David Foxton's Plays
All the plays are also list by category below. Click on the arrows 
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For each play you will find details of cast, settings, and subject matter along with how to purchase copies and secure performance rights. Any questions regarding the plays of David Foxton should be sent to:judith.wood5@btinternet.com
A Tale of Two Whittingtons (Cast: 8F 8M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Fairytale - Various interior and exteriors settings.
Puss, a lively commentator, recounts the story of one of his/her nine lives, the one that features Dick Whittington. Dick, an orphan, leaves his relatives’ home under a cloud but with his cat - and is pursued by his distant and non-too-bright cousin, Lancelot. On the road to London (Down South) he manages to save Alderman Fitzwarren and his attractive daughter, Alice, from the incompetent clutches of three highway robbers. The Alderman rewards Dick with a job, and the thwarted robbers team up with Lancelot to have their revenge on Dick. In London Dick discovers that working for Sarah, the Alderman's cook, is not all fun and he decides to leave his new employ only to be summoned back by the sound of London’s bells and the hint of rewards to come. On his return he is sent on a sea-voyage to an Eastern country where his trusty cat does wonders in ridding the place of its rats. The result is riches for Dick, a triumphant return, marriage to Alice, and guess who becomes Lord Mayor of London.
Alice (Cast: 6F 6M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Edwardian - various interior and exterior.
A clever adaptation of “Alice in Wonderland”. Mr. Dodgson (Lewis Carroll himself) is attempting to take a photograph of the Liddell family. Alice becomes bored and wanders off and that’s when the White Rabbit shows up. All members of the Liddell family appear as characters from the story, which is kept as in the book. Finally, we return to the photograph situation and the picture is taken. Plenty of opportunities for an inventive director and an enthusiastic cast.
Beauty and the Beast (Cast: 5F 5M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Music Hall, Cottage, Street, Office, Beast‘s Palace.
Set in a Victorian/Edwardian Music Hall at which the Maynard Dodgson Theatre Company is to present "The Murders in the Rue Morgue". Unfortunately, their star performer 'The Beast of the Rue Morgue' escapes and the patron of the Company, Alderman Armitage, insists a show goes on - whatever. His daughter wants to see "Beauty and the Beast" ... the Company must do as she bids! Confusion and comedy ... and songs. A lively festive pre-Christmas Show.
Card Play or The Truth About The Knave Of Hearts (Cast: 8F 8M - but could be split differently)
(Published by Samuel French Ltd: https://www.concordtheatricals.co.uk/s/5567/card-play)
Settings: Behind the scenes/dressing area of a large Sports Stadium, Outside and then Inside 'The Bridge Club'
The characters in this play are all playing cards but they are presented as though they might be a team of football players. The storyline follows the attempts by the wicked Queen of Spades (Q) to pursue a dastardly plan to steal the trophies at the forthcoming big match, aided by the Knave of Diamonds (Jack Flash). The story of the Queen of Hearts and her cookery competition for the best plate of tarts is interwoven, and the plan ultimately founders thanks to the effort of the 6 of Diamonds and the humble 2.
General Mousecatcher's Last Stand (Cast: 3/4F 4/3M + Extras - 5 minimum)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Modern - The floor of a child's play-room. Down the Mousehole.
Jack-in-the-Box (climbing out of his box) bemoans their situation with the Rag Doll, 'The General' (an old tin soldier) and Victoria (an ageing doll) - all of them are getting older and shabbier, and they foresee a time when they will be discarded to the dustbin. Their worst fears are encouraged by the superior attitude of `Action' and `Sam', two more recent doll additions to the playroom. All the toys have a common enemy in 'Mouse' and the way in which they all ultimately work together to thwart this enemy, and then to smarten up and repair their older comrades is the main story-line.
Gunfight at Monopoly End (Cast: 3F 5M + Children)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: The Toy Department and Christmas Grotto of a large department store.
Sam Woolley, the night watchman, of Harridges Store, is a cowboy fanatic and he tends to indulge his fantasies after the store closes each night. One night he encounters a group of children who have engineered their being locked in the Store so that they can play with the Christmas toys. Together they uncover a plot by the Department Manager and her deputy to abscond with the week's takings, aided and abetted by a criminal `Santa Claus' and two accomplices. In the style of a 'Western', with some detours through a Monopoly Game, the 'goodies' outsmart the 'baddies'.
Hansel & Gretel (cast: 7F 4M + Children 1F 1M + F/M Extras)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Mediaeval - The Town, The Woodcutter's Cottage, The Forest, Outside the Witch's Cottage, Inside the Witch's Cottage
Wilhelm and Jakob Grimm are working for Count Hegelstein undertaking a survey of his estates checking on witches, giants, ogres, etc., they are unaware of the presence of the witch Semolina Walpurgisnacht who has a liking for children (preferably cooked). The traditional story of Hansel & Gretel's involvement with the witch is retold with the added presence of the Grimm Brothers and some rather unpleasant Magpies (and other birds), the familiars of the Witch. As in the story the Witch ends up in the oven, but is ultimately taken out, done to a turn, and shared with the audience!
