The Playwrights Database
BRIAN SEWARD
(1957 - )Nationality: British
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Originally trained in science, with a BSc (honours) in Botany, Brian changed direction a decade later by gaining a post-graduate degree in secondary teaching, specialising in Drama and English. From there he worked as Head of Drama in a secondary school in Harlow, Essex. Since 1995 he has worked in Singapore, teaching Drama, helping schools to put on productions, writing and directing plays, and occasionally acting. Since 1999 he has directed, written and produced on average four professional productions a year, including Singapore's first full-length puppet and live action musical, the Magic Paintbrush. the Asian themed Dancing with Dragons played to rave reviews at the Edinburgh Festival 2004, followed by the Rainbow Fish and Under the Dragon Moon in 2007. Other productions appearing outside Singapore include; the Rainbow Fish in India and Australia; the Acorn and Dancing with Dragons in Malaysia, the Little Red Hen in New Jersey, usA. His first children's book - the Magic Paintbrush - was published by Marshall Cavendish International in May 2004.
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below is a list of Brian Seward's plays - click on a Play Title for more information
Acorn, The - the True Story Of Chicken Licken Aesop's Fabulous Fables Dancing with Dragons Duck and Dive Gingerbread Man, The Little Green Frog Little Red Hen Magic Paintbrush, The Moonbird Nightingale, The Rainbow Fish Rainbow Fish 2 - An Ocean Tale Sea Of Dreams Secret of Laughter, The Ugly the Duckling Under the Dragon Moon You Are SpecialAcorn, The - the True Story Of Chicken Licken
Synopsis:
This classic children's story is transformed into a wonderfully catchy musical, with a clear moral, and a twist in the tale. Chicken Licken is honest and straightforward - And there's more than one creature in the Wild Wood who doesn't like that at all. . . When Chicken Licken is struck one day - not by a brilliant idea, but by an acorn; without fully understanding what hit her, Chicken Licken's response is to panic. . . A panic which sets in motion a series of events that no-one could foresee. there are some creatures who manipulate the situation for their own purposes. . . and there are those who would take advantage of the terrified creatures in the wood. Is Chicky brave enough to stand up and admit her mistake? Meet Chicken Licken, Ducky Lucky, Turkey Lurkey, Goose Loose, and the beguiling but slightly sinister Foxy Loxy, amongst others. You may be surprised at who are the good guys; and who are the villains!
Notes:
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1st Produced:
Agf Theatre, Alliance Francaise, Singapore
2005
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageAesop's Fabulous Fables
Synopsis:
Aesop was a Greek poet. Born into a life of slavery, he won his liberty as a reward for his learning and wit. However, his sharp tongue, and sense of justice eventually led to his downfall. Maybe he should have paid more attention to his own fables! His wit, his wisdom, and the subtle ways he challenged and encouraged us live on today. A long, long, LONG, LONG time ago, there lived a mama frog and her son Little Green Frog. Little Green Frog was very defiant of his mother and didn't listen to her, which greatly hurt her feelings. Whatever Mama Frog would say, Little Green Frog would do exactly the opposite. Her deep sighs shook the trees and her tears would drop into the nearby stream. Little Green Frog didn't care; he laughed, and said to himself, "Nobody can tell me what to do. I will do whatever I want, my way. If you tell me to do one way, I will surely do the opposite." But one day, Little Green Frog gets a very big shock, and realises that maybe his Mama was right all along. . . but is it too late? A wonderful story, using puppetry, music and fun to help us realise that wise words are worth listening to!
