Description

This version of Saint George and the Dragon is a composite version of the traditional Christmas mummers’ plays woven from bits of old texts, folk legends, medieval Christmas plays and scenes from Edmund Spenser’s Fairie Queene. There is a version of The Play of St. George in Thomas Hardy’s The Return of the Native.

Here is a charming retelling of the great mummers’ plays, folk plays of the Middle Ages. It is a perfect choice for holiday pageantry and drama in Christmas season productions that herald the passing of a year passed and a new beginning. Travel back in time to the Christmas celebrations in the Middle Ages, which began with a parade of knights, princesses, a king, a queen and, of course, a dragon. There were also miraculous medical practitioners who could cure all ailments. In traditional rhymed dialogue, Father (or Mother) Christmas presides over exaggerated sword and shield battles, court dances and St. George’s heroic and romantic escapades. Production notes are available in the script containing details on costumes, music, set and props. The songs are set to well-known secular Christmas carols, with plenty of fanfare and exuberance. Set: Any found space will suffice as a set. Properties may be simple, as if handcrafted by peasants, using Holly and ivy plants for decorative pieces. Decorated casual modern costumes or elaborate period costumes, if desired. Approximate running time: 40 minutes.