It's a Funny Way to Spend Christmas (Cast: 2F 6M + 5 Children + Extras possible)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: One Victorian Interior
A group of Victorian children sent to spend Christmas with their Uncle find his house ruled over by a tyrannical housekeeper and only one or two servants, with their uncle mysteriously 'not available'. Helped by the gardener, and hindered by the appearance of two suspicious chimney sweeps, Alf Jiggery and Joe Pokery, the children solve the mystery and discover the whereabouts of their uncle.
Ivan and the Firebird (Cast: 7F 18M)
(Published by Dramatic Publishing: https://www.dramaticpublishing.com/ivan-and-the-firebird)
Settings: Russian Fairytale, three specific sets plus an acting area that can be common to all.
A puppeteer and his assistant begin their performance of "Ivan and the Firebird" but switch to using the full stage when it becomes apparent that the puppets are too small for the audience to appreciate. Czar Vyslav, nagged incessantly by his wife over their country's short-comings, is overjoyed when his gardener, Simeon, produces an apple tree bearing golden fruit. Before he can use this ‘miracle' to his country's good the golden apples are stolen by the Firebird. Vyslav's three sons undertake to retrieve the apples, and the victor is promised that he will be heir to the throne. Their adventures are chronicled by the puppeteer, who controls the action of the play throughout, frequently `freezing' the performers to change the course of the storyline. An action-filled play with considerable opportunities for audience involvement and participation.
Oops! (Cast: 5F 6M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Three different settings, interior and exterior. The Early (or even Middle) Middle Ages.
Brutus Gallipot is a prolific but totally inept inventor. Amazingly he is chosen to represent his country at a Grand Inventors' Tournament that will determine the future ruler of that country. There is obviously skulduggery afoot, Brutus has been chosen because everyone knows he will lose - but why? Helped by an unwilling assistant 'Spot' and a friendly witch, Brutus battles his way to success. A fine selection of baddies and goodies, a wealth of 'special effects' and comedy situations.
Perkin and the Pastrycook (Cast: 2F 8M + Extras)
(Published by Samuel French Ltd: https://www.concordtheatricals.co.uk/p/12295/perkin-and-the-pastrycook)
Settings: Mediaeval - The Palace (West of the Tarsus River) The Lands East of the Tarsus River
This play continues the story of `The Emperor's New Clothes'- after all what did happen to the two confidence tricksters who persuaded the Emperor to wear an invisible suit? The story is that Perkin, the odd job man, and Wat the Pastrycook were entrusted with the task of guarding the two rogues; unfortunately, they escaped and Perkin and Wat had then the task of recapturing them - not easy when you consider how inept Wat was. The play chronicles their adventures and their ultimate success.
Red Riding Hood ....... and Robin (Cast: 4F 8M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Fairytale - A Jail, 2 Cottage interiors and the Forest.
Red Riding Hood is perhaps a rather 'thin' story - after all why doesn‘t the Wolf just eat her up in the forest rather than doing all the 'Grandma' impersonation stuff? This version actually has two wolves - a good guy and a bad guy - in fact the bad guy is really the Big Bad Wolf (of Three Little Pigs fame). This leads to quite a lot of mistaken identity business. Not only that but Red’s basket of 'goodies for Grandma' is actually loot from various robberies undertaken by Father Hood (aided by Mother Hood) which are to be 'fenced' by the Big Bad Wolf! Nor are Red, and her young brother Robin actually the true children of the thieving Hoods - they were in fact discovered asleep under a pile of leaves in the forest - is that who the Woodcutter is looking for? Add, for good measure - and confusion - Goldilocks who is on a Treasure Hunt looking for a cottage and three bears, her parents who are suitably concerned, two Jailers (one of whom is a pig) and Robin’s imaginary 'gang', and there is ample content for a play to share with, and among, a young audience.
Sleeping Beauty (Cast: 8F 7M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Fairytale - Several, mainly interior.
This must be one fairy-tale that everyone knows. At the Christening of a baby Princess an uninvited guest, who happens to be a Bad Fairy, curses the child to die by pricking her finger - and in later life the pricking happens but the Princess in fact sleeps for one hundred years only to be ultimately woken by a kiss from a handsome Prince. This particular dramatisation of the story aims to fill out this basic plot. We meet the Pinsmith and his wife whose plans to become the Royal Supplier of Safety Pins and similar goods take a tumble after the curse is made. We meet Tom Bream who is responsible for the non-delivery of the vital invitation to the Bad Fairy. These three become a force determined to protect the Princess from 'fatal' pinpricks, and foil all the Bad Fairy's scheming. The King and Queen and their Court all play their part in protecting the Princess and convoluting the plot.
Snow White and the Magnificent Seven (Cast: 7F 6M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Fairytale/Cowboy Style - Palace, Forest, Cottage.
The well-known story of Snow White versus the Wicked Queen ... who has an aversion, if not a phobia about small people. That's where the 'Seven' come in. The usual talking mirror, and the handsome prince plus a selection of lesser-known 'servants' and travelling performers who become vital to the unravelling of the well-loved tale.
That's the Way To Do It (Cast: 3F 5M + 5 Children)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Modern - Outside, Backstage and Onstage at the Punch & Judy Show
Mr. Punch has run away - he can't stand the pace any longer - a replacement has to be found - the Clown and the Ghost persuade the local Milkman to stand in. A 'Punch & Judy' show is performed by actors playing the glove-puppets and during the show a fiendish plott is uncovered whereby Jack Ketch (both Hangman and manager) conspires with Judy to swindle the company out of their takings. Thanks to the efforts of the new Mr. Punch and the other characters - including the Policeman, the Sausages and the Crocodile - the villains receive their due desserts.
