The Playwrights Database
DAVID WOOD
(1944 - )Nationality: British
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Literary Agent: Casarotto Ramsay and Associates Ltd
DAVID WOOD is an actor, playwright, composer, Theatre producer and director, author and magician. He began acting and writing at Oxford University in the sixties, including HANG DOWN YOUR HEAD AND DIE and FOUR DEGREES OVER. Since then he has become "the national children's Dramatist" (Irving Wardle, the Times). He wrote his first play for children in 1967 and has since written about fifty more. they are performed worldwide and include the OWL AND the PUSSYCAT WENT TO SEE. . . (six London seasons, co-written with Sheila Ruskin), the SELFISH SHELLFISH, the SEE-SAW TREE, SAVE the HUMAN (from the story he wrote with cartoonist Tony Husband), the IDEAL GNOME EXPEDITION, NUTCRACKER SWEET and the PLOTTERS OF CABBAGE PATCH CORNER. His stage adaptations of well-known books include Dick King-Smith's BABE, the SHEEP-PIG, Roald Dahl's the TWITS, FantASTIC MR FOX, JAMES AND the GIant PEACH, DANNY the CHAMPION OF the WORLD, the BFG and the WITCHES (both of which played long tours and three West End seasons), HRH the Prince of Wales' the OLD MAN OF LOCHNAGAR, Michael Foreman's DINOSAURS AND ALL THAT RUBBISH, Helen Nicoll and Jan Pienkowski's MEG AND MOG SHOW (five London seasons for Unicorn Theatre), Eric Hill's SPOT's BIRTHDAY PARTY and Philippa Pearce's TOM's MIDNIGHT GARDEN - the Unicorn Theatre production won the Best Show for Children and Young People awarded by the Theatre Managers Association 2001 and played a very successful season on Broadway. In 2003 the Manchester Library Theatre production won the same award. He has published, to rave reviews, Theatre FOR CHILDREN : GUIDE TO WRITING, ADAPTING, DIRECTING AND ACTING (Faber), co-written with Janet Grant; this has become a set text in many colleges in the UK and the US. He directed many of his plays for his own company, Whirligig Theatre (founded with John Gould in 1979), which toured to major Theatres nationwide including Sadler's Wells in London. Film screenplays include SWALLOWS AND AMAZONS and BACK HOME which won a gold award at the New York Film and TV Festival 1991. Writing for television includes the series CHIPS' COMIC, WATCH, and CHISH 'N' FIPS. TIDE RACE, his filmed Drama for Central Television and the European Broadcasting Union, won several international awards. For BBC Radio 4 he adapted Arthur Ransome's SWALLOWS AND AMAZONS. He also writes children's books; they include the GINGERBREAD MAN, SIDNEY the MONSTER (Nottinghamshire Children's Book of the Year) and SAVE the HUMAN. With Richard Fowler he has co-created novelty books including BEDTIME STORY, MOLE's SUMMER STORY, MOLE's WINTER STORY, SILLY SPIDER, the MAGIC SHOW, FUNNY BUNNY's MAGIC SHOW and the TOY CUPBOARD. He regularly visits schools as a storyteller, with the message 'Books are Fun'. David Wood has followed a parallel career as an actor, best remembered as Johnny in Lindsay Anderson's cult film IF. . . On the stage he played opposite Sir Michael Redgrave in A VOYAGE ROUND MY FAtheR (Best Newcomer nomination) and on television opposite Shelley Winters in the VAMP. Other television credits include LONGITUDE, MAD JACK, FAtheRS AND SONS, CHERIE, the LOVE SCHOOL, DISRAELI, VAN DER VALK, the NEW AVENGERS, the TROUBLESHOOTERS, PLAYAWAY, JACKANORY, and ALL-STAR RECORD BREAKERS. His children's entertainment the DAVID WOOD MAGIC AND MUSIC SHOW plays in Theatres in London and all over the UK. On television he performed magic in the BBC series TRICKY BUSINESS. He was made a member of the Inner Magic Circle (with Gold Star) for his services to children's magic. He is married to Jacqueline Stanbury; they have two grown-up daughters, Katherine and RebeccA. In the Queen's Birthday Honours, 2004, David was awarded the O.B.E for his services to literature and Drama, and in 2006 he wrote the QUEEN's HANDBAG, a play to celebrate British children's literature, performed at the Children's Party at the Palace to mark the Queen's 80th birthday, and seen live on BBC Television by 8,000,000 viewers.
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below is a list of David Wood's plays - click on a Play Title for more information
Abbacadabra Aladdin Babe the Sheep Pig Babes In the Magic Wood BFG, The (Big Friendly Giant) Christmas Story, The Cinderella Clockwork Danny the Champion Of the World Dick Whittington And Wondercat Dinosaurs And All That Rubbish Fantastic Mr Fox Flibberty And the Penguin Forest Child, The George's Marvellous Medicine Gingerbread Man, The Go Between, The Goodnight Mister Tom Guess How Much I Love You Hijack Over Hygenia Ideal Gnome Expedition, The Jack And the Giant Jack the Lad James And the Giant Peach Lady Lollipop Larry the Lamb In Toytown Life In Bedrooms, A Lighthouse Keeper's Lunch Magic Finger, The Marian and the Witches Charm Meg And Mog Show More Adventures Of Noddy Mother Goose's Golden Christmas Noddy Nutcracker Sweet Old Father Time Old Man Of Lochagar, The Old Mother Hubbard Owl And the Pussycat Went To See, The Papertown Paperchase, The Pied Piper, The Plotters Of Cabbage Patch Corner, The Robin Hood Rock Nativity Rupert And the Green Dragon Save the Human See-Saw Tree, The Selfish Shellfish, The Spot's Birthday Party there Was An Old Woman Tickle Tiger Who Came To Tea, The Tom's Midnight Garden Twits, The What's the Big Secret? While Dad's Away Witches, TheAbbacadabra
This musical was adapted from a French album, on which a modern fairy tale used the songs of Abba with new lyrics. Three children find themselves trapped in a video game with fairy tale characters, Cinderella, Aladdin, Pinocchio, and the Beast, who are trapped by the wicked witch Carabosse.
