1. The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales
Based on the award-winning book by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith, this play takes familiar fairy tales and turns them on their heads. With absurd characters and silly situations, The Stinky Cheese Man offers a humorous twist on classic stories like Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood. Its playful narrative and quirky humor make it a favorite among children and adults alike.
Highlights:
- Engaging storytelling style
- Interactive elements that engage the audience
- Memorable characters with ridiculous traits
2. Shrek the Musical
Based on the beloved DreamWorks film, Shrek the Musical brings the story of an ogre and his quest to save Princess Fiona to the stage. With vibrant musical numbers and a humorous take on fairy-tale conventions, this production pokes fun at traditional tales while delivering a heartwarming message about acceptance and love.
Why It’s Funny:
- Witty dialogue and clever puns
- Comedic relationships between characters like Donkey and Shrek
- Surprising twists on fairy-tale tropes
3. Into the Woods
Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods weaves together multiple fairy tales, including Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Little Red Riding Hood. This musical explores the consequences of wishes and dreams, all while interspersing humor throughout the story. The blend of dark themes with light-hearted comedy makes this a fascinating and funny production.
Comedy Aspects:
- Humorous character interactions
- Funny songs that highlight character flaws
- Unexpected outcomes of fairy-tale wishes
4. The Princess and the Pea
This whimsical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s tale brings laughter and charm to the story of a princess who proves her royal lineage by feeling a pea under twenty mattresses. The play emphasizes the absurdity of aristocratic traditions and showcases a hilarious cast of characters, including bumbling suitors and a comically overprotective queen.
Notable Features:
- Physical comedy and slapstick moments
- Over-the-top characters that evoke laughter
- Charming songs that enhance the story
5. The True Story of the Three Little Pigs
This play, based on the book by Jon Scieszka, retells the classic tale from the perspective of the Big Bad Wolf. With a humorous twist, the wolf claims innocence and provides his side of the story, leading to a comedic courtroom showdown. This clever adaptation invites audiences to reconsider preconceived notions about villains.
Key Elements of Humor:
- Satirical take on the classic narrative
- Witty repartee between characters
- Engaging audience with moral dilemmas
6. Cinderella: The Remake
This modern twist on the traditional Cinderella story incorporates contemporary humor and relatable scenarios. The play showcases Cinderella as a strong, independent character who navigates the absurdities of modern life while still dealing with her fairy godmother and the infamous stepsisters.
Why It Stands Out:
- Relatable humor for today’s audiences
- Strong character development
- Funny takes on classic elements like glass slippers
7. Jack and the Beanstalk: A Comedic Adventure
This adaptation of Jack and the Beanstalk focuses on the whimsical and humorous aspects of the tale. With a focus on Jack's clumsiness and the giant's over-the-top personality, the play creates laugh-out-loud moments that keep the audience engaged.
Humor Highlights:
- Comedic misunderstandings between Jack and the giant
- Physical comedy with exaggerated movements
- Funny songs that capture the essence of the characters
8. Once Upon a Mattress
A musical retelling of The Princess and the Pea, Once Upon a Mattress focuses on the often comedic trials of Princess Winnifred as she tries to win the heart of Prince Dauntless. The play is filled with catchy songs and hilarious antics, making it a delightful experience.
Why It’s Hilarious:
- Witty lyrics and clever wordplay
- Funny character dynamics and interactions
- Over-the-top situations that lead to laughable outcomes
9. The Frog Prince
This humorous adaptation of The Frog Prince emphasizes the comedic elements of transformation and the challenges of royal life. With a focus on the relationship between the princess and the frog, the play blends humor and romance seamlessly.
Comedic Highlights:
- Funny misunderstandings between the characters
- Witty dialogue that engages the audience
- Lighthearted approach to traditional themes
10. Rapunzel: A Very Hairy Tale
This playful retelling of Rapunzel centers around the princess's long hair and the chaos it brings. The comedic elements stem from the interactions between Rapunzel, her prince, and the witch, creating a delightful mix of humor and fairy-tale magic.
Key Funny Aspects:
- Physical comedy involving Rapunzel's hair
- Comedic timing between characters
- Catchy musical numbers that enhance humor
11. Goldilocks and the Three Bears: The Musical
This musical adaptation of Goldilocks and the Three Bears adds a humorous twist to the tale. With catchy songs and lively choreography, the story unfolds in a way that is both entertaining and lighthearted, showcasing the chaos that ensues when Goldilocks enters the bears' home.
Why It’s Engaging:
- Fun musical numbers that invite audience participation
- Comedic elements that appeal to children
- Relatable themes of curiosity and consequence
12. The Ugly Duckling
While it carries a moral message about self-acceptance, The Ugly Duckling is also filled with comedic moments. The play uses humor to address themes of beauty and belonging, making it not only funny but also thought-provoking.
Humor Throughout:
- Quirky character interactions
- Funny situations that arise from misunderstandings
- Uplifting and humorous songs that resonate with audiences
Conclusion
These twelve fabulously funny fairy tale plays offer a delightful blend of humor and storytelling. They not only entertain but also provoke thought about the nature of fairy tales and the lessons they impart. From silly adaptations of beloved classics to modern retellings that resonate with contemporary audiences, these plays showcase the versatility and enduring appeal of fairy tales. Whether you are a performer, an educator, or simply someone looking for a good laugh, these plays are sure to enchant and amuse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are '12 fabulously funny fairy tale plays' about?
They are a collection of comedic adaptations of classic fairy tales, reimagined with humor and wit for theatrical performance.
Who are the target audiences for these fairy tale plays?
These plays are designed for children and family audiences, making them suitable for schools, community theaters, and family-friendly events.
Can these plays be performed by amateur theater groups?
Yes, the plays are typically written to be accessible for amateur groups, with simple staging and a focus on comedic delivery.
What themes are explored in these fairy tale plays?
Common themes include friendship, bravery, and the importance of laughter, often with a twist on traditional fairy tale morals.
How do these plays differ from traditional fairy tales?
They incorporate modern humor, playful dialogue, and sometimes unexpected plot twists that challenge the original narratives.
Are there any notable characters featured in these plays?
Yes, beloved characters like Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, and the Big Bad Wolf are often portrayed in humorous and unconventional ways.
Where can I find scripts for these fairy tale plays?
Scripts can typically be found through theater publishers, online script databases, or educational resources focused on children's theater.
