutt
As the match approaches, four lives are entangled and changed forever
Because the thing about football the important thing about football is that it is not just about football
As She Likes It
As She Likes It
by Karen Ruch – Editor
Published by Dramatic Publishing
Large Mixed Cast
As She Likes It is an anthology of 8 short plays featuring famous and familiar women from Shakespeare’s canon
Women who have had muted voices in the Bard’s plays
But in As She Likes It they take center stage
Here, the female characters boldly step outside of the male-dominated context of their original works, sometimes into another time and place, where they discuss the choices they made and how they navigated the power structures that controlled their lives
The result is a unique full-length theatrical experience offering great roles for women
And also opportunities for thoughtful scene study, opening a larger conversation about how these women’s stories still resonate in our lives
The 8 short plays are …
- The Shrew Must Go On ~ Lori M Myers
- A Women’s Battle ~ Sean Adams
- Another Conversation ~ Marjorie Bicknell
- Beatriz … If You Speak of Love ~ David Nice
- The Lear Sisters ~ Sue Lange
- Dance
- Haircuts ~ Barbara Trainin Blank
- The Nurse’s Rebellion ~ Sandra Fenichel Asher
CAST
M0,F4-18 + 1 or 2 either gender
Carpe Jugulum
Carpe Jugulum
by Stephen Briggs from Terry Pratchett
Published by Samuel French Ltd
Large Mixed Cast
The de Magpyrs are the sort of vampires that would have Count Dracula spinning in his grave …
They’re modern, forward-looking and no longer afraid of holy water, garlic and religious symbols
Or, indeed, of anything else
This makes them very, very dangerous
Luckily for the Discworld, the three Lancre witches are on hand
And the battle is on!
Charley's Aunt - A Victorian Farce in Two Acts
by Paul Thain from Brandon Thomas
Published by Stageplays
6 Male 4 Female
“The World’s most popular Comedy”
Charley’s Aunt was a hugely popular vintage farce
It was first performed at the Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds in February 1892 and quickly transferred to London’s Globe Theatre where it broke the record for the world’s longest-running play, clocking up 1,466 performances
But although the central conceit is as theatrical and funny as ever, after more than a 120 years, its three-act structure and laboured humour urgently needed a make-over
And here it is!
“A chap in the bedroom? In need of hairpins?”
This New Version by Paul Thain retains all the fun of the original but re-works it for a modern audience, conflating the original three acts to two and enlivening the stale dialogue to give much needed pace and energy
“Tell her she’s pretty. They all like that. Even when they’re not. Especially when they’re not.”
And it’s still Royalty Free!
Provided you purchase a cast-size quantity of Paperback scripts (12+), as a gift to the theatre community, Paul Thain has waived his Royalties for all of 2021
It’s still set in an Oxford college in 1892 where Charles (Charley) Wykeham uses the imminent arrival of his aunt Donna Lucia as an opportunity to invite two young ladies to his rooms for lunch
“We need to impress, Brassett. A cheese and pickle sandwich will not do.”
But when her visit is postponed and they’re without a chaperone, rather than cancel the lunch party, Charley and Jack persuade their fellow student Lord Fancourt to impersonate the Aunt
Lord Fancourt relishes the opportunity and particularly enjoys being kissed by the girls and sharing their confidences
So much so, he stubbornly refuses to abandon his role
But then the real Donna Lucia turns up …
REVIEWS
“Really Funny” ~ Mobile Theatre
“Who doesn’t love a good farce?” ~ North West End UK
“We’re so excited to show it to people … the script is hilarious and so funny ~ Jimmy Walters, Proudhaddock Productions
AUDIENCE 1: Believe it or not, the Second Act is even funnier
AUDIENCE 2: Oh man, I’d better go to the bathroom then – the First Act already made me ’bout pee my pants!”