Notes:
written by D Wood And Don Black. Abba Songs
1st Produced:
Organisations:
Lyric Theatre and Cameron Mackintosh
1st Published:
-
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
Top of PageAladdin
Synopsis:
the story of ALADDIN is faithfully told, with comedy scenes carefully and logically interpolated into the action. Zadia, a spirited princess and Aladdin himself are written as childhood friends; the romantic side of their relationship is played down.the storyline involves a monkey and a baby dragon, both of which appeal to the younger members of the audience.Novel touches includes the method by which Abanazar obtains the l it takes him ten years to do this, by which time Aladdin and his wife have had a son, who plays a small but crucial part of the action. As a neat twist, the Genie of the Lamp proves to be the long lost uncle of the Genie of the Ring.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Queen's Theatre, Hornchurch
1980
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1981
Music:
-
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Genre:
family musical Musical
Parts:
Male: 11 Female: 3 Other: extras
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageBabe the Sheep Pig
Synopsis:
This is a tale of high adventure in the farmyard; of humble beginnings and courageous triumphs. This is the story of one piglet's rise to become the world famous "sheep-pig". When Babe is won by Farmer Hogget at the village fair an extraordinary friendship develops, one that will change the whole farm. With the help of his new "mother", the old dog Fly, Babe fast learns the herding instinct, and it's not long before this most polite of pigs wins over the most suspicious of sheep. When the day of the Grand Challenge Sheep-Dog Trials dawns, the whole farm holds its breath to see whether Babe will triumph, against all odds, to become the hero of the hour.
Notes:
from novel by Dick King-Smith.
1st Produced:
New Victoria Theatre, Woking
1997
Organisations:
Whirligig Theatre
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1997
Music:
-
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Genre:
family play Adaptation
Parts:
Male: 5 Female: 5 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageBabes In the Magic Wood
Synopsis:
BABES IN the MAGIC WOOD has an original storyline, and does not resemble the usual pantomime versions. Widow Crockett and her babes, Simple Simon and Contrary Mary, run a toyshop, their biggest job being the making of toys for Father Christmas's order. One Christmas Eve they are very behind with their work and wish their Fairy Godmother could help. She appears and, under her spell, three magic toys, Jack-in-the-Box, Ragdoll and Clockwork Panda, finish the job while the Crockett family are asleep. Later the rascally robbers Pick and Nick see a chance, impersonating Father Christmas, to grab the toys for themselves. they are foiled, but much more perilous dangers follow. the Fairy Godmother turns out to be a wicked Superwitch, who almost makes a cauldron meal of the children in the Magic Wood. After many adventures the children, aided by the magic toys, and a clever donkey, triumph. they find themselves back in the toyshop - and it was all a dream. But was it? the magic toys have the last word.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Queen's Theatre, Hornchurch
1978
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1979
Music:
-
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Genre:
family musical Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: 12 characters
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageBFG, The (Big Friendly Giant)
Roald Dahl's classic book about the 24-feet-high Big Friendly Giant and a little orphan called Sophie brings to the stage some of Dahl's most memorable characters. the BFG and Sophie team up to save the children of England from the child-eating giants, Bloodbottler, Fleshlumpeater, Bonecruncher, Meatdripper, Childchewer, and Gizzardgulper. they are assisted by the Queen of England and the Heads of the Army and Airforce with their helicopters. Locations include the BFG's cave in Giant Country, Dream Country and Buckingham Palace. the play uses a framing device: Sophie is celebrating her birthday with her friends, and they act out Sophie's favourite story - the BFG. For Seattle Children's theatre, this framing device was removed and the story told "for real". Both versions are available. the play offers opportunities for puppetry, and imaginatively solves the problems of scale. Dahl's humour, delightful use of nonsense language, and unique combination of fairytale and contemporary storytelling are faithfully adapted to the stage
Notes:
book by Roald Dahl
1st Produced:
Wimbledon, London
1991
Organisations:
Clarion Productions
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1991
Music:
-
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Genre:
family play Adaptation
Parts:
Male: 4 Female: 4 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageChristmas Story, The
Synopsis:
A retelling of the Christmas story with great sympathy and warmth. Delightfully real characters and moments of gentle humour recreate the wonder of that night in Bethlehem, long ago, when Jesus was born. Lots of favourite carols are included. This is a play, ideal for primary schools. there are notes on performance.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
-
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
A & C Black, London, 1996
Music:
-
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Genre:
Nativity Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageCinderella
Synopsis:
David Wood's CINDERElla follows the story closely, though the characters differ from many versions. CinderElla is much more sparky than the usual down-trodden waif; the prince is glum and gawky until he meets Cinderella, who, not knowing who he is, tries to teach him the latest dance craze. the Fairy Godmother is a practical, down-to-earth woman with magic powers, and Cinderella's best friends are two mice, who are eventually turned into the horses pulling Cinderella's coach to the Ball.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Queen's Theatre, Hornchurch
1979
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1981
Music:
-
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Genre:
family musical Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageClockwork
Synopsis:
Young Fritz begins the electrifying story of the sinister Dr. Kalmenius of Shatzburg, whose mechanical figures seem to take on a life of their own. But Fritz and his spell-bound audience are horrified when half-way through the story, the fictional Dr. Kalmenius appears at the door.ng
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Linbury Studios, Royal Opera House
2004
Organisations:
Unicorn Theatre
1st Published:
Peters Edition,
Music:
-
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Genre:
Opera
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageDanny the Champion Of the World
Danny lives happily and peacefully in a gypsy caravan with his devoted Father and works his spare time in their small village petrol station. However, when Danny turns nine his world is turned upside down when he learns of his father's secret passion for pheasant poaching in the estate of the nasty, greedy Victor Hazell, the local wealthy landowner. In the early hours, Danny awakes to find that his Father has failed to return after a night of poaching. Fearing that his Father may be in grave danger, Danny leaves the caravan and sets off on a courageous journey to rescue him. Soon, with a little help from the village, Danny finds himself the mastermind behind the most incredible and exciting plot ever attempted against Victor Hazell.
Notes:
adapted from story by Roald Dahl
1st Produced:
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 2006
Music:
-
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Genre:
family play Adaptation
Parts:
Male: 6 Female: 2 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageDick Whittington And Wondercat
Synopsis:
In David Wood's version of the story, a 'play-within-a-play' technique is used. the townsfolk of London gather to greet Sir Richard Whittington on his installation as Lord Mayor. A voice of dissent in the crowd belongs to a young boy who resents the acclaim given to 'a wealthy nob like him', who is unlikely to help ordinary folk. the crowd explain to the boy that this Lord Mayor is different and has helped many ordinary people; they then tell the story of Dick Whittington, and the boy plays the young Dick.He wins the friendship of young Alice, and becomes involved with the Fitzwarren family and store, a brace of swash-buckling pirates, the lovable Wondercat, and a traditional 'dame' character - Bertha the Cook. Dick's story takes him from the depths of despair and disgrace to his triumph, with Wondercat, defeating the rats infesting the home of the Queen of the Barbary Coast, who turns out to have been educated in England!
