The Christmas Stranger
Drama
It's So Christmas-See!
A Collection of Resources for Thanksgiving and Christmas
Object:
Summary
Jack Hanson is a wealthy business owner, husband, and father, in that order. He is consumed by work and making money. For reasons no one knows, he hates Christmas. His wife and children have no tangible needs, but they lack joy and a real relationship with Jack. They don't celebrate Christmas. Things change, though, when Jack hires a "happy go lucky" stranger to fix some things around the house. This "Christmas Stranger" brings joy and laughter to the Hanson home. Jack's wife and children begin to understand Christmas. Then, the four of them attempt an even greater challenge -- to break through Jack's hard shell. That's when Jack remembers what it all means from "The Christmas Stranger."
Characters
Roy Marsh -- minister of the church in Oak Hills
Kate Marsh -- Roy's wife and director of the children's choir
Jack Hanson -- wealthy businessman in his late thirties to early forties
Sara James -- twelve-year-old who is Ashley Hanson's best friend
Tom Kingsman -- "handyman" who Jack hires to fix things around the house
Young Jack Hanson -- Jack as a ten-year-old (Scene 2)
Young Molly Hanson -- Jack's eight-year-old sister (Scene 2)
Grace Hanson -- Jack's mother
Robert Hanson -- Jack's father
Mrs. Firkins -- secretary at Hanson's Furniture
Mr. Wentworth -- wealthy businessman who deals with Jack
Annie Hanson -- Jack's wife
Taylor Hanson -- nine-year-old daughter of Jack and Annie
Ashley Hanson -- thirteen-year-old daughter of Jack and Annie
Miss Winifred Long -- older lady in town who has few friends
Maudie Bellamy -- town gossip who knows all the news and is eager to share
Claire Bellamy -- Maudie's sister, also a town gossip
Ed Crandle -- owner and operator of Crandle's General Store
Molly -- Jack's sister (Scene 11)
Setting
The story takes place in the town of Oak Hills in the early- to mid-1900s. Oak Hills is a typical small American town where everyone knows everyone else. The main industry in Oak Hills is Hanson Furniture, where some of the finest pieces of furniture are crafted. People from all over long for a Hanson piece of furniture.
Scene 1 -- town square
Scene 2 -- small wooden house in the plains of Kansas
Scene 3 -- office of Hanson's Furniture Store
Scene 4 -- outside the Hanson home
Scene 5 -- living room of the Hanson home
Scene 6 -- in front of Miss Long's home
Scene 7 -- living room of the Hanson home
Scene 8 -- Crandle's General Store
Scene 9 -- living room of the Hanson home
Scene 10 -- street in Oak Hills
Scene 11 -- Oak Hills church
Note: If the stage can be divided into three sections, then stage left could be the office of Hanson Furniture, Crandle's General Store, and the street in Oak Hills; center stage could be the town square and the living room of the Hanson home; and stage right could be the small wooden house in Kansas, the outside of the Hanson home, and in front of Miss Long's house. Center stage can also serve as the church.
Props
Christmas tree
Christmas ornaments
Christmas stockings
Candy canes
Empty bottle
Table
Plate of food
Drinking glass
Office furniture
Briefcase
Piece of paper (signifying a contract)
Pen
Purse
Stryfoam balls (used as snowballs)
Cane
Chairs
Mugs
Couch
Simulated fireplace
Groceries
Grocery bag
Christmas decorations
Plate of cookies
Church furniture
Bible
Shelves
Money -- coins only
Costumes
Clothing should be appropriate for the early- to mid-1900s. Tom Kingsman wears overalls. Grace Hanson is dressed in tattered clothing, with a scarf in her hair and an apron on. Miss Winifred Long is a classy dresser and the Bellamy sisters are flamboyant in their dress.
Running Time
Approximately sixty minutes
Scene 1
(As the lights come up, people are in the town square of Oak Hills. A crowd is milling. Some are shopping and some are talking.)
Roy: Kate, are we ready for the children's program tomorrow night?
Kate: I think we are. Our last practice is this afternoon.