~ Intermission conversation, Stained Glass Theatre, Joplin, USA
Cinderella and The Wonderful Wizard of Oz - Re-Imagined & Re-Twisted
by Sally Cookson & Caroline Bird
Published by Oberon
Large Mixed Cast
This BARGAIN BUNDLE offers two acclaimed plays for young people:
THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ – Re-Imagined & Re-Twisted
Large Mixed Cast
Caroline Bird from L Frank Baum
A cyclone sweeps a young girl and her cheeky little dog Toto far-far away from their grey, boring lives
She didn’t mean for her house to land on the Wicked Witch of the East
But here she is, in the Land of Oz, ready for an adventure
Along the yellow brick road to the Emerald City she meets plenty of new friends like Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion
And a few enemies
But in just one day, this little girl revolutionizes an entire nation
She brings freedom and colour
Her name is Dorothy
And she’d rather keep her trainers than wear Ruby slippers
Expect magic and mayhem in this brand new version of the classic children’s story for adventurers aged 7+ (and their families)
CINDERELLA – A Fairytale
3 Male, 2 Female
Sally Cookson & Adam Peck
Winner of a 2014 Off West End Award and Nominated for an Olivier Award
This stage version of Cinderella has captivated audiences with its dazzlingly original take on one of the oldest and best-loved fairytales of all times
When Ella’s mother dies, she’s brought up by her devoted and loving father who teaches her the names and calls of the woodland birds that surround their home
But when her father marries again, Ella’s peaceful life is turned upside down by a host of new and unpleasant relations
It appears her only allies are the feathered friends who roost in the trees
But these are no ordinary birds
With crystal-clear storytelling, this classic tale of fortunes reversed is brought startlingly and imaginatively to fresh life
This is a play to enchant all ages
REVIEWS
” … funny, heart-warming and beautiful piece of stage craft. This Cinderella is a treat” ~ Independent
“This non-panto fairy-tale is so bewitching that you’d gladly watch it in a heat wave … A modern classic that ends with a kiss, an embrace, and a puff on an inhaler … low on syrup and full of magic” ~ The Times
” … a real classic, an exquisite Cinderella for all seasons that gets right to the heart of the story and offers its own delicious and surprising twists … This is not just a great Christmas show, but a great night for all times and ages” ~ Lyn Gardner, Guardian
Dragon Trouble
Dragon Trouble by D.M. Larson
Susie Sally Sassafras and her fairy friends like to make a lot of trouble. They decide to create problems in the peaceful kingdom of Chalupa. The play has a flexible cast with anywhere from 8 characters to dozens of parts.
Watch a video of this play here.
Emil and the Detectives
Emil and the Detectives by Carl Miller from Erich Kastner
If Mrs Tischbein had known the amazing adventures her son Emil would have in Berlin, she’d never have let him go. Emil is excited to be taking the train on his own for the first time. He doesn’t like the look of his fellow passenger, the man in the bowler hat. Emil will just have to keep his wits about him and his money in his pocket. But Emil falls asleep and when he wakes up the man in the bowler hat is gone – and so is the money! Emil is determined to get it back. He teams up with a gang of young detectives and so begins a hair-raising chase across Berlin to catch the dirty rotten thief…
Suitable for children age 7 and above
First produced at the UK’s National Theatre in 2013
Erich Kästner was a German author, poet, screenwriter and satirist, known primarily for his humorous, socially astute poetry and children’s literature. For the latter contributions he received the biennial, international Hans Christian Andersen Award in 1960. Carl Miller was the Artistic Director of the Young People’s programme at the Royal Court Theatre from 1997 to 1999. Since 2002, he has been the Literary Manager of the Unicorn Theatre. He was textual advisor on Phyllida Lloyd’s production of Webster’s THE DUCHESS OF MALFI at the National Theatre in 2003.
Fantastic Mr Fox
Roald Dahl’s much-loved story follows the vain attempts of three farmers, Boggis, Bunce and Bean, one fat, one short, one lean, to get rid of the fox who regularly steals food from their farms. They try to kill him by any means possible. Outwitted at every turn, the farmer’s ploys backfire.
crossorigin="anonymous">
This enthralling story by Roald Dahl, adapted for the stage by David Wood, can be performed by a small company of experienced actors supported by a large number of community and child actors
“Another excellent adaptation of Roald Dahl’s children’s classic by David Wood . . designed to capture fertile imaginations with its appealing storyline and simple language, no wonder it is a hit” – The Stage
“This is a fantastic show to be enjoyed by kids of all ages” – Coventry Evening Telegraph
Father Christmas and Uncle Holly
by Alison Hedger
Published by Cyberpress
Large Mixed Cast
Did you know that Father Christmas has a twin brother called Uncle Holly?
This happy story with seven happy songs reveals the well-kept secret of the twin brothers
We also meet the army of red and green elves and learn about the secret snow tunnel
And how the elves spend their Christmas morning now all the toys are finished
And what Uncle Holly and Father Christmas do for their Christmas dinner
And how they spend Christmas afternoon
Lots of action and plenty of accompaniment on pots and pans!