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Queen's Theatre, Hornchurch
1981
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1983
Music:
-
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Genre:
family musical Musical
Parts:
Male: 9 Female: 6 Other: extras
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageDinosaurs And All That Rubbish
Synopsis:
Based on the best-selling book by Michael Foreman, DINOSAURS AND ALL THAT RUBBISH is an ever-topical musical play for young people, with an environmental theme. Man destroys his own world through misuse and disrespect, only to search for a replacement in the stars. In his absence, the Dinosaurs return to Earth to discover desolation and destruction. In this humorous and intelligent story, the dancing Dinosaurs restore the Earth to its former beauty, with the help of the Animal Kingdom. Ironically, when Man returns, he tries to lay claim to the new, blooming planet he has discovered; but he is reminded that this is the same decaying Earth he had ruined and abandoned. the final song conveys the message that the Earth belongs to everyone and should be respected. the play's running time is approximately 40 minutes.
Notes:
written with Peter Pontzen, book by Michael Foreman
1st Produced:
Howell's School, Denbigh
Organisations:
Whirligig Theatre (professional production)
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1986
Music:
-
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Genre:
Childrens Musical Play Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageFantastic Mr Fox
Synopsis:
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. FANTASTIC MR FOX devises a plan which will ensure full stomachs for not only his family, but all his friends, who celebrate with a sumptuous feast. David Wood writes : the Belgrade theatre, Coventry, well-known for working with the local community, asked me to write the play for a professional company, joined by a large community company of all ages. This proved to be not only a tremendous spectacle, with more than sixty people on stage, but also a true celebration of community life, echoing Dahl's sentiments in the story.
Notes:
from Roald Dahl
1st Produced:
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Music:
-
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Genre:
family play Adaptation
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageFlibberty And the Penguin
Synopsis:
Young Penguin has come from Iceland to find his Mother and Father. This must be done before the spring weather becomes too warm. He falls in with Flibberty, a genial goblin, who helps him in his search. they incur the wrath of Krafty Kingfisher, who accuses the Penguin of stealing a fish from him. On their journey the two meet, among others, two Silly Cuckoos busy practising their spring song, a helpful Bus Driver/Conductor, and the famous Mr. Maestro who has come to town to conduct a concert (he can only understand singing, not talking). Eventually the parent penguins are discovered in the zoo. Flibberty and Young Penguin manage to set them free, and to put Krafty Kingfisher in their place. Everything ends well, even for Kingfisher, as all the characters gather in the Concert Hall to join (with the audience) in a song to spring. David Wood writes: I have always thought this play was somewhat underrated! Influenced by Feydeau, I tried to introduce several different themes and make them all converge in a series of funny confrontations. I still like this play, even though I haven't seen a production for many years! Characters like the Three-Headed Knowall, the Silly Cuckoos, Mr. Maestro and his assistant, Master Ministrone are among my favourite creations
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Organisations:
Worcester Repertory Company
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1974
Music:
-
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Genre:
Childrens Musical Play Musical
Parts:
Male: 10 Female: 2 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageForest Child, The
Synopsis:
the Forest Child of the title has been brought up by wild animals in the forest, who have taught her to survive. A hunter and his son arrive in the forest. the son has no stomach for hunting and the hunter bullies him. Left on his own, he meets the Forest Child. they communicate through song. But the hunter catches the Forest Child, takes her back to civilisation, where she is treated badly in school. She is locked in a cupboard by the Schoolmaster. the hunter's son is determined to help her. He runs back to the forest and manages to communicate with the wild animals, all of whom are missing the Forest Child. He leads them from the forest to the schoolroom. they pretend to be children in the school, terrifying the Schoolmaster, who is forced to give up the key to the cupboard, allowing the Forest Child to escape. the hunter's son goes with her, and learns how to live in the forest, where he will be happy. "Deep in the forest, the animals and children sleep in a jumbled heap beneath a million stars."
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Toured To Schools
Organisations:
Welsh National Opera Ltd.
1st Published:
-
Music:
-
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Genre:
childrens' opera Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageGeorge's Marvellous Medicine
It's the half term holiday and George Kranky is looking forward to a break from school when a letter from Grandma arrives announcing that she is coming to stay - that very day! Soon she is making George's life miserable with spiteful comments and demands for doses of medicine, so George decides to mix a new type of medicine for her. Shaving foam, shampoo, lipstick and chilli powder all go into the mixture, which makes Grandma grow and grow into a giant until she crashes through the farmhouse roof. Soon Dad comes up with a plan to use the medicine to make giant farm animals - and a fortune for the Kranky family. First George needs to remember the ingredients for his marvellous medicine, with a little help from the audience.
Notes:
from the book by Roald Dahl
1st Produced:
Capitol Theatre, Horsham
28 Oct 2009
Organisations:
Birmingham Stage company
1st Published:
Music:
-
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Genre:
Adaptation
Parts:
Male: 2 or 3 Female: 2 or 3 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageGingerbread Man, The
Synopsis:
the play takes place on an antique kitchen dresser. the Gingerbread Man, newly baked by the Big Ones, meets Salt, Pepper and Herr Von Cuckoo, who lives in the cuckoo-clock. He has a sore throat which is ruining his "cuckoos", thus threatening to land him in the dreaded dustbin. the Gingerbread Man's efforts to help Cuckoo's sore throat are hampered by the villainous scavenger Sleek the Mouse and by the Old Bag - an old tea-bag who lives in the tea pot on the top shelf. there is lots of constructive audience participation, humour, action and songs.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Towngate Theatre, Basildon
1976
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1977
Music:
-
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Genre:
musical play for children Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: 4 Female: 2 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageGo Between, The
Synopsis:
the past is a foreign country: they do things differently there. In the heat and humidity of the rural Norfolk summer in 1900, a young boy comes of age as he is unwittingly enlisted as a messenger in an adult affair of deceit and desire. This is the world premiere of a moving new musical adaptation of LP Hartleys beautifully wistful novel of naivety, nostalgia and the end of innocence, perhaps best known as a film of the same name starring Julie Christie and Alan Bates.
