This classic fairy tale now comes with a new twist. Judy Culp and Susan Johns have written the play in such a way that it is available in three formats: English, Spanish, and Spanish with English narration. Susan Johns utilizes the plays in her classroom as a way to develop fluency in Spanish. Finding an entertaining way to promote the verbal use of language is a challenge that all language teachers face. Performances for schoolmates and parents allow the students to exhibit their mastery of Spanish at an elementary level while developing confidence in their speaking skills. Bilingual versions of well-known tales are fun for all audiences, whether they know both languages or just one.

The two versions in this script may be presented back to back or separately. If back to back, which one should be done first? If English is the main language of a majority of the audience, do that version first. If Spanish is the main language, do that one first. Needless to say, these plays are valuable learning tools for students—or audiences—trying to learn the other language. Foreign language departments of schools and colleges can profitably stage them to help their students learn the foreign language. The plays are easy to do; trained actors are not necessary.

Other bilingual plays: Tres Cerditos, Gemelarela, Señor Scrooge, El Sueño Navideño, La Bella Durmiente, Posadas

See also: Beanstalk!