Audience participation, resolution of a family conflict, and an ecological touch are added bonuses to this fast-moving musical version which includes strong and distinct personalities for each member of the cast. Like the original, this script condemns prejudice and proclaims that "Real beauty comes from within." The play illustrates the cruelty that many children (and many adults, too) exhibit when they put down, belittle, and shun people who are different. A careless, uncaring Hunter, who wants to turn Mother Goose into Goose Soup, asks the children (even going into the audience) for help. He is thwarted by the concerned, knowledgable Game Warden, who turns out to be the brother he dislikes. By curtain time family quarrels are patched up and everyone accepts the fact that man and nature must work together for mutual survival.

"This enchanting musical, based on the classic tale by Hans Christian Andersen, will entertain children of all ages," reported the Fort Bend Star.

When the Fort Bend Community Theater decided to add a dramatization to their Children's Theatre repertory, they couldn't find a good one, so Karen Letts wrote this one. The end of the play brings warmth, smiles—and perhaps a tear.

Although the music and songs add to the charm of the play, it may be presented without music. Because of the small cast and simple set, the play is ideal for touring.

One act; Set, rural "duck farm"; Anytime.

See also: The Ugly Duckling (1-Act), Plays with Animal Characters, Audience-Participation Plays and Fairytales, Folktales, and Fables