Notes:
Music And lyrics by Richard Taylor; book by Richard Taylor; David Wood. Based on the novel by L P Hartley
1st Produced:
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
-
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageGoodnight Mister Tom
One of the most uplifting stories ever written, Michelle Magorian's stunning Goodnight Mister Tom is brought gloriously to life in this stage adaptation by David Wood the UK's National Children's Dramatist' (The Times). Set during the dark and dangerous build-up to the Second World War, Goodnight Mister Tom follows sad young William Beech, who is evacuated to the idyllic English countryside and builds a remarkable and moving friendship with the elderly recluse Tom Oakley. All seems perfect until William is devastatingly summoned by his mother back to London. Goodnight Mister Tom is a tale of two broken souls at very different ends of the age scale that celebrates the value of love and proves that friendship knows no barriers.
Notes:
stage Adaptation of Michelle Magorian's Goodnight Mister Tom
1st Produced:
Organisations:
Children's Touring Partnership
1st Published:
Music:
-
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Genre:
140 min Adaptation
Parts:
Male: 4 Female: 4 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageGuess How Much I Love You
Synopsis:
Guess How Much I Love You brings to the stage the characters Little Nutbrown Hare and big nutbrown Hare, who take audiences on a magical journey through the seasons. Suitable for ages 3+
Notes:
adapted from book by Sam McBratney
1st Produced:
Greenwich Theatre, London, UK >>>
03 Jun 2010
Organisations:
Jason Haigh-Ellery in association with the Rose Theatre, Kingston
1st Published:
-
Music:
-
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Genre:
55 min Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: 1 Female: 2 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageHijack Over Hygenia
Synopsis:
HIJACK OVER HYGENIA is set in an aeroplane interior, on a roof, in a throne room and in a bedroom. Hygenia is the cleanest kingdom in the world. Disease is unknown. But one day a villainous Measle enters illegally and starts bringing the inhabitants out in spots. It is all the plot of Dr. Spicknspan who, owing to the pervading healthiness, is always out of work. Things look serious, but the plot is foiled by the gallantry of the royal staff: peace, health and cleanliness are restored
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1974
Music:
-
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Genre:
musical play for children Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: 8 Female: 4 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageIdeal Gnome Expedition, The
Synopsis:
After rescuing a toy duck from the dustbin in their backyard, Mr. Fisher and Mr. Wheeler, two temporarily nomadic garden gnomes, decide to venture over the garden wall into the big wide world. their object is to find a holiday island, just like the 'Big Ones', but being unused to the hazards of the concrete jungle of the town, they almost don't make it. Until they meet Chips, that is. Chips is a very cool cat, and with his help the gnomes and Baby Duck survive several urban adventures before reaching their island in the sun. Although it is not quite as expected (a traffic island!), they all agree that it is the best holiday they have ever had. In the end, however, they return to their backyard, taking the homeless chips with them, and, happy and content, they agree that there's no place like home!
Notes:
aka Chish 'n' Fips
1st Produced:
Organisations:
Toured by Whirligig
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1982
Music:
-
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Genre:
musical play for children Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: 6 characters
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageJack And the Giant
Synopsis:
the traditional tale has been adapted into a family musical, with pantomime elements. the action starts in Mrs. Macdonald's farmyard. Jack, her son, is preoccupied with his dream of building a rocket. At first this leads him astray, but eventually proves he's really a winner. His sister is the only practical member of the family, a hard-working tomboy. the family is threatened with eviction by Mr. Meany, an unfair landlord. Jack is sent to sell Marigold, the cow. Meanwhile, the arrival of a spaceship containing Buzz and Beep, two spacemen on a mission to find a cow, leads to unusual complications. their master, the Silver Giant, is looking after his Baby Giant, and needs milk to stop the baby crying. Jack eventually climbs the beanstalk, in this version made of baked bean tin cans, and saves the day. Many animals take part in the play, many of which can be played by children.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Queens Theatre, Hornchurch
1982
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1987
Music:
-
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Genre:
family musical Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageJack the Lad
Synopsis:
Following the success of their collaboration on ROBIN HOOD, David Wood and Dave and Toni Arthur wrote JACK the LAD, a musical celebration of Jack, the ubiquitous hero or everyman of English legend, myth and folklore - from Little Jack Horner, through Jack and the Beanstalk to Spring Heeled Jack, the Terror of London. the setting is a gypsy encampment, where a series of Jack tales and songs are performed by the gypsies to celebrate the 80th birthday of their senior member - affectionately known as Jack the Lad. the play, therefore, depicts contemporary gypsy life, as well as traditional gypsy customs and superstitions, and is a delightful amalgam of the traditional Arts of story-telling, singing and dancing, with a mumming play, a shadow-mime and puppetry also employed within the main framework. David Wood writes: I would love this play to have more productions! the original production was a joyful celebration of folk tradition and story-telling, and offered opportunities for a versatile cast. I'm sure that professional and amateur companies would find it rewarding to perform. the music is exhilarating and the contemporary gypsy framework is relevant and thought provoking
Notes:
written by David Wood, Dave And Toni Arthur
1st Produced:
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1991
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical Celebration Musical
Parts:
Male: 6 Female: 4 Other: 3c 1dog
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageJames And the Giant Peach
Synopsis:
Orphan James is sent to live with his aunts, Spiker and Sponge, after his parents are killed in a tragic accident involving a rhino, but the aunts treat him horribly. One day he meets an old man who gives him a bag containing the strongest magic in the world. When James accidentally spills it near the old peach tree the most marvellous things happen and this is just the start of his adventures. With his new friends - Centipede, Earthworm, Grasshopper, Ladybird and Spider - James sets off on an incredible journey in the Giant Peach across the ocean to New York. David Wood's adaptation proves a worthy companion to his other Dahl Dramatizations - the BFG, the Twits, the Witches and Fantastic Mr Fox.
Notes:
adaptation of Roald DahI book
1st Produced:
Old Rep, Birmingham, Uk
2001
Organisations:
Birmingham Stage Co
1st Published:
Music:
-
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Genre:
family play Adaptation
Parts:
Male: 5 Female: 3 Other: children
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageLady Lollipop
Synopsis:
Spoilt Princess Penelope is taught to be kind by young Johnny and his pig, Lollipop
Notes:
from book by Dick King-Smith
1st Produced:
-
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Walker Books/Samuel French, 2005
Music:
-
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Genre:
Play for Children to perform Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageLarry the Lamb In Toytown
Synopsis:
All the famous Toytown characters appear in this story as the townspeople are threatened by a fearsome dragon and a villainous highwayman. Ernest the Policeman sets out to do his duty, the Mayor has some adventures with a motor car and is most unhappily transformed when one of the Magician's spells goes wrong, the nasty-tempered Mr. Growser gets more than he bargained for when his bath water pipes freeze - but with the help of Larry the Lamb and Dennis the Dachshund, all is set to right in time for the Mayor's special Christmas tea party.
