The Babes in the Wood

Available from the author.

Playing time: fifteen to twenty minutes, depending on production, songs used etc. 

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Two helpless children and their Nurse try to find their way through Sherwood Forest. They encounter the wicked Sherif, Robin Hood, Maid Marian, and, finally, King Richard himself. But the two “Babes” turn out not to be quite as helpless as expected, especially when they start to use their catapults. 

Seven Characters: Ben, Lily, Nurse, Sheriff, Robin, Marian, King. 

Playing time: about 20 minutes (depending on production, use of additional songs etc) 

Script Extract:

Sheriff: (coming forward to Nurse) What brings you here, my charming stranger? 

Take care. This wood is full of danger. 

Nurse: We're not afraid. Good sir, Good Day. 

Could you possibly show us the way? 

We've travelled for hours, more's the pity. 

We're wondering, where is Nottingham City? 

Sheriff: Straight on, my dear, a mile or so. 

And do be careful how you go. 

There are robbers in this wood. 

Have you heard of – (dramatic pause) - Robin Hood? 

Ben: Oh no! 

Lily: Oh no! 

Ben: Not Robin Hood! 

Nurse: A rogue, I fear, who's up to no good! 

Sheriff: Come, follow me. I'll take you there. 

You will be safe under my care. 

(Aside) I think these children are my wards. 

And they are carrying jewels in hoards. 

Things are turning out just fine. 

These jewels will soon be mine, all mine! 

My heart bleeds for these little tots. 

They're going to be tied up in Notts. (He laughs horribly) 

Ben: I do not trust this nasty man. 

Lily: We'll have to kill him if we can. 

Ben: He's a wicked scheming adult. 

Lily: Where did I put my catapult?