The 29th Voyage of Sinbad (Cast: 7F 8M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Arabian Nights Style - Sindbad‘s House, Beneath the House, The Palace.
Sindbad is off again ... yet another voyage. As his mother helps him pack, a slave girl escaping from the Sultan's harem takes refuge in Sindbad's house - throwing herself on his mercy. The intervention of the magician, Imkah causes Sindbad, and the girl, and his servant to reduce in size ... and ultimately disappear below the floor. The 'voyage' is now one of their being pursued in this new 'world' by the Sultan's guards (also reduced in size). Their discovery of the Sultan's valuable ring (assumed stolen by the fleeing slave girl) ... and their return to normal size brings about a happy ending. A colourful and clever plot with plenty of scope for effects and even a spot of belly-dancing.
The Crowns, the King and the Long Lost Smile (Cast: 3F 7M + Extras)
(Published by Samuel French Ltd: https://www.concordtheatricals.co.uk/p/54677/the-crowns-the-king-and-the-long-lost-smile)
Settings: Various locations. Mediaeval.
The play tells the story of how the Crown Troupe - Thomas, Ben, Will and Sally - a strolling band of mediaeval entertainers, help the Princess Dulcinea find her father the King, who has been kidnapped by the wicked Baron Drax, and thus regain her long lost smile. The easily staged settings encourage plenty of audience participation.
The Dream Pirates (Cast: 5F 5M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Edwardian/Victorian - several interiors and exteriors.
In a large old house, Miss Ellie is kept a virtual invalid by a domineering Governess, a sinister Doctor, and the Cook. Only the kitchen maid, Ada, seems to pity Ellie’s situation - until their world is invaded by a chimney-sweep’s boy, Tom, escaping from Grimes, his master. In helping Tom to escape the clutches of Grimes, Ellie herself is encouraged to escape from her 'jailers', taking refuge up the chimneys. We learn that Miss Ellie is an heiress and is deliberately being made an invalid in order to prevent her receiving her inheritance, so instead of escaping the fugitives return to face their enemies. A final battle ensures in which the master of the house, an ex-Indian Army Colonel becomes involved thinking he is shooting pheasants. And who are the 'Dream Pirates'? They live under the bed and are figments of Miss Ellie's imagination - until they seemingly materialise!
The Emperor's New Clothes or Five Beans for Jack (Cast: 6F 7M)
(Published by Samuel French Ltd: https://www.concordtheatricals.co.uk/p/5230/the-emperors-new-clothes-or-five-beans-for-jack)
Settings: Fairytale meets Melodrama - A Town Square, a Palace ... and bits in-between.
Tom, 'Tink', Bell is the Town Crier - but not a very good one. Thanks to his mistake the proclamation about the forthcoming birthday of the Emperor announces that there will be a birthday celebration every week! The sheer cost of it all upsets the Lord Chamberlain and the Treasurer, Abacus. However, the thought delights Emperor Persimmon and his wife Petronella, and positively thrills Sly and Wily - two tricksters always on the look out to make fast money. In fact, some of the money they literally did 'make' is circulating - forged money! 'Tink' and his daughter, Abigail, unwittingly possess some - and it leads to Abi's imprisonment. Meantime Jack sells his cow for five 'magic' beans and his mother is irate about it. Jack’s adventures up the ensuing beanstalk become interwoven with the tricksters’ major scheme to sell the Emperor an invisible suit. Yes, it does sound complicated but the bits do fit together.
The Imperial Nightingale (Cast: 4/5 F 8/7M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Chinese - The Palace, the Forest, the Palace Garden.
A latecomer to the play interrupts the announcements about the Audience with the Emperor of China, and in trying to sort out the seating problem both the Usher and the Latecomer become involved in the play itself. The young Emperor, dominated by his Nanny, Lady Tuk-Sum, has everything he wants - except a nightingale. So, the Latecomer (Eh Too) and the Usher (Sit Soo) are sent with two others - How Hi (who is a Chinaman as we all know) and Ah Yes (his young assistant) to find, catch and return with a nightingale and its beautiful song. Straightforward eh? No way! Lady Tuk-Sum wants the throne, the nightingale could be her bargaining power - she sends the vicious Dragon Master to follow our heroes and 'obtain' the nightingale ... by any means. Meantime the Mikado of Japan sends a gift of a golden nightingale. Which will prove to be the best? Add to this story, chases, disguises, spies, Chinese lion-dragons, smoke, U.V. lights and, believe it or not, ultimately Widow Twankey, and there is a feast of entertainment for family audiences.
The Pied Piper (Cast: 7F 5M + 5 Children - one must be F + Extras)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Mediaeval - The Auditorium, Hamelin City Hall, A Picnic, The Council Chamber, Rat's Party, City Hall
The old fable (and poem) told from the Rats' viewpoint. Not many people realise that the Rats were actually summoned to Hamelin by the evil Mayor and Mayoress, who wanted to drive all the citizens out and confiscate their property and the city's treasure. Led by Monty and Rommel, the Rats make their invasion and are amazed that the humans can actually be bigger 'rats' than they are themselves. Meanwhile the search for a rat-catcher goes on and ultimately the one least likely to succeed is appointed - after all who can possibly `charm' rats away? But it works; then the Mayor goes back on his agreement with the devastating results to the City that we are all familiar with. This is an unusual adaptation in which actors (actresses) must play the Rats both as glove puppets and on human scale. Some music is included.
