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Written as an alternative to a nativity
for a multicultural school but suitable
for any time of year,
'A Present For The Prince' explores the
idea that riches and expensive material
things do not necessarily bring happiness.
"What on
earth can you give to a prince who is bored,
When you ask what he wants, you are simply
ignored."
That is the problem facing the Court -
how can they possibly give a Christmas present
to somebody who has everything and wants
for nothing. The Court Scientist suggests
that perhaps a computer would be a good
idea. Marvellous. The Prince though is less
than enthusiastic when he is told that it
is excellent for draughting, planning and
calculating, but not so good at writing
stories and composing songs without some
considerable effort and input. Sadly the
Scientist takes it away.
They try beautiful paintings and hand-crafted
toys - all to no avail. The Courtiers are
by now exhausted from their endeavours,
so they ask the Court Musicans to play something
to cheer them up, hoping it will do the
same for he Prince, which of course it doesn't.
The Chancellor suddenly has a bright idea,
"We'll get the Court Magician to weave
us a spell". The Magician duly arrives
and spends all night working out the most
appropriate spell for the Court's predicament.
In the morning they find on the floor "a
strange looking box with a bright golden
key". everybody is very cautious in
case the magic released in opening the box
causes them all to disappear. The Prince
though is intrigued and, opening the box
is annoyed that it contains nothing more
than a crimson rose.
The Chancellor tries to convince him that
the rose is a perfect gift as ...
"This rose
awakes a precious thought
That worthwhile gifts need not be bought.
In our wonderful world - so much to see
So many treasures, many are free.
At last they all
felt that this sad little boy
Had found at last an appropriate toy.
This rose would remind him of all he could
see,
Of all he could share,
With you and with me,
The good things in life that are totally
free.
This lovely musical finishes with the song
'Only a Humble Flower', which reminds us
that there is much happiness to be found
in simple things.
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