Roy: Great. Oh look, there's Jack Hanson. I want to invite him to church tomorrow night.
Kate: (frowns) He's such a grump. I don't think he'll come.
Roy: (smiles) Come on, Kate. You never know what might happen. (approaches Jack, who is fighting his way through the busy town square) Good day, Jack. How are you?
Jack: Not good at all, pastor. Who is responsible for this mob? I can't even get to my office.
Roy: Relax, Jack. It's almost Christmas. Folks are getting some last minute shopping done and all sorts of things.
Jack: It's a waste of time in my book, preacher. Christmas is nothing.
Roy: (smiles) Jack, Jack, Jack. Grumpy on the outside, but soft and gooey on the inside (pats Jack on the stomach) just like a marshmallow toasted over a fire. See you later, Jack, and Merry Christmas!
Jack: Hmmph! I'll show him who's soft ... (turns to leave, but runs into Sara) Hey! Watch where you're going! Don't I know you?
Sara: Hi, Mr. Hanson. I'm Sara. You know, Ashley's friend.
Jack: Oh yes, well move aside, child. I have work to do.
Sara: I'm sorry, Mr. Hanson. I just wanted to give you this. (hands Jack a candy cane) Mrs. Marsh gave them to us. I thought you might like to have it. Merry Christmas.
Jack: (stares at the candy cane, getting more upset and more angry; then grabs it and throws it to the ground) I don't want it! Now, get away. I have to go! (hurries off)
(Tom Kingsman has walked up behind Sara and observed this outburst. Sara turns to him, looking bewildered and sad.)
Sara: What, what did I do wrong?
Tom: Sara, you didn't do anything wrong. Ol' Jack there just has some bad memories, that's all. You did just fine.
Scene 2
(The light comes up in a small, wooden house somewhere in the plains of Kansas. Two children are huddled by the window, eagerly looking out. A small, poorly decorated Christmas tree stands in the corner. There are no presents under the tree. Empty stockings hang on the mantle. As the lights come up, Christmas carolers can be heard singing. The children are fascinated and point as the songs continue.)
Young Jack: Molly, look! Can you see them?
Young Molly: Yeah, Jack. Christmas makes me feel so wonderful. Do you think he'll come this time? He didn't last year.
Young Jack: I know, Molly. But he will this year, he's just gotta. Look! They're leaving.
Both: Bye! Bye! Thanks!
(The children are waving good-bye to the carolers as their mother enters. She is dressed in tattered but clean clothes. Her hair is tied back with a scarf. She enters wearing an apron. In the apron pocket are two candy canes that no one can see, yet.)
Grace: Wasn't that just marvelous children? (walks over and puts her arms around her children at the window)
Young Jack: Mom? You heard them, too?
Young Molly: I really love Christmas, don't you, Mom?
Grace: It is a very special time of year ...
Young Molly: (looks at Grace and interrupts) Do you think Santa will bring us any presents this year? He hasn't for a long time.
Grace: (looks out the window, with a pained expression) I hope so, dear. But you know that's not really what's important about Christmas, don't you?
Young Jack: We know, Mom. Christmas is about Jesus being born. That's why it's so special. God gave us a wonderful gift and that's why we give to others ...
Young Molly: (interrupts) And that's why Santa gives, too. I just know he'll come.
(The three of them hug by the window. The moment of quiet reverence and love is broken by the loud crash of a door.)
Robert: (enters loudly and speaks loudly; has been drinking and enters carrying an empty bottle) Well, Merry Christmas! And how is my family?
Young Molly: (runs and hugs Robert) Daddy, did you see them? They were here and I know he'll come, too. I just know it.
Robert: What are you talking about, child? I ain't seen nobody.
Young Jack: The Christmas carolers, Dad. That's what she means. Didn't you see them?
Robert: I ain't seen nobody ...
(Jack walks over and pulls Molly away. They stand by the little tree. Grace approaches Robert who has clumsily sat at the table. She has a plate of food and a drink.)