The Real Story of Puss in Boots (Cast: 5F 5M)
(Published by Samuel French Ltd: https://www.concordtheatricals.co.uk/p/10999/the-real-story-of-puss-in-boots)
Settings: Fairytale - interiors and exterior.
The story of "Puss in Boots" is ingeniously combined with that of ”Cinderella• in this hilarious new show. Humble Colin Miller, who is terrorized by his half-brother Caleb, undergoes his own Cinderella-like transformation into Prince Charming, with the aid of Puss in Boots. Puss’s original owner, the magical Martha Winterhedge, is enlisted as Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother and helps her to become the beautiful Princess Priscilla, despite the meddling of her stepsisters Drusilla and Blusilla. Once a not-so-wicked Ogre has been subdued, Prince Charming and Princess Priscilla can marry, thus providing happy endings for both their stories. Outrageous characters, a wealth of jokes and a fast-paced plot make this a hugely likeable show, which can be performed by a small cast without songs, thus being eminently suitable for any scale of production.
The Snow Queen (Cast: 6F 7M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Russian Folk Tale - A Street, The Palace of the Snow Queen, Her Sleigh, The Steppes, The Robbers' Den, The Winter Palace.
When the Snow Queen's special mirror is broken a small sliver of glass enters the heart of the boy 'K' and some glass dust goes in his eye. The way he sees things and the feelings he has change so that he now recognises only the ugly side of things. He rejects his life-long friend, Gerda, and is tempted away by the icy Snow Queen. Gerda pursues 'K', keen to see him become his old self once more. In her search she is aided by Ichabod Weatherbee, who is a friendly weather planner and organiser. Through Ichabod, Gerda meets up with Jack Frost (and his infernal sneezes), the Snow Queen’s aides - Hail and Sleet (a pathetic duo) and the Fog Lady from Lapland who knits fog! As her quest progresses, Gerda has to contend with the wicked activities of the robbers - the bearded Boris, and his equally wicked wife - the even more bearded Olga - and their spoilt brat of a daughter, Natalya, together with the villainous Ivan and Vlad.
When Gerda finally faces the Snow Queen she realises that to reassemble the mirror means removing glass from K‘s heart - can it be done? And what of the reindeer? And the weather doors? And global warming?
The Tailor of Gloucester - with music by David Fletcher (Cast: 5F 4M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Two interiors.
”In the time of swords and periwigs and full-skirted coats with flowered lappets - when gentlemen wore ruffles, and gold-laced waistcoats of paduasoy and taffeta - there lived a tailor in Gloucester. So begins Beatrix Potter‘s celebrated Christmas story - the story of the poor tailor and the way he aimed to make his name and his fortune by making a very special coat and waistcoat for the Mayor of Gloucester. All looked to be going favourably for him until he fell ill and could not carry on his work ... but the mice who lived beneath his floors remembered his kindness to them and lent a helping hand. In this free adaptation we meet not only the tailor and his family, but also the mice.
The Wind in the Willows (Cast: 5F 4M + M/F Animal Characters)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Edwardian - The Riverbank A Woodland Glade, The Courtroom, A Prison Cell, Badger's House, Toad Hall
An ingenious adaptation of Kenneth Grahame's original story. The well-known antics of that likeable rogue Mr. Toad are related together with the attempts of his friends Mole, Rat and Badger to restrain and reform him. However, in this version the presence of the villainous Ferrets, Weasels and Stoats is far more apparent so that the final confrontation at Toad Hall is a real battle of good versus evil, with Mr. Toad redeeming himself. (Note: directors of this play may be pleased to know that Alfred the Horse does not appear!).
Treasure Island (Cast: 3F 27M + Extras)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: 'The Admiral Benbow' Inn, Bristol, On board the 'Hispaniola' The Island.
Adapted from Stevenson's classic story, the play follows the action of the book closely with the scenes, planned for an open stage presentation, flowing easily from one to the other. There is a provision for songs to be included; and the introduction of a grown-up ‘Jim Hawkins' gives a nice twist to the end of the play.
After the Picnic (Cast: 8F)
(Published by Cressrelles Publishing Company Limited: https://cressrelles.co.uk Listed under ‘All-Women Plays’)
Setting: Composite set of various locations. Early 20th century, Australia.
A play that reveals an explanation to the mysterious and dramatic events that happened in the well-known novel and film 'Picnic at Hanging Rock'.
Breakfast for One (Cast: 2F 3M)
(Published by Samuel French Ltd: https://www.concordtheatricals.co.uk/s/12016/breakfast-for-one)
Setting: The apartment of Monsieur and Madame Signac in Paris, circa 1895. Not-too-early morning.