Notes:
written by David Wood And Sheila Ruskin
1st Produced:
Organisations:
Worcester Repertory Company
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1977
Music:
-
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Genre:
Childrens Musical Play Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: 9 Female: 1 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageLife In Bedrooms, A
Synopsis:
-
Notes:
written by David Wright and David Wood
1st Produced:
Traverse Theatre club, Edinburgh
11 Apr 1967
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
-
Music:
-
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Genre:
documentary musical
Parts:
Male: 9 Female: 7 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageLighthouse Keeper's Lunch
Synopsis:
This is an adaptation of the first of a delightful series of books by Ronda and David Armitage. Mr. & Mrs. Grinling, the Lighthouse Keeper and his wife, live in a cottage on a cliff. Every day Mr. Grinling rows out to the lighthouse, where he works all day. His wife prepares him delicious lunches, which she sends to him via a pulley system between the cottage and the lighthouse. Problems begin when hungry seagulls steal Mr. Grinling's lunch as it travels over the sea. It is decided that Hamish, the Grinlings' cat, will accompany the lunch, but he becomes sea sick and the seagulls, unthreatened by him, still have a feast. But they are finally defeated when Mrs. Grinling puts mustard into her husband's sandwiches.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Josef Weinberger Ltd, 2006
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical Play for 2 adults and lots of children Adaptation
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
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Top of PageMagic Finger, The
Lucy is an influential 8-year old with a passion for righting wrongs and a "magic" index finger that doles out justice. When Lucy sees something she thinks is unfair, she points her magic finger at the problem, and it causes all sorts of mischief! One day, when visiting her friend William Gregg on his family's farm, Lucy observes the Gregg family shoot a group of ducks. Horrified, Lucy she points her magic finger at the family and oh, boy that little finger makes things topsy turvey! Overnight the tables are turned. the Gregg family is transformed into miniature people with duck wings while the members of the hunted duck family become human sized and sprout arms. the ducks are adjusting to TV, telephones, and even the bathtub while the Greggs must nest in a tree and learn to survive in the air. Can Lucy make things right? Best for ages 5-10
Notes:
adapted from book by Roald Dahl
1st Produced:
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Music:
-
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Genre:
TYA adaptation
Parts:
Male: 3 Female: 2 Other: 1b 1g
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageMarian and the Witches Charm
Synopsis:
-
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
-
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Contained in: "Playstage" published by Methuen 1987
Music:
-
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Genre:
Childrens one act
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageMeg And Mog Show
Synopsis:
the play brings to life for children the familiar figures from the books they know and love so well. Ingeniously combining stories from five of the books, we see Meg, Mog and Owl set off on an adventure to find the ingredients for a spell to get rid of an invading Stegosaurus - an adventure that takes them to a medieval castle, zoo and the moon. there are lively songs and plenty of audience participation.
Notes:
books by Helen Nicoll And Jan Pienkowski
1st Produced:
Organisations:
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1984
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical Play for Children Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: 15 characters
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageMore Adventures Of Noddy
Synopsis:
MORE ADVENTURES OF NODDY consists of two one-act plays. they could be performed separately, as they are both self-contained. NODDY AND the NOAH's ARK involves most of the familiar book characters, including Big Ears, Whiskers the Cat (a puppet), Bumpy Dog, Tessie Bear, Mr. Plod, Sam and Sally Skittle and the goblins, Sly and Goblin. Mr. Noah needs financial support to keep his animals fed. Tessie Bear and Noddy collect sixpences for the cause. But the collecting box is stolen by the goblins. An exciting quest to discover the culprits leads our heroes to the Dark Wood. All ends happily with a Grand Concert.
Notes:
by Enid Blyton
1st Produced:
Wimbledon Theatre
1995
Organisations:
Clarion Productions
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1998
Music:
-
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Genre:
play for children Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageMother Goose's Golden Christmas
Synopsis:
This musical play bears little resemblance to the traditional tale of Mother Goose. It takes its inspiration from the books of nursery rhymes under the umbrElla title "Mother Goose", published over the last two centuries. the setting is in fact a giant book, in which Mother Goose lives with her famous five 'Little' nursery rhyme characters. the play opens with them preparing a surprise Christmas tree for her. It seems they are tired of always being called 'Little' and doing the same things (losing sheep, putting the kettle on etc.), so Mother Goose incorporates them all in a new story involving such characters as the Big Bad Wolf, the Bigger Badder Wolf, a Giant, and Miss Muffet's Spider. the main action centres on the capture and rescue of the Goose with the Golden Eggs. Helped to a certain extent by the permanently sleepy Fairy Lethargia, each of the 'Little' characters has his or her 'big moment' during the quest, and when it is all over they return home to the Book for a grand Christmas party.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Queens Theatre, Hornchurch
1977
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1978
Music:
-
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Genre:
Family Musical Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: 6 Female: 6 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageNoddy
Synopsis:
Enid Blyton's name is synonymous with children's stories, none being more famous than NODDY. David Wood, the acclaimed children's Dramatist, draws upon the most entertaining and instructive of the twenty-four books for this popular adaptation. Exploiting the excitement of life theatre with imaginative staging, music, light, puppetry and lots of audience participation, the play will be a hit with all, whether they know Noddy or not. the plot may be familiar enough - Noddy and his friends pitted against the sneering goblins and a greedy witch - but the treatment is fresh, funny and inventive. As in the original works, Noddy learns the value of friendship, hard work and honesty, through a series of adventures : building his house in Toytown, driving a car, outwitting his enemies, even surviving a hair-raising experience at Noah's Ark!