For children in toddler and play groups, nurseries, pre-school, reception classes and Key Stage 1
It’s also suitable for older children with learning difficulties
Runs about 20 mins
SONG LIST:
FATHER CHRISTMAS
UNCLE HOLLY
SAW, HAMMER, PAINT AND GLUE
TRAMPING ALONG
FILLING UP THE SACKS
PLAY IN THE SNOW
LAUGH AND SING AND DO A DANCE
This is the PDF SCRIPT
.jpg)
Grease (full script)
by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey
Full Length, Musical / Characters: 9m, 8f
Here is Rydell High’s senior class of 1959: duck-tailed, hot-rodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gum-snapping, hip-shaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby sox and pedal pushers, evoking the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical. Head “greaser” Danny Zuko and new (good) girl Sandy Dumbrowski try to relive the high romance of their “Summer Nights” as the rest of the gang sings and dances its way through such songs as “Greased Lightnin'”, “It’s Raining on Prom Night”, “Alone at the Drive-In Movie” recalling the music of Buddy Holly, Little Richard and Elvis Presley that became the soundtrack of a generation. An 8-year run on Broadway and two subsequent revivals along with innumerable school and community productions place Grease among the world’s most popular musicals. “A lively and funny musical–as well as the dancingest one in town…it’s a winner…the songs are dandies [that portray] the early rockers with zip and charm…the sheer energy of Grease carries all before it.” – N.Y. Daily News
Grease (script) - for schools
by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey
Full Length, Musical/ Characters: 9m, 9f
ABRIDGED VERSION FOR SCHOOL PRODUCTIONS
Groups who perform for young audiences or produce musicals with young actors now have an ideal version of GREASE for their needs. Shorter and more suitable in content for teens and subteens, this abridged version retains the fun-loving spirit and immortal songs that make GREASE a favorite among rock and roll fans of all ages. Here is Rydell High’s senior class of 1959: duck-tailed, hot-rodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gum-snapping, hip-shaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby sox and pedal pushers, evoking the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical. Head “greaser” Danny Zuko and new (good) girl Sandy Dumbrowski try to relive the high romance of their “Summer Nights” as the rest of the gang sings and dances its way through such songs as “Greased Lightnin'”, “It’s Raining on Prom Night”, “Alone at the Drive-In Movie” recalling the music of Buddy Holly, Little Richard and Elvis Presley that became the soundtrack of a generation. An 8-year run on Broadway and two subsequent revivals along with innumerable school and community productions place Grease among the world’s most popular musicals.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child - Parts One & Two
by Jack Thorne from J.K. Rowling & John Tiffany
Published by Little Brown
Large Mixed Cast
Tony Award for Best Play 2018
Winner of the Olivier Award for Best Play 2017
Winner of the Evening Standard Award for Best Play 2016
Now everyone can delight in the latest Harry Potter adventure…
The eighth instalment of the Harry Potter saga is not a novel but instead a two-part play by Jack Thorne based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling and director John Tiffany
This 350 page Paperback Edition is the complete script of both Parts 1 & 2 of the Original West End Production
The play is set nineteen years after the events of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and follows Harry and his youngest son Albus Severus Potter
As we all know, being Harry Potter has never been easy
But now he must contend with being an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, a husband, and a father of three school children
Harry struggles to keep his past buried and move on
And young Albus struggles to bear the weight of the family legacy
A legacy he doesn’t want
And when the Past fuses with the Present, father and son must both face an ominous truth
REVIEWS
“A compelling, stay-up-all-night read … The suspense here is electric and nonstop” ~ The New York Times
“Fans can breathe easy knowing this play has been respectfully and lovingly wrought. Tensions thrum, spells fly but at center stage, as always in the Potterverse, is the overriding importance of love and friendship, especially in the face of danger” ~ Booklist
“Whether encountered on stage or on the page, this trip back into the magical world of Hogwarts is thrilling” ~ Telegraph
Hogfather
by Stephen Briggs from Terry Pratchett
Published by Methuen
Large Mixed Cast
Superstition makes things work in the Discworld and undermining it can have serious consequences
Hogfather begins the night before Hogswatch, the last night of the year
Time is turning
And it’s much too quiet
Worse …
Death is creeping down chimneys and trying to say “Ho Ho Ho”
And if Susan – gothic governess and Death’s granddaughter (sort of) – doesn’t sort everything out by morning, there won’t be a morning
Ever again
A wittily and faithfully adaptation of Pratchett’s bestselling Discworld novel.
Holka Polka
Holka Polka by D.M. Larson
Join a good little witch who sets out to save Fairy Tale land with the help of the Big Bad Wolf and Cinderella. This a Fairy Tale Mystery that puts a new twist on some famous fables such as Humpty Dumpty, Pinocchio, Little Red Riding Hood, The Wizard of Oz and Hansel and Gretel – 6+ female, 2+ male, 11+ either and optional extras
Interesting Times
Interesting Times
by Stephen Briggs from Terry Pratchett
Published by Methuen
Large Mixed Cast
The Discworld’s most inept wizard has been sent from Unseen University in Ankh-Morpork to the oppressive Agatean Empire to help some well-intentioned rebels overthrow the Emperor
He’s assisted by toy-rabbit-wielding rebels, an army of terracotta warriors, a tax gatherer and a group of seven very elderly barbarian heroes lead by Cohen the Barbarian
Opposing him, though, is the evil and manipulative Lord Hong and his army of 750,000 men
Oh … Rincewind is also aided by Twoflower – Discworld’s first tourist and the author of a subversive book, about his visit to Ankh-Morpork, which has inspired the rebels in their struggle for freedom
“One of the funniest authors alive” Independent
Jack and the Beanstalk
Jack and the Beanstalk by Paul Kalburgi
Large mixed cast
The classic pantomime re-imagined!
Sing, shout, boo and cheer as our hero Jack journeys to the top of the beanstalk in search of his fortune and a better life for him and his sick mother
But Jack is not the only one seeking his fortune…
… his wicked Aunt Verruca and crazy new cousin Dame Dilly Dally are hot on his heels!