Marcel Morisot arrives at the Signac home hoping for a glimpse of his beloved Marie-Celeste, a dancer. Honorine, the maid, confuses Marcel with the chimney-sweep and then confuses Claude, a marauding vagrant, with Marcel. Yvette, the lady of the house, becomes convinced Marcel is a down-and-out in need of shelter... The scene is set for a raucous, swiftly-moving comedy of mistaken identities, shotguns, confusion with an unexpectedly happy ending for all concerned.
Caught on the Hop (Cast: 3F 2M)
(Published by Samuel French Ltd: https://www.concordtheatricals.co.uk/p/57211/caught-on-the-hop-foxton)
Setting: A room or hall-way in a Paris apartment sometime in the 1890s.
Returning home unexpectedly early from a rendezvous with her lover, Sophie Fontaineau finds that her husband Etienne is absent and immediately suspects him of philandering. She accidentally spills brandy on her porter's trousers; the poor man soon finds himself trouserless behind a screen, desperately worried by the return of Etienne, who is disguised as The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Further complications ensue when Etienne's lover, "Esmeralda", appears and recognises the porter - now disguised as Sophie's aged aunt - as her husband. All is finally resolved ... or is it? Clothilde, the long-suffering maid, provides the final twist to this delightful comedy.
Crush (Cast: 2F 3M + 5 Girls)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Composite set of various locations - 1950's.
Based on a factual story the play tells of the love that grows between two schoolgirls to the extent that in order to be continually linked they are prepared to commit murder.
Death of a Huntsman (Cast: 3F 4M)
(This adaptation has been approved by the H.E. Bates Estate).
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Composite set of various locations.
Adapted from a short story by H. E. Bates. Harry Barnfield is a middle-aged city businessman with a small country estate, a shrewish wife with a liking for gin, and a fondness of horse-riding even though he has little skill at it. A meeting with a young girl rider crossing his land leads to a relationship that opens new vistas for Harry ... the girl is the daughter of a former 'old flame' of Harry which in turn leads to tragic consequences when the mother wants to rekindle their times together. This adaptation retains much of H.E. Bates’ fine descriptive writing.
It Runs in the Family (Cast: 3F 2M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: The dining area of a fashionable town house in Paris. Early 20th Century.
Pierre Latour has delusions of grandeur and feels sure he is related to nobility - and English nobility at that. His wife is perplexed by his fondness for everything English and her worries are aggravated by the arrival of her recently divorced sister who believes that Pierre's actions suggest he has another woman somewhere. Monique, the maid, thinks Pierre has eyes on her and mistakes much he says as evidence of this situation. The entrance of the 'detective', Raoul Parquerre solves many questions - but not as Pierre would have hoped. A series of misunderstandings creates one humorous situation after another resulting in a highly comic finale.
Mirage (Cast: 2F 4M)
(Published by Samuel French Ltd: https://www.concordtheatricals.co.uk/p/11114/mirage)
Setting: A Country House in the late 1920's.
Desmond and Pamela Borage have been invited to a weekend house-party by Gerald and Evadne Fairfax. Pamela and Gerald are looking forward to a 'fling' together, Desmond is fraught, believing he is being pursued by the French Foreign Legion, and Evadne is beset by a strange man in her room. The arrival of the world's worst ukulele player, Dinsdale Morton, complicates matters while Butters, the impassive butler, attempts to maintain decorum. This is a comedy of manners. It is farcical but not a farce, and requires style and a languid measured pace in playing. Think Wodehouse and Coward not Ben Travers and Brian Rix.
Office Practice (Cast: 2F 2M + Extras M/F)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: A composite set. Present.
An enigmatic play that revolves around management games and role-playing exercises happening within a large industry.
One Good Turn (Cast: 2F 2M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: The Parisian house of M. Edouard Marchand and his wife. Spring 1898.
Edouard Marchand's young wife, Yvette, disenchanted with her mundane life, takes advantage of her husband's cold to pack him off to a solitary bed with a drugged nightcap so that she can entertain Jean-Claude, a young philanderer she has met at a local bistro. Edouard awakes earlier than anticipated and becomes aware of an unexpected 'visitor' in his house. Yvette insists that the visitor is in fact a doctor brought in to treat her husband's cold. Victorine, the maid, suggests he is an entertainer. After all, it is Edouard's birthday - perhaps he is a magician. Jean-Claude’s attempts to live up to everyone's expectations lead to a frantic series of comic situations.
Sacred to the Memory (aka Syndrome) (Cast: 5F 7M)
(This play is potentially suitable for older Youth Theatre Groups)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Several locations. Present.
A young boy’s pre-occupation with death leads ultimately to his joining the Army. He is sent to the Middle East and on his return is considerably changed, the 'syndrome' leading to tragic events.
The Followers (Cast: 7F 5M – some doubling possible)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Composite set of street locations.
A stage adaptation of the story by Dylan Thomas: this adaptation has the approval of the Dylan Thomas Estate. The seemingly harmless activity of following people home leads to unusual and startling revelations.
The Queen of Spain Fritillary (Cast: 6F 1M)
(This adaptation has been approved by the H.E. Bates Estate).
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Two house locations. Late 1920s and later.
Adapted from the short story by H. E. Bates. In her late middle age Laura looks back to a period of her youth when a mild flirtation with an older man led to unforeseeable consequences.
A Memory of Lizzie (Cast: 2F + 12 F/M)
Setting: Composite – America. 1870.