Grace: Robert, you must be hungry. Here, eat. I saved it for you.
(She sets the plate down. Robert begins to eat and drink without looking up.)
Grace: Uh, Robert, did you pick up the (looks over to her children who are looking at the few tree ornaments) presents?
Robert: (suddenly looks up, clearly angry) Presents? What presents? There ain't no presents this year and there ain't never gonna be any.
Grace: Robert, please. The children ...
Robert: (cuts her off and goes to where the children are standing) It's time you kids learned what this Christmas stuff really is. (The children back away from the tree, frightened.) It is nothing. That's it -- nothing. There ain't no presents. There ain't no Santa Claus and there ain't no tree (grabs the little tree and throws it to the floor; begins to leave, but stops at the door and pulls a few coins from his pocket) Oh yeah. Here's the change ... see if you can buy any presents with that. (leaves, throwing the coins on the floor)
(Grace stands dumbfounded. Molly is crying and Jack holds her, trying to comfort her.)
Grace: (walks over to her children and has them sit next to her on the floor) Your daddy didn't mean that. Don't you believe it, not a word.
Young Molly: You mean Christmas is not nothing? What about gifts?
Grace: (sighs and reluctantly pulls two candy canes from her pocket) Well, look what I found. I guess Santa must have left these for you two here in my pocket. And don't forget, Christmas is really about Jesus, okay? I've got to clean up ...
(Jack and Molly take the candy canes and stare at them. Grace gets up quickly and starts putting the house back together. Molly and Jack talk quietly.)
Young Molly: Jackie, why is it like this? How come we never get a real Christmas? All we ever get are these stupid candy canes.
Young Jack: (puts his arm around his little sister) Don't cry, Molly. It won't always be like this ...
Young Molly: (interrupts) Yes it will, Jack. It was like this last year and the year before. I think Daddy's right. For us, Christmas is nothing. (angrily throws her candy cane down and runs offstage)
(Young Jack is now alone on the stage. A single light illumines where he sits.)
Young Jack: (talks quietly to himself) Molly's right. She's right. Christmas is nothing and I hate it. And I hate these stupid candy canes. (breaks them in anger as the lights go to black)
Scene 3
(It is now about 25 years later in the town of Oak Hills. Lights come up in the office of Hanson Furniture. Jack is sitting at his desk. He is obviously cold. His secretary, Mrs. Firkins, enters.)
Mrs. Firkins: Mr. Hanson, a Mr. Wentworth is here to see you regarding an order for his stores. My, it sure is cold in here. The pipes aren't working yet?
Jack: Uh, no, Mrs. Firkins, they are not. Call for a handyman, will you? Thank you, Mrs. Firkins. Send in Mr. Wentworth. And do me a favor, will you? Close the curtains. That bunch on the square are irritating me.
Mrs. Firkins: Yes, sir. (turns to leave, pauses at the window wondering how he could call the festivities "irritating"; closes the curtains and begins to leave, but pauses) Oh, and sir, your wife sent a message that she will be stopping by soon. There is some problem at home.
Jack: Oh, very well. Thank you, Mrs. Firkins. Now, if you'll show Mr. Wentworth in.
(Mrs. Firkins leaves and Jack resumes working at his desk waiting for Mr. Wentworth. Mr. Wentworth enters, carrying his briefcase.)
Jack: Ah, Mr. Wentworth, good day to you. Have a seat, won't you? (Mr. Wentworth sits) It's a little chilly in here, but we'll soon have the heat back on. Can I get you anything?
Mr. Wentworth: (takes contract from his briefcase) Thank you, but no. Mr. Hanson, I've come today to finalize our contract. You'll see the total price we agreed upon at the bottom, for which you have agreed to provide tables, desks, and chairs to all my stores in the state, with the first shipment arriving in two weeks. Is everything in order?
Jack: (smiles) Oh, yes sir. We'll have the first shipment to you in two weeks. (both sign the contract) It has been a pleasure to do business with you.
