Baboushka

A tale from Russia, told in rhyme

Published by Lazy Bees Scripts

Playing-time: ten to fifteen minutes - very dependent on the production, as use of two carols is suggested.

 A play for Christmas. In olden days Baboushka was a Father Christmas figure, believed to have started the custom of giving presents to children at Christmas.

Baboushka is a house-proud lady and an accomplished cook. When news comes of a great procession coming through town, she is too busy cooking to go and see it. But when the Three Wise Men knock on her door to ask for a room for the night, she is delighted to welcome them. Next morning the Wise Men are off on their search for the Infant King. They ask Baboushka to come with them but again she is too busy cleaning. When she is finally ready to go, the Wise Men are a long way off and out of sight. She sets out after them, but never finds them. And so, every Christmas, she searches again and, whenever she sees a child, she gives that child a present.

Traditional carols (We Three Kings and Away In A Manger) are suggested for use at certain points.

This script has been performed in the United States and Canada as well as in several locations in the United Kingdom.

Artwork by Simon Bond

Characters:

Narrator

Baboushka

Friend 

Another Friend

Caspar

Melchior

Balthasar

Passer-by

Another Passer-by

Attendants, Singers (optional)

Script extract:

Baboushka:  Come in! Have you travelled far?

Melchior:  Indeed. We couldn't feel much wearier.

Baboushka:  I'm not surprised. You're in Siberia.

Melchior:  And, after travelling this long way,

We're hoping to find a place to stay.

Balthasar:  Somewhere simple that's bright and clean -

And this is the cleanest place we've seen.

Caspar:  We are wise men. There's no-one wiser.

And your house is recommended by Tripadvisor.