The gruesome, true story of Lizzie Borden, accused of murdering both her parents, told by a group of schoolchildren, including Lizzie herself, through a series of "flashforwards" in time.
I was A Good Little Girl, 'Til... (Cast: 36 Characters - doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 26F 7M)
Settings: Various. England. 1900-1920.
Main events in the Women's Suffrage Movement leading to their ultimate enfranchisement. With songs.
Titanic (Cast: 64 Characters - doubling/trebling possible. Original Cast 28F 9M)
Settings: Various. 1910-1912
The story of the "Titanic", its conception and its ill-fated maiden voyage. With songs.
The Godmother (Cast: 16F 5M)
Settings: American city: Theatrical Agent’s Office, Night Club. 1920s.
A 'spoof' gangster story of the same era as "Bugsy Malone", in which the girls ultimately take control. With songs.
These four plays were published by Nelson Thornes in a single volume entitled "Sepia and Song". Although presently out of print, copies can be found on Amazon, ebay, abebooks and a range of other websites. Copies are also available by emailing judith.wood5@btinternet.com.
For performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com
Ambush (Cast:13 F/M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: An elegant room or hallway in a large mansion. Present.
A group of young 'freedom fighters' take refuge in a stately home. They have been ambushed on their way to attack some kind of military outpost. They are wounded and scared. Who tipped off the authorities - is it one of their own number? And where are the owners of the house, why is there no indication of the house on their maps, who is the mysterious 'servant', why are they not being pursued? Are they alive or dead?
Amy (Cast: 50 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 16F 5M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Various locations around the world!
A documentary play based on the life and achievements of Amy Johnson, the first woman to fly solo to Australia and a pioneer in early aviation generally. The play includes the memorable flight itself! Songs included.
ChCl3 (Cast: 34 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 7F 13M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: A courtroom. 1886.
Based on the true story of Adelaide Bartlett who, allegedly, poisoned her husband with chloroform. All experts claimed it was impossible for anyone to drink chloroform, but somehow Adelaide’s powers of persuasion over her husband were outstanding. Quite amazingly, however, Adelaide was acquitted of the crime. The play explores the character of Adelaide Bartlett and the sequence of events that lead to her trial.
Daft (Cast: 58 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 9F 7M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Various locations, Bradford. 1858.
Bradford 1858, and a maker of sweets inadvertently adds 'arsenic' to his peppermint mixture rather than 'daft' (a mixture of plaster and stone powder) which was usual. The resultant illnesses and deaths led to Government legislation on the adulteration of foodstuffs. A strong documentary piece.
Figments (Cast: 30 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 12F 6M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Supermarket. Present.
Two young people let their imagination run riot in a supermarket. What if ... you filled other people's trolleys with items when they weren't looking, what if ... you ate items from the shelves as you walked round, what if ... the supermarket had a formation trolley-pushing team, what if ... there was an alien force at work. Are they all figments of their over-active imaginations? Or are there other reasons for the strange goings-on?
The Incredible Flying Circus (Cast: 80 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 30 F/M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: A circus ring.
The story of the development of aviation told in sketches and routines (some music involved) from stone-age times (the invention of the wheel) via Icarus and the early pioneers of man's attempts to fly. Fast, furious and played as a Circus performance throughout. Scope for an inventive director and an exuberant large cast. Note: Add Amy as a second play and there is a full evening's entertainment.
Goodnight, Children Everywhere (Cast: 24 characters. Original cast 12F 12M) (Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: A junior school in the North of England. December 1942.
It is early in World War II and at the village school rehearsals are well advanced for the Nativity Play. Then the evacuees arrive - and they too were rehearsing a Nativity Play prior to their being moved away from London. How can the two plays be successfully combined without creating confrontations?
Kenneth (Cast: 23 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 7F 5M)
(Published Cressrelles Publishing Company Limited, https://cressrelles.co.uk Listed under One-Act Mixed Cast Plays)
Setting: Composite. Present.
We never see 'Kenneth', but in a series of short and poignant scenes the character is created by what others relate. Kenneth is a pathetic and abused child who ultimately is 'forgotten' in tragic circumstances.
Let's Play Soldiers (from the story by H.E. Bates) (Cast: 10F 12M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Composite. WWI.
Children playing soldiers and the harsh reality of World War I - these two themes are brought together in a poignant and touching manner. Much of H.E. Bates descriptive passages is retained.
This adaptation has been approved by the H.E. Bates' Estate.
Magdalene (Cast 12F 5M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: In and around The Magdalene Asylum, Ireland. 1940s.
There were ten Magdalene Asylums spread across Ireland. Originally intended to chastise and redeem prostitutes, by the 1940s the majority of their inmates were unmarried mothers frequently sent by their family to avoid scandal or shame. It is estimated that until the closing of the last Magdalene Asylum in 1996, 30,000 young women had been condemned in this way.
Maisie Makes Her Mark (Cast: 12F)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Girls’ School Hall and Stage. 1920s/1930s.
An exclusive girls' boarding school takes a 'scholarship girl into their midst. It soon becomes clear that 'Maisie' can perhaps teach the upper-class girls some useful 'life-skills'. A period piece in the 'Angela Brazil' style.
No Smoke (Cast: 47 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 16 F/M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com).
