This, Jerome McDonough's first play for children, has humor, suspense, and an important Christmas lesson. A play easily performed for, or even by, children, this is the tale of Emmy, Santa's tiniest and most accident-prone elf. Between Emmy's natural clumsiness and mischievousness, Santa can find no spot for her in his organization except caring for Ralph, a reindeer forced unwillingly into retirement. The bitter pair wreak a Jekyll-and-Hyde revenge on Santa, but their plans backfire.

Sets and props are reduced to a stool and a storybook. The ensemble of 12 or more performers plus Santa Claus mime or, more frequently, become all other set and prop pieces. Designed for a quick and easy rehearsal schedule, only the Narrator has lines—and even these may be read if rehearsal time is very short.

The original production was cheered by children from three years of age through sixth grade in its two-day, seven-location tour. And the teachers seemed to love it as much as the kids did.

If enchantment and ease of production are on your Christmas shopping list, IT'S SAD, SO SAD WHEN AN ELF GOES BAD is the best present you can offer your audience.

One act. Fun for all groups, and a good workout in mime.

"Our annual Christmas play is back again with the same good fun and jolly Christmas spirit that has served us well the past several years. A delightful show for children of all ages."—Austin, Texas, Community College.

Other McDonough Christmas plays: Carol* A Christmas, A Christmas Carol (1-act), The Nearest Star, Not Even A. Mouse, O Little Town, Posadas (bilingual), Señor Scrooge (bilingual)