Mr. Wentworth: (stands) It has been a pleasure working with you. (turns to leave, but stops and speaks) You know, Mr. Hanson, this deal will bring us both a lot of money, and that's good at Christmas, yes?
Jack: (smiles again) Oh yes. I've thought of that. Good day, Mr. Wentworth!
(Mr. Wentworth leaves as Jack's wife, Annie, enters.)
Annie: Jack, I'm sorry to bother you here, but we have a slight problem at home.
Jack: (looks concerned) We do? What is it?
Annie: Well, you know that swimming pool you've always wanted?
Jack: (puzzled) Yes?
Annie: We've got it.
Jack: We do?
Annie: We do -- in the bathroom.
Jack: What? What happened?
Annie: The pipes burst and water was everywhere. (starts to cry) It looked like a fountain. It was just water, gushing everywhere ...
Jack: Okay. It will be fine. (mutters) I don't have time to fix it now with this new order. I'll just have to find someone else to do it. (Tom Kingsman enters, whistling, with his hands in his pockets, just looking around) Hey, buddy. What are you doing?
Tom: Nothin'. Just lookin' around.
Jack: What do you mean, "just looking around"? Who sent you? What is your business here?
Tom: Business? Oh yeah. I got business, all right.
Jack: Well?
Tom: Well what?
Jack: What's your business?
Tom: Oh, that. I fix things.
Jack: That's great. Just come right over here. These pipes haven't worked all day. Cold as ice in here. Get these fixed and see the lady ... Hey, I know. Are you good at fixing things?
Tom: (smiles) One of the best.
Jack: Good, good. (pats Tom on the back) When you finish, see my wife here for our address. I have some work for you to do there. (to Annie) See? Everything's gonna be just great. (leaves) Now, to make sure that order gets started....
(Annie stands, looking after Jack. Tom stands off to the side, smiling.)
Annie: Uh, Mr. Uh ...
Tom: Kingsman, ma'am. Tom Kingsman.
Annie: Mr. Kingsman, here is our address.
Tom: Annie, what can I do for you?
Annie: Do for me? Oh, you mean what's the problem? It's the plumbing. Something happened. There's water everywhere. It's a mess.
Tom: I'll be right over. Is there anything else?
Annie: (hesitates) No, I guess that's all. (starts to leave)
Tom: Okay! (smiles) See ya soon. Oh, hold on a minute. I've got something for ya.
(Annie stops and Tom comes over to her.)
Tom: (hands Annie a candy cane) Here. It's almost Christmas. These things, well I like 'em. They remind me of what it's all about.
Annie: Thank you. (puts the candy cane in her purse) See you later, then?
Tom: Sure thing, ma'am.
Scene 4
(The scene shifts to outside the home of Jack and Annie Hanson. It is supposed to be cold and snowy outside. Ashley and Taylor are outside playing. Tom Kingsman approaches.)
Tom: ("forms" a styrofoam snowball and throws it at Taylor who is not looking) Ha! Gotcha!
Taylor: No fair. I wasn't looking. Hey, who are you?
Tom: Oh yeah, I'm sorry. My name is Tom -- Tom Kingsman. I'm here to fix some things in your house.
Ashley: It's about time. We still haven't got all the water out of the bathroom, yet. I'll go get Mother. (leaves)
Tom: So, Taylor, are you excited for Christmas?
Taylor: Nah. Daddy says, "Christmas is nothing" so we don't celebrate or anything. I don't really know very much about it.
Tom: (looks incredulously) You don't know about Christmas? Well, I'm glad we met, 'cause I know all there is to know about Christmas. I'm an expert on reindeer. Santa knows me by name. I know about important stuff, too -- like Bethlehem and a manger. Just ask me and I'll tell you.
Taylor: Well, I've always wondered about angels. Are there really angels?
Tom: You bet there are. They are a big part of Christmas. Hey, have you ever seen one?
Taylor: No.
Tom: Well, I have, and it is grand. Do you want to make an angel, right here in the snow?
Taylor: I don't know how.
Tom: It's easy. I'll show you!