Setting: Various locations in a large city. Present.
A sequence of events based around a young married couple and their personal and financial problems. Centred on a housing estate where petty crime flourishes, teenagers enjoy the excitement of arson, and older people feel vulnerable and unable to fight back.
Oubliette (Cast: 22 characters – doubling possible. Original cast 12F 4M)
(Published by Samuel French Ltd: https://www.concordtheatricals.co.uk/p/10946/oubliette)
Setting: A newly-re-opened 'secret' room in a medieval castle now open to the public: the present and the past.
As the present-day guides theorise to the visitors about the historical use of the door-less, window-less room, we see in flashback what happened there back in the 16th century; how the female servants were forced to steal to order, how the Lord fell in love with a girl who was accused of witchcraft, how plague struck the village and how the Lord's brother sealed him, his devoted servant Anne and the girl into the oubliette where they subsequently died. Anne's ghost links the past to the present in this atmospheric and moving play.
Official Secrets (Cast: 59 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 18 F/M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Composite.
An old General is being interviewed by a young enthusiastic reporter about his First World War exploits. His memory is somewhat erratic but it is clear that his promotion from the ranks owed much to chicanery and double dealing ... little wonder that he claims he was a personal friend of Mata Hari. A humorous little story with many delightful characters and a whole host of spies.
Rabbit (Cast:15 F/M)
(Published by Samuel French Ltd: https://www.concordtheatricals.co.uk/p/3976/rabbit)
Setting: A ruined building. Future.
A pathetic group of children who survived a nuclear attack attempt to make a life and a community for themselves with little sophistication of language and communication and the continual threat and fear of intruders and illness.
Repeat Performance (Cast: 8F 4M + 1 F/M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Various parts of a graveyard.
A young girl, jilted by her boyfriend, has an encounter in a graveyard with a girl from the past. This fellow 'spirit' has a strange story to tell in which her modern-day counterpart becomes actively involved. A mystery is revealed and the strands of the story, which seem separated by time, are ultimately brought together in a surprising way.
Showdown at Coyote Flatts (Cast: 12F 7M + 1 F/M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Western – Site of town after and before the ‘Showdown’.
Spoof 'Western' in the best 'B' movie tradition. All the usual happenings - gunfights, Indians, saloon girls, gold-prospectors, good guys, bad guys, drunken doctors, corrupt sheriffs, girls with hearts of gold.
Sawney Bean (Cast: 30 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 13 F/M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting; Various locations, Scotland.
The legend of the Scottish cannibal 'Sawney Bean'. Sawney's career as thief and cannibal is explored in a series of lurid scenes that portray his family's life style and their ultimately being brought to justice. A gruesome tale.
Sleeping Dogs (Cast: 10F 5M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Various locations in and around a school.
A new girl, Julie, arrives at school. It soon becomes clear to her classmates that she is sparing with the truth, and her boasting and her exaggerating coupled with the blatant lying lead to antagonism and resentment - especially when she deliberately implicates one of the class and brings about an exclusion. But how much of what she says is actually true, can anything be believed? In taking steps to ensure that Julie is punished, the class adopts a plan that has chilling results.
Someone (Cast: 30 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 11 F/M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Various locations and periods.
Why were the pyramids built? Who was 'Jack the Ripper'? Who actually wrote Shakespeare's plays? Who was the 'Man in the Iron Mask'? Someone knows the answer to these questions. What if that 'someone' was an alien with a part to play in all these stories?
Son of Cinderella (Cast: 13F 5M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Theatrical agent’s office and theatre.
Cinderella married Prince Charming and they had a son - who is left in the loving care of his two ugly Aunties - Auntie Macasser and Auntie Phlogistene. Needless to say he is forced to dress as a girl and do all the dirty work around the house. And then there's a fairy godmother ... A re-working, with considerable licence, of the Cinderella tale ... involving other fairy-story, nursery rhyme characters (who are looking for work).
The 'B' Team (Cast: 9F 1M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Composite. Present.
A school's Second Netball team (the 'B' team) meet up, having been left school some time, to discuss their success in adult life. No-one has really made it ... they still are very much second-raters. So together they look to new careers - as thieves, and carry out a raid on a betting-shop. Despite being more than somewhat incompetent they do ultimately make good.
The Big Finish - includes music and cheerleader routines (Cast 10F 2M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Composite. Present.
A team of cheerleaders was desperate for more members to complete their team and enable them to enter a prestigious competition. Two boys who are witnesses to a hold-up are on the run from the gang who did the job, and take sanctuary in the cheerleaders' headquarters. What better disguise than to become part of the team (including wigs and tights!). Will the team win with their new members?
The Child Buyer (Cast: 28 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 12F 5M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Composite - London. 1912 and 1885.
A documentary piece based on the story of the celebrated 19th century journalist, W.T. Stead's involvement in the campaign to end child prostitution which prompted him to actually prove it was possible to buy a 13 year-old-girl. The events were chronicled in his own newspaper 'The Pall Mall Gazette', and brought about both his going to prison and the raising of the age of consent to 16.
The Moonlighters (Cast: 27 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 15 F/M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: A film studio
At the 'Monster Club' well-known film monsters bemoan being type-cast so often. They would really like the opportunity to try different roles - perhaps even starring in a Western. The resulting scenes exploit some lesser-known difficulties that beset the early days of film-making.