Meanwhile, on the eve of the Princess of Diamonds’ birthday party, the King of Spades has threatened the entire village of Lillyshaw with a demolition order if his precious golden items are not returned
Jack is guided on his adventure by good and bad fairies Virtue and Jeopardy, but when he finally reaches the top of the stalk things aren’t quite what … or who they seem!
Good wins over evil and he who dares to venture into this strange new world shall be rewarded with riches … and true love!
Complete with Pat the pantomime cow, Tom, Dick and Harry the three palace jesters
And of course, those magic beans!
TO READ THE OPENING SCENES, click here
Johnny and the Dead
Johnny and the Dead
by Stephen Briggs from Terry Pratchett
Published by Oxford University Press
Large Mixed Cast
When Johnny Maxwell visits the local cemetery, he discovers that he can see the dead
He can talk to them, too – much to his friends’ amazement!
So when the news breaks that the local council plans to sell the cemetery to a property developer, Johnny learns that there are some things in life (and death) that are worth fighting for …
Features
The Oxford Playscripts series offers exciting and skilful adaptations of a range of major novels and also includes …
* New, innovative activities specifically tailored for Key Stage 3 English & Drama – 11-14 year old students)
* Activities include work on Speaking and Listening, close text analysis and the structure of playscripts, and as a springboard for personal writing
* Insights into the plays from their distinguished authors and adapters
* Advice on staging
* Speaking parts: 6 male; 18 female; 5 either
Little Red Riding Hood - Grandmother's Tale
by Max Bush
Published by Dramatic Publishing
Large Mixed Cast
This version is based on the oral tale The Grandmother’s Tale (pre-1690) & Little Red Riding Hood by Charles Perrault (1697) and Little Red Cap by the Brothers Grimm (1812)
Long before Perrault wrote down his moralistic version of Little Red Riding Hood the story The Grandmother’s Tale was told and retold across Europe
Perrault altered the story by making Little Red younger and putting a red cape on her, thus alerting the world that this was a child at risk
And by having the wolf – a Werewolf in the oral tale – gobble up Little Red, Perrault’s alterations violently changed the meaning and intent of the tale
In the original story, a mother sends a girl of indeterminate age into the deep forest to bring a basket of food to the girl’s grandmother
She encounters a wolf, who is pleasing to her, and she imparts the information about where she is going and what path she is taking
The wolf arrives first and pretends to be Granny by getting into bed
When the girl arrives, she recognizes the wolf and matches wits with him
This adaptation incorporates elements from all three versions but is primarily based on The Grandmother’s Tale, the closest version of the oral story.
It is told with a direct focus on the overall meanings of the original tale as well as with a sense of mystery, play and humour
CAST M6,F7 (flexible)
Runs about 55 minutes
Lords and Ladies
Lords and Ladies
by Irana Brown from Terry Pratchett
Published by Samuel French Ltd
Large Mixed Cast
The Lancre witches, Granny Weatherwax and Nanny Ogg, are the Discworld’s only hope of rescue when elves threaten to take control with their hypnotic “glamour”
Standing stones; wizards; Morris men and Rude Mechanicals; country lore and ancient magic
These are all elements of this hilarious, fast-moving and exciting adaptation of Terry Pratchett’s well-loved novel
CAST : M18,F9
Macbeth
Macbeth by William Shakespeare adapted by Carl Heap
This version of Macbeth, adapted and abridged by director Carl Heap, preserves the core of Shakespeare’s plot, retains the original language, yet is presented very much with the target age group in mind
And Carl Heap’s inspiring introduction will help readers, teachers, and practitioners to imagine, produce, and stage their own version.
Making Money
Making Money
by Stephen Briggs from Terry Pratchett
Published by Samuel French Ltd
Large Mixed Cast
Lord Vetinari wants to overhaul the banks of Ankh-Morpork so he appoints former con-man Albert Spangler, aka Moist von Lipwig, to the position of Mater of the Royal Mint, attached to a senior post at the Bank of Ankh-Morpork
Then Mrs Lavish, the bank manager, dies, leaving her dog Mr Fusspot – who also happens to be the majority shareholder – to Moist
Suddenly he finds himself in charge, and his life being threatened by resentful members of the Lavish family
His talent for a swindle soon has customers queuing up, but when the chairman of the bank needs to be taken out for walkies and its chief cashier may or may not be a vampire, making money is not always easy
M19 F10 + Extras – Various simple settings
“As bright and shiny as a newly minted coin; clever, engaging and laugh-out-loud funny” ~ The Times
Maskerade
Maskerade
by Stephen Briggs from Terry Pratchett
Published by Samuel French Ltd
Large Mixed Cast
All is not well in the Ankh-Morpork Opera House
A ghost stalks the dark corridors, leaving strange letters for the management
And killing people!