Notes:
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1st Produced:
Alliance Francaise Theatre, Singapore
2009
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical/Physical theatre
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageDancing with Dragons
Synopsis:
A group of Forest Folk have returned to their forest home from wandering through Asia, bringing with them their favourite stories and tales. Fascinating Folk Tales from all over the region are celebrated through physical theatre and storytelling, puppetry and mask, evocative and atmosphEric live music. Tales of a prawn from Myanmar, a giant from Indonesia, buns from Japan, Dragons and heroes from China, a shirt from Malaysia, a trickster from India, birds from New Zealand and a statue from Tibet! Young or old, you will be drawn in to this magical world of stories. For children and adults aged 4 and up.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Agf Theatre, Alliance Francaise, Singapore
2003
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Physical theatre
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageDuck and Dive
Synopsis:
Follow the adventures and misadventures of these two cute, but confused creatures in their quest for acceptance and security, as we cleverly intertwine two classic fairy tales: Hans Christian Andersen's the Ugly Duckling and the Grimm Brothers' the Frog Prince. A beautiful, poignant, hilarious and wonderfully silly tale of two creatures stumbling through situations every teen or parent might find themselves in, with fun and laughter that the little ones can join in safely and wholeheartedly. A marvellous musical for the whole family to enjoy, in the best Broadway and West End tradition, with colourful costumes, wonderful sets, and toe-tapping tunes!
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Alliance Francaise Theatre, Singapore
2009
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageGingerbread Man, The
Synopsis:
A classic tale, carefully crafted, and cooked to perfection! Succulently served with a selection of wonderfully catchy songs, a colourful collection of crazy characters. Seasoned with some valuable lessons to learn. This tasty tale - the one you know so well - is presented, especially for the younger audience. Once upon a time there was a little old woman and a little old man. they decided to make a gingerbread man. they rolled out the dough, and cut out the shape, put raisins for his eyes, peppermints for his teeth, and icing for the hair. then he was put in the oven to cook right through. But the Little Old Man was impatient. He just could not wait. . . it smelled so good! He opened the oven door - a moment too soon - to take a peek; before the Gingerbread Man was cooked right through. . . And as he opened the door, out jumped the Gingerbread Man! Can they catch him? Can ANYONE catch him? You'll just have to wait and see!
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Alliance Francaise Theatre, Singapore
2009
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageLittle Green Frog
Synopsis:
A long, long, LONG, LONG time ago, there lived a mama frog and her son Little Green Frog. Little Green Frog was very defiant of his mother and didn't listen to her, which greatly hurt her feelings. Whatever Mama Frog would say, Little Green Frog would do exactly the opposite. Her deep sighs shook the trees and her tears would drop into the nearby stream. Little Green Frog didn't care; he laughed, and said to himself, "Nobody can tell me what to do. I will do whatever I want, my way. If you tell me to do one way, I will surely do the opposite." But one day, Little Green Frog gets a very big shock, and realises that maybe his Mama was right all along. . . but is it too late? A wonderful story, using puppetry, music and fun to help us realise that wise words are worth listening to!
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Esplanade Recital Studio, Singapore
2009
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageLittle Red Hen
Synopsis:
there once was a Little Red Hen who lived on a farm, quite happily with her farmyard friends Mouse, Cat, and Goose. One day, the Little Red Hen found some grains of wheat. "Maybe I can make some bread from these," she thought. "I wonder how? I know, I will ask my friends!" then the Little Red Hen went to her three best friends and asked, "Will you help me?" Come and join us to find out what happens to Little Red Hen as she learns all about how to grow and harvest corn; where our daily bread comes from, and how it is made. On the way, some very valuable lessons about friendship and helping one another are learned. Find out exactly how helpful her friends Mouse, Cat, and Goose are - and what they learn too! This production is specially designed for the younger audience with excitement, humour and learning points coming thick and fast!
Notes:
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1st Produced:
Alliance Francaise Theatre, Singapore
2007
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageMagic Paintbrush, The
Synopsis:
Tony is trying to study, but is distracted by his storybooks. He decides to take a short break, and starts reading the Magic Paintbrush. With an accidental wish, Tony is transported to China, where in a series of magical encounters and adventures, the story of Ma Liang and his magic paintbrush is recounted. Using marvellous puppets, magical black light sequences and a lively musical score, plus live actors, we meet Madam Hoang, the tuneful phoenix who guides and helps Liang with his quest, the Flower Rangers, the confused and very blur Chicken, and a host of other colourful and lively characters. All are taught some valuable lessons about friendship, the dangers of using or abusing power, and the value of creativity. This interactive Musical play is suitable for the whole family.