Notes:
by Enid Blyton
1st Produced:
Wimbledon Theatre
1993
Organisations:
Clarion Productions
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1995
Music:
-
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Genre:
Play for Children with Music Adaptation
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageNutcracker Sweet
Synopsis:
Set in the Nutty May Fair, the play follows the struggle of the nuts - including Kernel Walnut, Monkey Nut, William the Conquer, Gypsy Brazil and Old Ma Coconut - against the villainous confectioner Professor Jelly Bon Bon, who is searching for nuts with which to create a new chocolate assortment. the "Chocolate Squirter's" aims are eventually foiled, thanks to the nuttiness of the Nuts and the audience's help.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Redgrave Theatre, Farnham (Followed By Whirligig Tour)
1977
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1981
Music:
-
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Genre:
Childrens Musical Musical
Parts:
Male: 4 Female: 3 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageOld Father Time
Synopsis:
More a musical play for children than a pantomime, yet with lots of audience participation, Old Father Time is set in and around London and in various different centuries. the inconceivable happens when Big Ben stops! Old Father Time, who lives in Big Ben and controls time, realises that he is locked in combat with the villainous Flying Sauceress, who manages to steal his almanac, containing the mystic secrets of his trade. the colourful storyline takes Old Father Times, his charlady, Mrs. Sparkle, and his Watchdog on a quest through time, involving cavemen, Guy Fawkes, a baby Dinosaur and Dodger and Bodger, a pair of buskers.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Queens Theatre, Hornchurch
1976
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1978
Music:
-
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Genre:
family musical Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: 30 characters
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageOld Man Of Lochagar, The
Synopsis:
Set in the Highlands of Scotland, the music, colour, humour and Drama in the OLD MAN OF LOCHNAGAR provides a treat for the whole family. the story follows the quest of the Old Man, who lives in a cave by the Loch under the mountain, Lochnagar, to save the Gorms from the menacing Giant Gormless. His quest leads him under the sea, through the air and into Gorm Grotto and features a wealth of eccentric characters, including the Pig Eagle, a grumpy Grouse and a thrace of Loch-Haggis!
Notes:
book by Prince of Wales
1st Produced:
His Majesty's Theatre, Aberdeen
1986
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Amber Lane Press, Oxford/Samuel French, London, 1986
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical Play for Children Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageOld Mother Hubbard
Synopsis:
Using the old nursery rhyme as a starting point, David Wood has created an original storyline, incorporating pantomime elements and other nursery-rhyme characters, plus some unusual animals, including Humperdink - a camel! It is Christmas Eve, and a lonely dog arrives at Mother Hubbard's Home for Lost Children; but alas, her cupboard is bare. Worse still, she is turned out by the bailiff and the rent collector, together with her brood of nursery-rhyme children. they make their way to a forest, where they encounter a magician, the Great Boon, on his way to a circus. By a fortunate mistake, the magician casts a spell which enlarges the bailiff's boot to a size which makes it big enough for Mother Hubbard to take temporary residence in it. But her troubles are far from over, and they all undergo many adventures - not least with a sinister Cat, before all turns out well, and they are able to take part in a Grand Circus
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Queens Theatre, Hornchurch
1975
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1976
Music:
-
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Genre:
Family Musical Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageOwl And the Pussycat Went To See, The
Synopsis:
This enchanting musical play, based on the verses and stories of Edward Lear, tells of the quest of the Owl and the Pussycat to find a ring and someone to marry them. During their adventures, which takes them across the Syllabub Sea to Bong Tree Island and the Turkey who lives on the hill, they meet a host of delightful characters including the Quangle Wangle, the Dong with a luminous nose, Professor Bosh, the Runcible Spoon, the Jumblies - and the villainous, ever hungry Plum Pudding Flea.
Notes:
written by Sheila Ruskin And David Wood
1st Produced:
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1970
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical Play for Children Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: 9 Female: 5 Other: extras
Further Reference:
-
Top of PagePapertown Paperchase, The
Synopsis:
the Salamander, a sort of dragon, is in trouble with the Fire Flies, because he is unable to create a fire by breathing on a pile of sticks. To redeem himself he is sent on a mission to burn down Papertown. the paper inhabitants, including the Papertown Crier (a newspaper), the Postman (an envelope), Professor Paperback (a book who runs the bookshop), Mr. Quid (a pound note who is the Bank Manager) and Lady Carrier Bag - gather their resources to meet the threat. Spike the Pen (the litter collector), Fireman Silver, and even the cheeky Litterbug become involved, and the two petty criminals, Blotch and Carbon, are released to join the forces. In the end, Salamander, who has fallen for timid little Tishoo, joins the paper people in thwarting the Fire Flies, and Papertown is saved from destruction.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Organisations:
Worcester Repertory Company
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1976
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical Play for Children Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: 12 characters
Further Reference:
-
Top of PagePied Piper, The
Synopsis:
the PIED PIPER is based on the traditional tale made famous by Robert Browning, and uses much of Browning's poem. This adaptation has the Piper making his first appearance as a modern busker, delighting the children with his music. their parents, though, are not so delighted and soon put a stop to the energetic dancing, telling the children and the busker that music has been banned on this street for hundreds of years. the children ask why. In reply, the townsfolk act out the story of the Pied Piper, playing their medieval counterparts and involving the children and the busker as the Piper. But when the tale is told, the Piper once again enchants the children with his music, and the horrified townsfolk suddenly realise that he has come back to claim his fee, refused to him all those years ago. All ends happily, however, for it seems that, consumed by guilt, the medieval townsfolk put aside the thousand gilders, just in case the Piper should ever return. the Piper accepts his fee, and frees Hamelin from his curse at long last.
Notes:
written by David Wood, Dave And Toni Arthur
1st Produced:
Octagon Theatre, Yeovil
1988
Organisations:
Orchard Theatre Company
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1991
Music:
-
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Genre:
Childrens Musical Play Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: 5 Female: 3 Other: 20c
Further Reference:
-
Top of PagePlotters Of Cabbage Patch Corner, The
Synopsis:
the PLOTTERS OF CABBAGE PATCH CORNER is a musical play for child audiences. the insects live in a busy world in the garden. their existence, however, is always overshadowed by the humans - the Big Ones. Infuriated by constant "spraying" the unattractive Slug, Greenfly and Maggot call for rebellion, strikes, ruination of the garden. the others, the 'pretty' insects - Red Admiral, Ladybird and Bumble Bee - oppose this and war is declared. Glow Worm and Ant reluctantly become involved. Fortune swings one way and the other in a series of bitter campaigns. the garden goes to ruin and the Big Ones decide to build a garage on it. This brings the insects to their senses. they combine to restore the garden to its original beauty and thus preserve their home.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Organisations:
Worcester Repertory Company
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1972
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical Play Musical
Parts:
Male: 6 Female: 4 Other: 2 voices
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageRobin Hood
Synopsis:
Not so long ago it was traditional in England for May Day to be celebrated on the village green with organised May Games. It is a re-creation of these May Games which provides the framework for this musical version of the Robin Hood legend. We join a group of villagers celebrating May Day with a variety of pastimes - singing, dancing, acrobatics and competitive sports. Against this background are set a number of playlets in which the villagers taken on Robin Hood roles to tell the various well-known tales of Robin Hood, including 'Robin Hood and Friar Tuck', 'Robin Hood and Little John' and 'Robin Hood and Allen-a-Dale'. the possibilities for presenting the play are numerous - open stage, promenade, open air as well as on a proscenium stage.