(Tom and Taylor lay in the "snow" and make "snow angels." Tom pantomimes throwing snow on Taylor who does the same to Tom. They are laughing and giggling. Annie and Ashley enter. Annie is laughing, but Ashley looks grim and sober.)
Ashley: What are you doing? Your clothes are soaked and you'll catch pneumonia. Mother, tell this, this Tom what you think.
Annie: (smiles) I think it is a wonderful snow angel, Taylor.
Taylor: Thank you, Mommy. Would you like to make one?
Annie: Uh, I don't ...
Ashley: (interrupts) Don't be ridiculous. Mother would never do that. That is the silliest thing I have ever heard ...
Annie: (interrupts) I don't think I'd mind at all. (Ashley looks aghast, then turns and leaves as Annie begins to make a snow angel.) Will you show me how, Tom?
Tom: Sure. It's like this. (demonstrates and the three of them begin to flap their arms wildly in the snow, then rise)
Annie: I don't know when I've ever had so much fun. Mr. Kingsman, thank you.
Tom: My pleasure, ma'am. (Secretly, he and Taylor have styrofoam snowballs. They prepare to throw them at Annie, who notices them and they drop them.) Well, I guess I'd better get to work. Mr. Hanson is going to want things fixed around here.
Taylor: Oh, Tom, do you have to go? I wanted to talk some more. I have a lot of questions about Christmas.
Tom: I'll tell you what, if it is okay with your mom, then you can help me. Is that okay, Mrs. Hanson?
Annie: I guess so, though I don't know how much help she'll be.
Tom: I think she'll do just fine. Taylor, what have you heard about Christmas?
Taylor: Well ...
(Taylor and Tom exit, talking. Annie follows, smiling. Stage goes dark.)
Scene 5
(The stage lights up with Tom and Taylor in the living room of the Hanson house.)
Tom: Taylor, that job was harder than it looked. I didn't think we'd ever get that pipe fixed. Thanks for your help.
Taylor: Oh, Tom. You know I didn't do anything. Thank you for telling me about Christmas and Jesus. Thanks for this candy cane, too. (pulls it out and puts it in her mouth) I've never had one before. It is delicious!
Ashley: (enters and notices the candy cane) Hey! Where did you get that?
Taylor: None of your business. (Ashley glares at her) But, if you must know, Tom gave it to me. (Tom turns and smiles at Ashley)
Ashley: Mr. Kingsman, I do not think my father would want you to do that. We don't engage in such foolishness.
Tom: Ashley, I know what your father thinks, but what about you? What do you think of Christmas?
(Jack and Annie enter just as Ashley is about to answer the question.)
Jack: Hi, everyone. (all stop talking; Taylor hides the candy cane behind her back) What's going on?
Taylor: Oh, nothing Daddy. Tom and me fixed the pipes!
Jack: That would be Tom and I, dear.
Taylor: No, Daddy, it was Tom and me.
Jack: Taylor, I ...
Annie: (interrupts) You guys did a fantastic job! Tom is a great fixer! (looks over at Tom, smiling)
Jack: Yes, I suppose he is. Well, we must be going. Mr. Wentworth has generously offered to take us to dinner. It will be quite refreshing. Perhaps we can talk some more business. Come along, Annie. We shouldn't be late. (leaves)
Annie: (sighs) I look forward to a lovely evening. Good-bye.
Tom: Have a nice time and Merry Christmas!
Jack: (stops and angrily turns to face Tom) Mr. Kingsman, I would ask you to refrain from using those words around me or my family. We are quite content as we are. We do not need to celebrate such foolishness. You have no right to ...
Annie: (interrupts and tugs on Jack's arm) Jack, we should go. You don't want to be late.
Jack: (calms down) Yes, you're right. Let's go. Mr. Kingsman, I'll be watching you.
Tom: (smiles) I'll be watching you, too, Jack.
(As Jack and Annie leave, Sara enters.)
Sara: Hi, Ashley. I thought I'd come over. I know you don't normally do "Christmas stuff" and all but, well, I wondered if you wanted to go with some of us to Miss Long's house. We're gonna sing to her and see if she'll let us ride our sleds down her hill.