The Reunion (Cast: 45 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 20 F/M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Composite. Present.
Morris Bedford has only recently left school and already he feels lost and inadequate. If only he could have another try at the lost time ... enter his old school friend, Andy, who is on a Youth Training Scheme, training to be a 'Fairy Godmother'. Andy offers Morris the chance to relive some of his lost opportunities ... especially those involving girls!
Think Tank (Cast: 10 F/M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: A scriptwriters’ room in a television company.
A group of script writers have to come up with a new idea for a science fiction television series. As they throw ideas about the script room becomes the flight deck of a space-ship and the writers the predictable characters. The tension builds as their ship is attacked only to be broken by a 'phone call from the sponsors to say they've lost the 'slot' and what is needed now is a children's programme. They must rethink ... Needs a director with inspiration and a cast with commitment.
The Searchers (Cast: 7F 6M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Composite. Present.
A chance meeting brings about a search to find and reunite members of a childhood 'gang' - a sort of 'Famous Five'. Where are they all now? Will they welcome being sought out? What is the disconcerting news there is to tell about one of their number?
The Witch of Oz (Cast: 18F – some parts could be adapted to M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: In and near a school. Present.
The school play is auditioning - a production of 'The Wizard of Oz'. Hecate O'Sullivan is determined that the part of Dorothy will be hers. Is she really a witch or are the events that follow her not getting the part she wants purely coincidental? Will the show ever go on?
Travellers' Rest (Cast: 15 F/M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: A pub interior.
Hallowe'en and two travellers calling at a remote pub are told a disturbing story. When one of them 'disappears' the locals claim no knowledge of her, indeed their own identities seem changed. Is there any truth in the implied 'devil worship', and the legend surrounding the Old Hall?
Unsung (Cast: 26 Characters - doubling possible. Original cast 6F 8M)
(Previously published by Macmillan in 'Drama 2' edited by John L. Foster)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Various. Present.
'Barry Wakefield' never wanted to be an engine driver, or a spaceman, or a footballer - he always wanted to be a 'hero'. But parents, schoolteachers, and careers officers just don't understand ... until one day, as a soldier...
Up School (Cast: 21F 4M)
(Previously published by Macmillan in `Drama 1' edited by John L. Foster)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: A Girls’ School. 1930s.
A pastiche of the 'Angela Brazil' - type girls' school story, in which St. Javelin's Girls School is infiltrated by a group of four boys, intent on getting the school a bad name and having it closed - their plans backfire outrageously.
Upset at Pickle Fork (Cast: 37 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 20F 7M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Composite – Western style.
Spoof 'Western' in the best 'B' movie tradition. All the usual happenings - gunfights, Indians, saloon girls, gold-prospectors, good guys, bad guys, drunken doctors, corrupt sheriffs, girls with hearts of gold.
Victor (Cast: 39 Characters - doubling possible.Original cast 12F 6M)
(Previously published by Macmillan in 'Drama 3' edited by John L. Foster)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Various locations in a small town. Present.
Victor has always had an invisible friend, Sam - he's his twin brother, he claims. It's quite charming when he's little, but as he grows up and the belief persists it's little wonder that his parents, teachers, and others, begin to become a little alarmed at Victor's insistence on Sam's presence.
Victoria (Cast: 88 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 20F 12M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: Composite – Victorian Music Hall.
A documentary of the reign of Queen Victoria. Colourful characters, sketches and songs of many of the events in her illustrious reign.
You Ain’t Heard Nothing Yet – with music (Cast: 22 characters – doubling possible. Original cast 11F 9M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Setting: The American film industry. 1920s.
The advent of 'sound' on the silent movie industry. Owing much in essence to "Singing in the Rain", the play contains all the problems of the development of talking pictures ... as it affects a particularly unsuccessful film-maker and his galaxy of 'stars'.
Our Marie (Cast: 70 characters – doubling/trebling possible. Original cast 20F 6M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Composite – Music Hall.
The story of the rise to stardom of the Music Hall favourite Marie Lloyd and the main events in her colourful, though regrettably short life. Several of her songs are included.
Mr. Sidney
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
Settings: Composite.
Based on the story of the Duke of Windsor as observed by his Bahamian valet, Sidney Johnson.
Percy Parker's Flying Bathtub by Andrew Holdsworth and David Foxton
(Published by Scholastic Ltd: http://www.percyparker.com/flyingbathtub/ Contact: andrewjholdsworth@hotmail.com)
A composite set of various locations.
Described by the publishers, 'SCHOLASTIC', as 'Musical Adventures Across the Primary Curriculum'. These are short historical plays with music.
They can be performed individually or linked together into a full-length show. They are ideal also for classroom work, and the text and music can be used separately.
Music and Effects are provided on CD-ROMs, sheet music is also provided and illustrated suggestions for settings and costumes together with production notes. An ideal school resource pack.
Be Serious (Cast: 2F 3M + 12 minor characters – doubling possible)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
A teacher's involvement with a girl pupil leads to tragic results.
Night Cap (Cast: 1F 1M)
(Purchase and performing rights contact: judith.wood5@btinternet.com)
A radio play exploring the relationship of a man and wife returning home and conversing with each other as they move from room to room.