The Pied Piper of Possum Kingdom
It's the Fourth of July, 1963 and rats have taken over the state park at Possum Kingdom Lake. Who can get rid of these pests that act more like gangsters than rats? It seems no one can, not the surfing dude Robbie Kahuna, the wacky lake vendors, the know-it-all park ranger, or even any of the visiting boaters, swimmers and fishermen. Things change when a mysterious stranger shows up and claims that for a fee he will get the rats to follow him far into the Palo Pinto Mountains. To save the holiday festivities the park ranger agrees but in the end refuses to pay the piper. That's when the lake visitors -- and possums! -- discover they too are drawn into the mountains by the piper's magical tune. Inspired by Robert Browning's poem, this musical comedy adaptation features a lively score with ten original songs such as the jazzy “Possum Kingdom Cool Cats,” the Beach Boys-style surf song, “Chocka, Chocka Too,” and the rousing patriotic song, “Happy Birthday, USA.” The cast is flexible and the single set is easy. This show delights with song, dance and plenty of laughter. Ideal for children’s theatre or for middle school and junior high performers.
Productions
Behind The Scenes
Kevin Cook and Denis Kashoid Talk About
THE PIED PIPER OF POSSUM KINGDOM
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO ADAPT/MUSICALIZE THIS STORY?
We wanted to write a musical about the importance of keeping a promise. The Pied Piper came to mind, but we didn't want to write another adaptation of the 1284 story. So, we decided to set it in 1963 because this decade's music captured the energy of the script that we imagined.
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE PART OR LINE IN THE MUSICAL?
OR FAVORITE SONG?
The song “Chocka, Chocka Too” is our favorite part. It's a full company song in the style of the Beach Boys led by the surfer character, Robbie Kahuna. It's just fun. One of those songs that makes the audience smile.
WHAT IS IT LIKE COLLABORATING WITH EACH OTHER?
Occasionally, you meet that creative person that you just connect with. After many projects together, this still holds true for us.
DO YOU HAVE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO ADD?
Possum Kingdom Lake is a real place not far from Fort Worth, Texas where locals go for skiing, swimming, boating, fishing, cliff jumping and diving. This lake was instrumental in the creation of this musical adaptation of The Pied Piper. Thank you Possum Kingdom Lake!