Ashley: Oh, Sara, I don't know. I have a lot of studying to do and ...
Taylor: (interrupts) Oh, Ashley, you can study anytime. Let's go. That is, if I can come, too?
Sara: Sure you can. More is better.
Tom: Good. Then I think I'll come, too. There's nothing I like better than to sing and go sledding with friends.
Taylor: Well, Ashley, what do you say? Will you come?
Sara: Yeah, Ashley, join in.
Ashley: Oh, all right. I'll do it.
Scene 6
(As the lights come up on stage, the children and Tom are in front of Miss Long's house. They will sing and pantomime sledding.)
Sara: Hey, look! It's Pastor Marsh.
Roy: Hi, everyone. Kate and I are glad to see you. Sleds are ready, but first, the concert.
Kate: Is everyone ready? Sing out loud and strong, now. Let's make sure she hears us.
(All loudly sing Christmas carols. Shortly thereafter, Miss Long appears.)
Miss Long: (enters, swinging her cane wildly) What in blue blazes is going on here? Who are you and why are you here?
Taylor: Merry Christmas, Miss Long! We wanted to come by and sing to you, so you could have some, you know, Christmas cheer.
(The children all nod in agreement and chime in with, "Yeah," "Right.")
Roy: Miss Long, we figured you might like a little company so we decided to pay you a visit. We won't stay long ...
Tom: (interrupts) Merry Christmas, Winnie! (hands Miss Long a candy cane) Here have one. I've got plenty.
Miss Long: (takes the candy cane and looks at it as the group prepares to leave) Hey, wait a minute there, sonny. You just got here. What's that over there? Sleds, huh? You were hoping to use my hill to sled down.
Kate: Well, Miss Long. I can't lie to you. That was our hope.
Miss Long: Lie to me! Dearie, you'd better not lie to me. I've been known to cane a few whippersnappers in my day! (swings her cane wildly at them, then calms down) Why yes, I can remember sledding. My papa would take us up to the very top of this hill. We called it "Terrifying Hill." We would climb on the toboggan, the three of us, and then he would push. We would go flying down the hill. (pantomimes sledding, causing the children to laugh) Whatcha' laughin' at, you youngsters? I can still do it, I bet.
Taylor: Will you, Miss Long?
Miss Long: Will I what?
Tom: You know, Winnie. Will you go sledding with us?
(The children and Mr. and Mrs. Marsh encourage her, saying, "Yes," "Go," "Please.")
Miss Long: Well, it has been a long time, but I think I still got it in these old bones. Come on, you urchins. Keep up and don't dawdle.
(The group begins to march together around the stage. As they walk, the Bellamy sisters approach.)
Claire: Maudie, do you see what I see? I can hardly believe my eyes! Is that old Winnie Long out there with those children? What in heaven's name does she think she's doing?
Maudie: Claire, if I hadn't seen her with my own eyes, I wouldn't have believed it. That old bat is gonna break her neck. Someone should tell her to act her age. It just ain't proper, I tell ya.
(The group approaches the Bellamy sisters, with Miss Long in the lead.)
Miss Long: Well, well, well. If it isn't the Tell-All twins. How are you, Claire and Maudie?
Claire: Why, we're just fine, Winnie. But I must say, we are a mite surprised by your choice of activity.
Maudie: What she means is, "What are you thinking of, woman?" You just can't go prancing around in the snow like that.
Miss Long: That's what I like about you, Maudie. You're so sensitive. You know, for a long time, I had forgotten what joy comes from Christmas.
Claire: Well, I never ...
Miss Long: (interrupts) And that's the problem, Claire. Now if you'll excuse us, we have a date with "Terrifying Hill."
(Miss Long leads the group. As they pass by Maudie and Claire, Tom hands them both a candy cane and smiles. The scene closes with the Bellamys leaving on one side of the stage and the group leaving on the other side.)
Scene 7
(The lights come up on the living room in the Hanson house. Tom and Taylor are sitting by the fire, drinking hot chocolate, while Ashley is sitting on the couch.)