Notes:
written by David Wood, Dave And Toni Arthur
1st Produced:
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1985
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical celebration Musical
Parts:
Male: 11 Female: 4 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageRock Nativity
Synopsis:
A combination of contemporary music, carols, recitatives, dialogue and direct speech to the audience, this family musical is a modern equivalent of the medieval mystery play - simple yet not naive, humorous yet not disrespectful, devotional yet not overtly pious. the action of the first half takes us from the Annunciation to the Nativity. the second half includes the Blessing in the temple, the killing of the Firstborn and the Flight into Egypt. the set can be simple and basic: levels can be used to advantage, particularly in the staging of Herod's scenes and Gabriel's 'appearances'.
Notes:
written with Tony Hatch And Jackie Trent
1st Produced:
University Theatre, Newcastle- Upon-Tyne
1974
Organisations:
Tyneside Theatre Company
1st Published:
Josef Weinberger Ltd, 1976
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageRupert And the Green Dragon
Synopsis:
Rupert and his famous friends, including Edward Trunk, Bill Badger, Podgy Pig, Algy Pug, Pong Ping and Tiger Lily feature in this new story. Edward Trunk wishes for a sunny day for his birthday, but Nutwood is currently experiencing only winter weather. On the advice of Wise Owl, Rupert goes to see the Clerk of the Weather. the friendly Green Dragon is a great help, but Zita, the Ice Maid, has to be foiled first! Tuneful songs and lots of audience participation.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Thorndike Theatre, Leatherhead
1993
Organisations:
Dudley Russell Ltd
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1997
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical Play for Children Musical
Parts:
Male: 5 Female: 5 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageSave the Human
Synopsis:
A Fable from the Future. . .It seems that long, long ago human beings ruled the world but made a terrible mess of it. they kept having wars and polluting the earth. they nearly succeeded in killing themselves off completely. . .Now the animals are in charge. Young Becky Bear loves her pet human, Norman. When the mysterious Professor Rhino has Norman arrested by the Securiboars, Becky and her friends start a worldwide campaign to 'sAVE the HUMAN' from extinction.
Notes:
story by Tony Husband And David Wood
1st Produced:
Arts Theatre, Cambridge
1990
Organisations:
Cambridge Theatre Company
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1990
Music:
-
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Genre:
Children's Play with Songs Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: Large Cast
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageSee-Saw Tree, The
Synopsis:
the SEE-SAW TREE looks at an important environmental issue in an entertaining but thought-provoking way. the See-Saw Tree, an ancient oak, stands on ground which is ear-marked for development into a children's playground by Mr. Jay, owner of the nearby supermarket. A public meeting is called in the village hall to discuss his proposals, which include cutting down the three-hundred-year-old oak tree. the audience vote in favour, but Mr. Bunn, an environmental activist protests and shows us the devastating effect such plans will have on the inhabitants of the tree - the main part of the play tells the story of these creatures (who can be played by their human equivalents), their panic and their resilience and their evacuation from the tree. In the end, the audience is asked to vote whether the See-Saw Tree should be saved or not.
Notes:
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1st Produced:
Redgrave Theatre, Farnham
1986
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Amber Lane Press, Oxford/Samuel French, London, 1987
Music:
-
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Genre:
Children's Play with Songs Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: 16 characters
Further Reference:
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Top of PageSelfish Shellfish, The
Synopsis:
the SELFISH SHELLFISH looks at a serious contemporary issue in an entertaining, though not flippant, way. the author hopes that young audience's concern about oil pollution will be encouraged by this story. Life for the Rockpool dwellers is full of uncertainty. Every new tide brings fresh surprises or new problems. Rockpool refugees, Starfish and her young nephew, Urchin, together with the residents Mussel, the Giant Anemone and the cantankerous Old Hermit Crab, cope reasonably well with their insecure existence - until Seagull brings them warning of a possible catastrophe: the Great Slick is coming. . .
Notes:
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1st Produced:
Redgrave Theatre, Farnham
1983
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Amber Lane Press, Oxford/Samuel French, London, 1983
Music:
-
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Genre:
Children's Play with Songs Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: 7 characters
Further Reference:
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Top of PageSpot's Birthday Party
Synopsis:
In this adaptation of the very popular SPOT books, David Wood has created an exciting introduction to theatre for small children. Using the simple plot of a birthday party, complete with entertainer, Spot (a puppy) and his animal friends, Steve (a monkey), Tom ( a crocodile), and Helen (a Hippo), helped by Sam and Sally (Spot's Mother and Father), enjoy the birthday party, reflecting children's early experiences such as guests arriving, present-giving, game-playing and going home thank-yous. there is a certain amount of fun educational content as well as masses of audience participation throughout. the children are treated more as party guests than simply as spectators. there is plenty of fun for the actors, too, with singing, character movement and, optionally, some acrobatic skills to show off!
Notes:
from the books by Eric Hill
1st Produced:
Organisations:
Musical Play for Children
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 2002
Music:
-
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Genre:
Adaptation
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of Pagethere Was An Old Woman
Synopsis:
the play was written specifically as a small cast musical, but with a large chorus of children. Mother Shipton is written as a 'Dame' character, but she has been played successfully by both male and female actors. Though Mother Shipton's shoe is crowded to its laces, she lives there happily with her vast brood of children, among them Jack and Jill. Unfortunately, however, the shoe is actually the property of a Giant, who lost it and has been looking for it - with one bare foot - ever since. One day the Great Boon arrives, a genial and charming, but not terribly efficient, magician, looking for a Circus in which he is due to appear. His attempts to save Mother Shipton and family from the Giant involve the loss of her shoe because he is unable to bring the Giant down to human size and harmlessness without also reducing the shoe. However, after a lot of adventures and muddled magic all ends happily. there is even a Circus with all the acts provided by Mother Shipton's talented children.