Granny Weatherwax and Nanny Ogg, two Lancre witches, investigate
And are soon involved in all kinds of skulduggery, mayhem and ear-splittingly loud singing
Quirky and original characters, a labyrinthine plot and numerous witty one-liners make this a treat for Discworld fans and ‘uninitiated’ theatregoers alike.
No Stable Too Small - Fifteen Christmas Plays for Churches of All Sizes
No Stable Too Small – Fifteen Christmas Plays for Churches of All Sizes
This great value festive Collection offers no fewer than 15 Christmas plays
These humorous, down-to-earth plays each bring a fresh perspective to the Christmas story through such creative devices as imagining the thoughts and feelings of fringe characters (like an innkeeper or a servant or one of the magi)
Or by updating the story with contemporary settings and characters
It also offers a variety of practical material for a range of situations – from shorter plays with small casts and lines that can be easily mastered by younger children to more elaborate pieces with sophisticated themes for older children and adults
The flexible scenes are especially valuable for small congregations that lack the resources to mount large-scale productions
No sets are required, and only simple costumes and minimal props are needed
And with a running time of about 20 minutes each, it’s easy to fit them within a Christmas Eve or Advent Sunday worship service
TITLES INCLUDE:
No Stable Too Small
Love Finds a Way
It Wasn’t the Hilton, You Know
Christmas Eve at Angel School
Because God Said So, That’s Why
No Small Parts
“Unto Us a Child Is Born”
Miracles? No Problem!
And seven more!
O'Bannion's Gold
by Jean Goodman
Published by Cyberpress
Large Mixed Cast
In mystic old Ireland mortals live alongside magic: cursing witches, fallen angels, ‘human’ worms, a dreaded Great Banshee and a leprechaun kingdom guarding its precious pot of gold!
Two children of very poor families eventually kidnap the leprechaun King for ransom
Do they return home safely, get the gold or what?
In a charming original family friendly play — destined to be an old Irish or St. Patrick’s Day evergreen production – two young people encounter mysterious creatures and battle dangers unknown in modern times to learn invaluable lessons
There is magic, suspense, bravery, fighting, singing, dancing, a hint of romance and much laughter!
O’Bannion’s Gold has enjoyed several successful performances and now awaits your own magical touch in a new production!
Our Teacher's a Troll
by Dennis Kelly
Published by Oberon
Large Mixed Cast
Once upon a time, not so very long ago, there were two terrible twins called Holly and Sean who got up to all kinds of mischief
Once upon a time, not so very long ago, there were two terrible twins called Holly and Sean who got up to all kinds of mischief
In fact, they were so badly behaved at school that the Head Teacher, Mrs Spike, had a nervous breakdown and was found in the sand pit eating sand and mooing like a cow
The twins were extremely pleased with themselves
That is, until the new Head Teacher arrived
You see, the new Head Teacher was a –
– a Troll
Yes, that’s right
A Troll
And this Troll Head Teacher soon created all kinds of mad new rules for both pupils and teachers
Can Holly and Sean save the day and stop the Troll from eating their classmates and Teachers?
Can naughtiness be restored to its rightful and proper place?
And will brussels sprouts and peanut butter ever be taken off the menu?
This gleefully nasty tale of triumph over adversity for the over-sevens is full of worms, horribly clever sound effects of children being chewed up, purple tongues, jokes at the expense of ineffectual adults
And worse – after the troll has eaten little Tommy Anderson his burps smell of the poor child’s feet!
This is simple but cracking storytelling for two actors and one Troll encourages audience interactivity
Great fun – suitable for all children, young and old
CAST
Mixed Ensemble Cast (flexible) – 2 Actors + 1 Troll
REVIEWS
“Funny and unpatronising. Comic perfection” ~ The Times
“All of the wit, grotesque humour and naughtiness of Dahl’s best” ~ WhatsOnStage
“A celebration of naughtiness and questioning, it’s a raucous, skin-crawling treat” ~ Guardian
‘[The solution] is a far superior moral twist, one that mocks self-aggrandising authority and finds the value of understanding an alien culture – while giving the production space for pure adrenaline fun all the way’ ~ Stage
“An hilarious dark fable” ~ Herald
.jpg)
Papa Panov's Magic Christmas - PDF
by Paul Thain from Leo Tolstoy
Published by Cyberpress
Large Mixed Cast
Papa Panov is an old shoemaker, now almost too blind to thread a needle
On Christmas Eve he has a dream that Jesus will visit him on Christmas Day
Eager and anxious, he waits all day
But his only visitors are a tramp, a road sweeper, and a pauper woman with her cold and hungry baby
Despite his disappointment and fading hope, Papa Panov gives them his coat, his money, his soup
And even the tiny shoes he was saving as a present for Baby Jesus
Night falls and his special visitor still hasn’t arrived
Papa Panov thinks himself a silly, old fool
But then he has another dream …
A dream which convinces him his special visitor did come after all
Adapted from a short story by Leo Tolstoy, Papa Panov’s Magic Christmas makes a perfect play for Christmas
It can involve any number of children and it runs about 25 minutes
Playscripts for Primary Schools: A Resource Pack of Scripts for Adaptation
Playscripts for Primary Schools moves beyond the traditional end-of-year or Christmas production to show that working together with variously sized groups of pupils can be a valuable curricular activity. The author’s playscripts can be used for many purposes e.g. to reinforce or introduce history topics, for group writing exercises, to build co-operation and problem-solving skills and a way of opening up discussions on any range of topics. The playscripts can also be customised to suit individual schools and location, and to include opportunity for improvisation.
