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Joybox, the Drama - May 6, 2007
from "Happy Tales, Fables and Plays", by Gordon C. Bennett, John Knox Press, © 1975
Adapted for performance and directed by Howard Clark
Posted May 16, 2007

On Sunday, May 6, 2007, a number of Summerlea folks of all ages presented the drama "Joybox" for the pleasure of the congregation. Cast in Alphabetical order Michèle Bitauld - woman Marion Golden - townsfolk Mary Guynan - Narrator 1 Cassandra McKenzie - Prime Minister Michelle McKenzie - Priest Susan McKenzie - Narrator 2 Kevin McKenzie - Delivery guy Erin Overbury - Counsellor John Parmater - townsfolk Jane Percy - townsfolk David Pryce - Policeman Caroline Rodd - townsfolk Elizabeth Rodd - townsfolk Justin Roy - King Alayna Roy - Narrator 3 Janet Smart - Mayor Musicians Undeg Edwards - Piano Leslie Field - Guitar Keith Field - Bongos Backstage/props/costumes - Kim Blatherwick & Richard Roy Following are a few photos of the proceedings (pickable to see a larger version).

The Overture, with the whole cast.

Narrator 1 tells us that the King is perplexed, because one village in his kingdom is full of doom, gloom and despair. How can he help them be happy? His Prime Ministe and Counsellor have some not-too-helpful suggestions.

The King ponders the problem.

The King has had an idea. A box marked "Joy" arrives in the village. Everyone is suspicious - why would the King send them a gift?

After some pleading and even begging, Madame Mayor allows the box to be opened. A bunch of mirrors allow everyone to see themselves, with considerable pleasure.

But the priest says "Enough of this frivolity" - so back in the box go the mirrors.

The villagers return to their gloomy life, but the King has another idea. A box of dancing dolls arrives, and the scenario repeats itself.

Once again the villagers are gloomy, but the King is not to be defeated Another box arrives, cajoling and begging take place, but Madame Mayor is adamant,

until a sound comes from the box. Now Madame Mayor is forced to allow it to be opened and the policeman brings out a small baby.

Everyone, including Madame Mayor, is entranced by the baby. Now gloom and doom are replaced by happiness and joy - the King has succeeded!

Narrator 2 and the musicians - Leslie Field on guitar, Keith Field on bongos and Undeg Edwards on piano.

Our thanks to all those who spent many Saturdays rehearsing to bring us this joyful story.

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