Notes:
-
1st Produced:
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1980
Music:
-
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Genre:
Musical Play for Children Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: 6 main parts
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageTickle
Synopsis:
A workman goes into a cafe and is served too much pepper. He complains of a tickle in his noses and sneezes too violently. the 'tickle' is ejected - and arrives, pathetic as a new-born baby, on the stage. He is only anxious to find a friend and a home, but apparently nobody likes a Tickle. He becomes involved with three wicked Germs, causes chaos in a Fair and elsewhere, but finally finds his friend and a safe home - with a laughing hyena
Notes:
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1st Produced:
Schools
1972
Organisations:
Dance Drama Theatre
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1978
Music:
-
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Genre:
Childrens Musical Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: 5 Female: 3 Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageTiger Who Came To Tea, The
Synopsis:
the doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don't expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! For the first time ever, this much loved tale of a tiger creating tea time mayhem is brought vividly to life on stage in a show packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. Expect to be surprised! the Tiger Who Came To Tea is suitable for children aged three and above and is designed to develop literacy and listening skills.
Notes:
David Wood's Adaptation of Judith Kerr's Award-winning picture book.
1st Produced:
Organisations:
Nick Brooke Ltd and Kenny Wax Ltd
1st Published:
Plays For Young Audiences
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
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Genre:
TYA adaptation
Parts:
Male: 1 Female: 2 Other: -
Further Reference:
Theatre Record Vol XXXI (2011) Page 0764 - [Theatre: Vaudeville]
Theatre Record Vol XXXII (2012) Page 0775 - [Theatre: Lyric]
Theatre Record Vol XXXIV (2014) Page 0860 - [Theatre: Lyric]
Theatre Record Vol XXXII (2012) Page 0775 - [Theatre: Lyric]
Theatre Record Vol XXXIV (2014) Page 0860 - [Theatre: Lyric]
Top of PageTom's Midnight Garden
Synopsis:
This play is an adaptation of Philippa Pearce's 1950s classic boy's nightly voyage to a Victorian past. Quarantined in his Aunt's and Uncle's stuffy flat because his brother has measles, Tom is restless and bored. Intrigued by a GrandFather clock, religiously wound by the elderly owner of the house, Mrs. Bartholomew, Tom is startled one night to hear the clock strike thirteen! Slipping out of bed he goes to what in his time is a concrete backyard, only to discover a beautiful Victorian garden of the 1880s. He meets the unhappy orphan, Hatty, who initially is the only person who can see him, and he visits her each night at the same hour, writing enthusiastically to his brother, Peter, about his adventures. But although Tom stays the same exuberant 10-year-old, Hatty grows into a young woman during these visits. Before the story can reach its outcome, Tom has to return to his parents, but the truth is revealed in a touching denouement.
Notes:
from book by Philippa Pearce
1st Produced:
Pleasance, London
2000
Organisations:
Unicorn
1st Published:
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
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Booksellers:
Genre:
Adaptation
Parts:
Male: 5 Female: 3 Other: children
Further Reference:
Theatre Record Vol XX (2000) Page 1301 - [Theatre: Pleasance - London]
Theatre Record Vol XXII (2002) Page 1793 - [Theatre: Library - Manchester]
Theatre Record Vol XXV (2005) Page 1583 - [Theatre: Unicorn]
Theatre Record Vol XXVII (2007) Page 1538 - [Theatre: Library - Manchester]
Theatre Record Vol XXXII (2012) Page 1305 - [Theatre: Bloomsbury]
Theatre Record Vol XXII (2002) Page 1793 - [Theatre: Library - Manchester]
Theatre Record Vol XXV (2005) Page 1583 - [Theatre: Unicorn]
Theatre Record Vol XXVII (2007) Page 1538 - [Theatre: Library - Manchester]
Theatre Record Vol XXXII (2012) Page 1305 - [Theatre: Bloomsbury]
Top of PageTwits, The
Set in a circus ring, which offers great opportunities for a spectacular production, this adaptation brings Dahl's ideas to life and has the confidence to add something new. Bored with playing silly tricks on one another, the grotesque, satisfyingly revolting couple, Mr & Mrs Twit, turn their attentions to capturing and training a family of monkeys, the Muggle-wumps, for a circus act. the monkey's cruel incarceration in a cage is avenged when the Birds, led by the Roly-Poly Bird, trick the Twits into believing the world has turned up-side-down. the audience helps in the trick by pretending to be up-side-down (they put their shoes on their outstretched hands).
Notes:
book by Roald Dahl
1st Produced:
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 2000
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
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Genre:
Childrens Play with music Youth Audience
Parts:
Male: 3 Female: 3 Other: children
Further Reference:
Top of PageWhat's the Big Secret?
Synopsis:
-
Notes:
Based on the book by Roald Dahl
1st Produced:
-
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Contained in: "Danny the Champion Of the World - Plays For Children" published by Puffin Books 2009
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
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Genre:
Childrens play
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageWhile Dad's Away
Synopsis:
-
Notes:
Based on the book by Roald Dahl
1st Produced:
-
Organisations:
-
1st Published:
Contained in: "Danny the Champion Of the World - Plays For Children" published by Puffin Books 2009
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
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Genre:
Childrens play
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: -
Further Reference:
-
Top of PageWitches, The
Synopsis:
This is a faithful adaptation of Roald Dahl's classic story in which Boy and his Grandmother defeat the Grand High Witch and her followers, who are holding a Conference in an English seaside hotel. During the struggle, Boy gets turned into a mouse. the Witches are nothing like the ones who wear pointed hats and fly on broomsticks - they look very much like ordinary women, which helps their deception. the play offers many opportunities for illusions and inventive puppetry. Humour is provided by the vulgar Jenkins family, whose son, Bruno, also becomes a mouse.
Notes:
book by Roald Dahl
1st Produced:
Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield
1992
Organisations:
Clarion Productions
1st Published:
Samuel French, London, 1993
Music:
-
To Buy This Play:
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Genre:
family play Adaptation
Parts:
Male: - Female: - Other: 10 + Fxtras
Further Reference:
Theatre Record Vol XII (1992) Page 1547 - [Theatre: Duke of York's]
Theatre Record Vol XVI (1996) Page 1622 - [Theatre: Vaudeville]
Theatre Record Vol XXIV (2004) Page 1757 - [Theatre: Birmingham Rep]
Theatre Record Vol XXV (2005) Page 0294 - [Theatre: Wyndham's]
Theatre Record Vol XVI (1996) Page 1622 - [Theatre: Vaudeville]
Theatre Record Vol XXIV (2004) Page 1757 - [Theatre: Birmingham Rep]
Theatre Record Vol XXV (2005) Page 0294 - [Theatre: Wyndham's]
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