Rightyville Vs Leftyland - The Hopeful Handshake
by Tom DeMuro
Published by Cyberpress
Large Mixed Cast
Though located side-by-side, the citizens of Rightyville and Leftyland have allowed some very basic differences to divide them
Beliefs as simple as their choice of dominant hand, colors they choose to wear, music they like to listen to and the food they prefer to eat etc, have built an invisible wall between them
With the help of an unlikely courageous individual, the people of Rightyville and Leftyland begin to view their lives through a much clearer lens
Very large mixed cast
Runs about 60 minutes
Sci-Fi Scenes and Monster Dreams - 16 ROYALTY-FREE Comedy Scenes for Student Actors
by Jan Peterson Ewen
Published by Meriwether
Large Mixed Cast
These highly creative and imaginative scenes will produce out-of-this-world laughs for both actors and audience
The 16-scene collection includes original stories as well as spoofs of popular movies, books, and television shows
Perfect for classroom use or performance, these sketches include 2 to 6 (or even more!) actors and run 5 to 10 minutes
Actors of all ages and experience levels will appreciate the many roles that can be played by either gender
In addition to containing laugh-out-loud scenes, this valuable resource also focuses on important acting skills such as comedic timing, pantomime, using accents, and physical characterization
Student actors will love playing a wide variety of characters, such as:
· Comical monsters
· Socially awkward robots
· Powerful wizards
· Courageous superheroes
· Mad scientists
· Charismatic talking dogs
· Adventurous space explorers
· And many more!
Complete production notes make it easy to bring these skits to life onstage
And they can all be performed Royalty-free!
Stone Soup
by Paul Thain
Published by Samuel French Ltd
Large Mixed Cast
This contemporary re-telling of an ancient folk-story uses allegory and humour to explore major challenges of our time
It begins when the wise Sophia enters a starving Village and declares she will feed everyone with her magical soup
But first Makomo must follow the Star and persuade Mr & Mrs North to give up their control of the Giant Cooking Pot
They finally agree and soon the Giant Cooking Pot begins to boil and bubble
Hungry and curious, the Villagers gather around
Sophia asks them to each contribute a stone to help make her soup
They think she’s mad
But their children quickly oblige
And – as if by magic – the soup begins to acquire a delicious taste and smell!
But when Sophia speaks of peace and justice, the fearsome General Mayhem marches into the Village and orders Major Hazard to seize the soup and place it under military control
Sophia faces the firing squad and all seems lost
But the human spirit finally prevails and the Play ends with a dance and the hope of a new beginning
Stone Soup - PDF
by Paul Thain
Published by Cyberpress
Large Mixed Cast
This contemporary re-telling of an ancient folk-story uses allegory and humour to explore major challenges of our time
The wise Sophia enters a starving Village and declares she will feed everyone with her magical soup
But first Makomo must follow the Star and persuade Mr & Mrs North to give up control of the Giant Cooking Pot
They finally agree and soon the Giant Cooking Pot begins to boil and bubble
Hungry and curious, the Villagers gather around and Sophia asks them to each contribute a stone to help make her soup
They think she’s mad – but their children quickly oblige
And – as if by magic – the soup begins to acquire a delicious taste and smell!
But when Sophia speaks of peace and justice, the fearsome General Mayhem marches into the Village and orders Major Hazard to seize the soup and place it under military control
Sophia faces the firing squad and now all seems lost
But the human spirit finally prevails and the Play ends with a dance and the hope of a new beginning
It runs about 60 minutes
The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents
by Stephen Briggs from Terry Pratchett
Published by Oxford University Press
Large Mixed Cast
Maurice is no ordinary cat – he’s amazing, he can think, he can talk …
… and he has an amazing scam going
All he needs to pull it off is an army of intelligent rats and one stupid-looking kid
But when his gang enter Bad Blintz, the town they have decided to con next, they soon realize that all is not as it should be – and decide to investigate
Three squads of rats spread out under the town, their mission to dismantle traps, bury poison, do some serious widdling, and to find out exactly what those resident rat-catchers are up to …
Features
The Oxford Playscripts series offers exciting and skilful adaptations of a range of major novels and also includes …
* New, innovative activities specifically tailored for Key Stage 3 English & Drama and 11-14 year old students
* Activities include work on Speaking and Listening, close text analysis and the structure of playscripts, and as a springboard for personal writing
* Insights into the plays from their distinguished authors and adapters
* Advice on staging
* Speaking parts: 18 male; 4 female; 12 either
The Brave Little Tailor
by Brian Guehring from the Brothers Grimm
Published by Dramatic Publishing
Large Mixed Cast
A mischievous and silly Jester introduces the audience to a young tailor who has been looked down on his entire life because he is small
This meek village tailor is bullied by his boss, smothered by his mother, and harassed by his customers
He does, however, dream of fighting dragons
And during one vivid fantasy he manages to kill seven flies in one blow
This achievement is half-heard and half-understood and soon the rumours spreading around the village get exaggerated until the King hears of a tailor who can kill seven Giants in one blow!