Notes:
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1st Produced:
Drama Centre, Singapore
2000
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageMoonbird
Synopsis:
Based (with permission) on the story: Moonbird written by Joyce Dunbar, illustrated by Jane Ray. Moonchild was blowing bubbles. Big, pearly moon bubbles they were, floating off into outer space. Some burst upon the spikes of stars. Some floated all the way to earth and burst wherever they landed. One bubble pops on an Earth baby - Little Prince Orla - and surrounds him in silence. He can no longer hear the sounds of the earth. His parents are devastated when they realize that their baby cannot hear or speak, but hope comes from the mysterious Moonbird who takes Orla on a mystical journey to the magical Moongarden, where marvellous creatures teach him how to speak with his hands and listen with his eyes. But will his parents understand him? What is the secret that opens their hearts and their minds? Blending Asian aesthetics of mask and movement with western theatre styles, and combining the spoken word with sign and song - this production adapted from Joyce Dunbar's beautifully written story about deafness will captivate you from the start, whether you are four or eighty-four. And maybe you too will learn to listen with your eyes. . .
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Alliance Francaise Theatre, Singapore
2008
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageNightingale, The
Synopsis:
Adapted from "the Emperor's Nightingale" by Hans Christian Andersen. Money and power cannot buy happiness; and sometimes life's greatest treasures come in a very plain wrapping. In this beautiful story, an Emperor with all wealth and power at his command is amazed when he finds true joy in the simple song of a small brown nightingale. It brings him something that none of his money or influence can provide. However, things get complicated when an imitation nightingale is brought to the Emperor. the Emperor finds out to his cost that you can't replace the truth with an imitation, however good it may seem - and it's up to the most unlikely team of a kitchen maid and a wild bird to save the Emperor and the whole Empire! This Asian themed family-centred musical features a fusion of both Western and Asian techniques, interweaving live action, puppetry and tuneful original songs.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Agf Theatre, Alliance Francaise, Singapore
2005
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageRainbow Fish
Synopsis:
A classic children's story brought to life; a magical musical journey under the sea. This is a brand new musical adaptation of the story of Rainbow Fish, the most beautiful fish in the ocean. Based (by permission) on Marcus Pfister's award winning storybook "the Rainbow Fish". Rainbow Fish is beautiful, but she's so proud of her beautiful glittery scales that she becomes very vain. Her attitude hurts the feelings of her friends, who one by one turn their back on her. She finds herself isolated and alone, and has to learn the hard way about pride and selfishness. In the process she learns the power of generosity and humility. . . but has to battle against some big and scary monsters of the deep on the way, including her own private monster. With a lively and refreshing musical soundtrack, it's a musical presentation for the whole family. there will be something for everyone - a fun and lively story, with colourful characters for the young ones, an interactive and funny script for the older ones, and a lesson for all - young or old.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Church Of Our Saviour Auditorium,
2002
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageRainbow Fish 2 - An Ocean Tale
Synopsis:
Come with us on a brand new adventure that's even more exciting and full of fun than the first! Based on two of Marcus Pfister's award winning storybooks, "Rainbow Fish to the Rescue!" and "Rainbow Fish and the Sea Monsters' Cave". Can the fishy team rescue their newfound friend? And then. . . Can Rainbow and Blue somehow face up to the Monster in the Cave? You must come and watch to find out! Rainbow and her friends discover how, when you face your fears of the unknown, they become a lot less scary, and easier to conquer. And on the way they find out about the damage that boastful gossip and lies can cause to friendship! Like Disney, there will be something for everyone - a fun and lively story, with colourful characters for the young ones, an interactive and funny script for the older ones; and very valuable lessons for all - young or old.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Agf Theatre, Alliance Francaise, Singapore
2005
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageSea Of Dreams
Synopsis:
A lighthouse stands - isolated and proud. Built to keep the seas safe. But a lighthouse that keeps its share of secrets too. When the new apprentice arrives on his first day, he finds that life in his new job is not what he expected. . .As he begins to learn his new job, some secrets of the lighthouse are revealed. What is the link between the old lighthouse keeper, and a mysterious shipwreck that happened over sixty years before? What exactly does go on just beneath the surface of the waves around this little island of rock? As the tide comes in all is revealed. Romantic, funny, sad, scary, with black light, evocative music, wonderful puppets, mask and live action. A wonderful blend of action, adventure and comedy, puppetry, music and Drama. A romance stretching over sixty years, and a most amazing underwater world. . . What makes this production unique is the beautiful puppetry and brand new fusion of art forms, and the fact that this is a play without words!