The tailor is then brought before the King and his beautiful stepdaughter
Now the tailor must find his own true courage
With the help of the Princess and the Jester he battles a rampaging unicorn, two troublesome giants, and a fierce dragon
Flexible staging, runs about 60 minutes
The Christmas Cracker & Who Is Welcome? - Two Christmas Plays
The Christmas Cracker & Who Is Welcome? – Two Christmas Plays by Jenifer Hillman
The Christmas Cracker
Mother writes a letter to Santa, asking him to help her children find the spirit of Christmas.Santa sends his Sprite, who travels in an enormous Christmas cracker, and who gives the children five crackers to pull. Each cracker contains a different scene showing people giving at Christmas, and the play ends in the stable where, surrounded by the traditional Nativity characters.
Cast : 38 ( mostly variable m/f ) + shepherds, angels etc
Suggested Age Range : 5 to 8 – runs about 45 minutes
Music : Various Christmas songs throughout
Set : Home; Santa’s workshop; in the sky; the soup kitchen; Bethlehem (One Christmas-style backdrop would suffice)
Who Is Welcome?
This is the story of a group of aliens who, whilst following the Christmas star, crash-land on Earth. Here they meet a variety of characters, pirates, animals, kings and shepherds all travelling to Bethlehem to see the new-born king. Worried that they are either too dirty, strange or wicked, they are relieved to find that all are welcome in the stable.
Cast : 36 ( mostly variable m/f ) + shepherds, angels etc
Suggested Age Range : 5 to 8 – runs about 45 – 50 minutes
Music : Various Christmas songs throughout; a suggested list is provided
Set : In a spaceship; in the woods; the stable, or can be played with a backdrop of woods throughout
The Fifth Elephant
The Fifth Elephant
by Stephen Briggs from Terry Pratchett
Published by Methuen
Large Mixed Cast
In this stage adaptation of one of Pratchett’s best-selling novels, Commander Vimes is sent to wild, wintry and Transylvania-like Uberwald to establish trade links with the King of the Dwarfs but he ends up trying to stop and inter-species war
On his side though, is a talking dog, a reformed vampyre and a self-made man. You can tell he’s self-made because the stitches still show
Vimes may have arrived as Ankh-Morpork’s ambassador but he soon finds it’s not all golden chocolate balls. Now he’s an escaped prisoner – out in the icy woods, wearing only the gloomy trousers of Uncle Vanya and being chased by a pack of fascist werewolves who don’t play by the rules
REVIEWS
“One of the funniest authors alive” ~ The Independent
The Island of Dr Libris
by Chris Grabenstein & Ronny Venable
Published by Dramatic Publishing
Large Mixed Cast
The Island of Dr Libris celebrates the power of imagination with an action-packed adventure that shows that sometimes the real story starts after you close the book!
What if your favorite literary characters came to life?
Billy’s spending the summer in a lakeside cabin that belongs to the mysterious Dr Libris
But something strange is going on …
Besides the security cameras everywhere, there’s Dr Libris’ private bookcase
Whenever Billy opens the classic books inside, he can hear sounds coming from the island in the middle of the lake
The clash of swords
The twang of arrows
The chatter of characters
Sometimes Billy can even feel the ground shaking!
It’s almost as if the stories he’s reading are coming to life
But that’s impossible
Or is it?
Before long, Dr Libris’ island is populated by some of the most famous characters in all of literature: Hercules, Robin Hood, Maid Marian, The Three Musketeers, Tom Sawyer and Pollyanna
When these characters mingle, their plot lines get mixed up
And are further complicated by the arrival of a few comic book heroes and villains
It’s up to Billy and his magical imagination to come up with a happy ending for everybody
Including himself!
The Island of Dr Libris harnesses the imaginative powers of live theatre, calling on the audience to use their imaginations along with Billy’s
Runs about 2 hours
The Jungle Book
The Jungle Book by Stuart Paterson, adapted from the book by Rudyard Kipling
Darker than the Disney classic, this is a Jungle Book red in tooth and claw. Packed with great songs and a snappy script, this show knows exactly what the kids want. The story begins with a little boy lost in the jungle. The evil Shere Khan, the tiger, stalks him but before he can kill him, Akela the wolf, and king of the jungle, protects the young boy and takes him in as his own. We follow Mowgli, the boy, as he grows in the wild, learning from his wise teachers, Balu and Bagheera, playing with the monkeys and trying to hide from Shere Khan. As Mowgli grows, he begins to wonder of his life with the men and following a large argument returns to his village where he is faced with yet more alienation and struggle. This is a heart-warming story,that shows the importance of friendship and trust within diversity.