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Esplanade Theatre Studio
2003
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Physical theatre/Puppetry
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageSecret of Laughter, The
Synopsis:
You don't reach Serendip by plotting a course for it. You have to set out in good faith for somewhere else and lose your way. . . Going all the way back to the dawn of storytelling, the Secret of Laughter is a fascinating, funny, physical exploration of the way we sometimes find wonderful things when we least expect. Inspired by the VERY FIRST folk tale ever recorded, the story of the Three Princes of Serendip, and how they went on a quest for one thing, and on the way found another - even better than the first. (the original story inspired the creation of a brand new word in the English dictionary - "Serendipity" which means "A happy accident", or "an unlooked for discovery".
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Agf Theatre, Alliance Francaise, Singapore
2006
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Physical theatre
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageUgly the Duckling
Synopsis:
This well-loved folk tale is transformed with lively physical theatre, marvellous costumes and very catchy tunes that will engage and enthral children and parents alike. the show helps to encourage positive response to those of different race or creed, and to encourage racial harmony. Ugly, the duckling is taunted, bullied and rejected by her friends and family. Ugly" and her friend Sprocket the Toad journey to find the "Land of No Difference". It is "Ugly" and her friend Sprocket the Toad whose actions show everyone the value of what is in their heart, and it is finally a tragedy that brings the message poignantly home to all. However, the surprise ending will bring a smile to your face. . .
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Singapore Regional Libraries 8-15 November 2002
2002
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageUnder the Dragon Moon
Synopsis:
the ancient texts tell of a time long ago when people held great knowledge and magic was everywhere. In such an age, the moon was esteemed and revered for its powers. When the full moon rose and the dragon constellation was at its highest point in the sky, the moon's bright beams would shine with a special magical light. the legend says that stories told under the Dragon moon will never be forgotten. A marvellous and mischievous collection of Asian Folk Tales, carefully selected from many stories - from China, India, Pakistan, Singapore and Japan - both well known and seldom-heard is playfully transformed with live music, and energetic physical theatre. Each tale is told in a different style, with elements of Noh of Japan, Classical Indian Dance, Chinese opera and Bollywood blended with broad slapstick fun and energy. there is lively action and beautifully crafted stories for the younger ones, and multi-layered performance with some interesting morals and questions to challenge and engage older ones too.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Alliance Francaise Theatre, Singapore
2007
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Physical theatre
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageYou Are Special
Synopsis:
Based (with permission) on the stories: You Are Special and You Are Mine by Max Lucado. It's a valuable truth a child is never too young to hear, told in a way they will always remember. A bright, colourful, fun and thought provoking musical comedy filled with memorable tunes; guaranteed to appeal to adults, teens and children alike. there's something for everyone here, as the questions of where we fit in, and how we find our place in the world are explored in fun and fascinating ways! This heart-warming tale from Max Lucado's classic bestseller storybooks, "You Are Mine" and "You Are Special" transports you to Wemmicksville, the nicest town of all - crammed with quirky, eccentric and loveable characters. We join accident-prone Punch as he tries to solve some of the mysteries of life whilst trying to avoid one catastrophe after another. On the way, he makes a few surprising discoveries, meets some faithful friends, and makes one or two disastrous mistakes! It raises questions all of us have to answer sooner or later - Who am I? and Why am I Special?
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Drama Centre, 100 Victoria Street, National Library, Singapore
2007
Organisations:
I Theatre
1st Published:
- -
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
If Publisher (above) is underlined then the play may be purchased by direct click from the Publisher, otherwise (below) are AbeBooks for secondhand, signed & 1st eds and other Booksellers for new copies
Booksellers:
Genre:
Family Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
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