The Phantom Tollbooth
The Phantom Tollbooth adapted by Susan Nanus from the novel by Norman Juster
Large Mixed Cast
Milo is dispatched to rescue the Princesses from the Land of Ignorance
The knowledge and skills Milo picks up on his journey help him to save the Princesses
When he must return home, Milo’s sorry to leave his friends – but enriched by his experience, he realizes his attitude towards learning will never be the same
15 Characters – Male or Female
The Truth
The Truth
by Stephen Briggs from Terry Pratchett
Published by Methuen
Large Mixed Cast
A witty and inventive Stage adaptation of one of Pratchett’s best-selling Discworld novels …
There’s been a murder
Allegedly
William de Worde is the Discworld’s first investigative journalist
He didn’t mean to be – it was just an accident
But as William fills his pages with reports of local club meetings and pictures of humorously shaped vegetables, dark forces in Ankh-Morpork’s society are plotting to overthrow the city’s ruler, Lord Vetinari
The Wind in the Willows - junior play script
The Wind in the Willows (junior play script) is a musical version of Kenneth Grahame’s classic riverside story of Rat, Mole, Badger and Toad.
Keeping faith with the original story, the musical contains 10 catchy and lyrical tunes of differing styles. The story is set in a narrative style with cameo scenes acted out. There are 14 main characters, plus many smaller parts and a chorus.
Runs about an hour and is suitable for Junior Schools (8-12)
The Wind in the Willows adapted by Mike Kenny
The Wind in the Willows adapted by Mike Kenny
This delightful stage adaptation combines all the joy and mystery of Kenneth Grahame’s much-loved classic with the lightness of touch and playful theatricality that award-winning playwright Mike Kenny is known for.
Tired of spring-cleaning, Mole leaves Mole End and ventures out to the riverbank, where he befriends the resourceful Ratty, the gruff Badger and the infamous Toad of Toad Hall (Poop-poop!). Together they explore the Wide World, and the Wild Wood, and try to keep Toad out of trouble…!
With ample opportunities for creativity on stage and wonderful character parts for actors, it is ideal for schools and youth theatres, or any drama groups looking for a fresh new version of an old favourite.
Mike Kenny is one of Britain’s leading children’s playwrights, and was included in the Independent on Sunday‘s list of Top Ten Living UK Playwrights. His adaptation of E. Nesbit’s The Railway Children won an Oliver award for Best Entertainment and has toured worldwide.
The Worst Witch - The Play
by Emma Reeves & Lucy Potter from Jill Murphy
Published by Samuel French Ltd
2020 OLIVIER AWARDS – Best Family Show
Can Mildred Hubble save the world?
This is the long-awaited Stage Adaptation of Jill Murphy’s hugely popular children’s novel The Worst Witch, sure to be a certain hit with young actors and their audiences alike
Mildred is an ordinary girl who found herself in an extraordinary place – a School for Witches
Now in her final year at Miss Cackle’s Academy, accident prone Mildred and her fellow pupils are about to embark on their biggest adventure yet
This begins when Mildred and her friends decide to put on a play about their experiences as witches in training
Mayhem inevitably ensues …
Jealous Ethel Hallow is always out to spoil Mildred’s fun
Stern Miss Hardbroom is opposed to all fun in general
Worst of all, an old enemy returns with a plan for revenge that threatens not just the Academy …
But the entire world!
CAST
Large Cast – All Female
War Horse
War Horse adapted by Nick Stafford from the book by Michael Morpurgo
Winner Tony Award 2011 – Best Play
Nick Stafford’s stage adaptation of the celebrated novel by the Children’s Laureate (2003-5) Michael Morpurgo leads us on a gripping journey through history.
The Oxford Playscripts series offers exciting and skilful adaptations of a range of modern novels and includes:
- New, innovative activities specifically tailored for Key Stage 3 – 11-14 year old students
- Activities include work on Speaking and Listening, close text analysis and the structure of playscripts, and act as a springboard for personal writing
- Insights into the plays themselves by their popular authors and adapters
- Advice on staging
Wyrd Sisters
Wyrd Sisters
by Stephen Briggs from Terry Pratchett
Published by Corgi
Large Mixed Cast
A zany, crazy parody of Macbeth
Terry Pratchett’s wild Discworld humour is brought to the stage in this large cast adaptation where all that stands between the Kingdom and destruction are three Witches
It’s all there – a wicked duke and duchess, the ghost of the murdered king, dim soldiers, strolling players, a land in peril
And who stands between the Kingdom and destruction?
Three witches – Granny Weatherwax (intolerant, self-opinionated, powerful), Nanny Ogg (down-to-earth, vulgar) and Magrat Garlick (naïve, fond of occult jewellery and bunnies)