Taylor: That was so much fun, Tom. Who would believe that ol' Miss Long could sled like that! She went flying over that bump. She must've been three feet in the air! (pantomimes Miss Long flying through the air; while Ashley sits quietly, listening)
Tom: (laughing) Well, you might say she was soaring with the angels.
Taylor: (giggles) Miss Long is really a nice lady. I don't think anyone has ever wished her a "Merry Christmas" before. She seemed to be surprised.
Tom: It has been a while, that's for sure. Miss Long remembers, though. She knows what it's all about.
Taylor: And thanks to you, Tom, I do, too.
Ashley: (hesitantly) Uh, Tom, Mr. Kingsman. I've been listening to you and Taylor and I watched Miss Long today. I've never seen her like that before. I know it has to be something about this Christmas thing, but I, well, I don't know what it is. Will you tell me?
Tom: Ashley, I would love to. Christmas is about love -- God's love. He sent his Son, Jesus, so that people could go to heaven and be with him forever. It's like the old Christmas song, "Silent Night." Sing it with me, Taylor.
(Tom and Taylor sing "Silent Night." At the conclusion, Tom gives Ashley a candy cane.)
Ashley: Thank you. (looks down at the candy cane in her hand) I feel so foolish. Sara and all my friends were right. Tom, our family has missed so much.
Annie: (enters and looks around, smiling) Hey, what's going on here?
Tom: Oh, nothin' ...
Ashley: (interrupts) It's not nothing, Tom. It's not. Oh, Mom. (runs to her mother and hugs her tightly)
Taylor: (looks at Tom) Thanks for helping my sister. There's one more thing to fix, though ... (pulls him down and whispers in his ear)
Scene 8
(This scene opens in Crandle's General Store. It is Christmas Eve day. Jack is in the store, picking up a few items for dinner that evening.)
Mr. Crandle: (comes over to Jack) How are you, Mr. Hanson? Can I get you anything?
Jack: Oh, no thanks, Ed. I think I'm finding everything I need. (begins speaking to himself as Mr. Crandle returns to the counter) Let's see, Annie wanted some sugar and flour -- that's over there. Eggs -- on the other side of the store. Vanilla flavoring? I don't even know what that is! What is she going to do with that?
(As Jack is talking to himself and looking around the store, the Bellamy sisters enter.)
Maudie: Wasn't that just splendid? I would have never believed that he could play like that!
Claire: I haven't sung and laughed like that in years. That Tom Kingsman, why he's an angel, he is.
(Jack overhears the sisters talking and rolls his eyes and continues on a futile search for vanilla flavoring.)
Mr. Crandle: Well, you ladies sure seem happy today, but after all, it's Christmas Eve, isn't it? What's the source of your joy on this fine afternoon?
Claire: Mr. Crandle, you just wouldn't believe it. You just wouldn't.
Maudie: That's right, Ed. It is downright unbelievable.
Mr. Crandle: What is? What happened?
Claire: Well, if you must know, Maudie and I have just finished practicing for the Christmas Eve service at church tonight.
Maudie: For the first time in thirty years ... (Claire interrupts with an "ummh.") I mean twenty years ... (Claire interrupts again), I mean a long time, the Bellamy sisters will be singing!
Mr. Crandle: (astonished) You are? Well, that's just fantastic. It has been so long ...
Claire: (interrupts) Yes, since our papa died.
Mr. Crandle: Well, what happened?
Maudie: It was the strangest thing, really. Pastor Marsh sent a message for us to meet him at the church.
Claire: We thought he might want our ideas for Sunday's message.
Maudie: But when we got there, he wasn't there at all, but this young handyman fella was ...
Claire: His name is Tom Kingsman.
Maudie: I was getting to that. His name is Tom Kingsman ...
Claire: (interrupts) I said that.
Mr. Crandle: Uh, ladies, if you'll continue, please.
Maudie: Oh yes, of course. Sorry. Well, that Tom Kingsman was sitting at the piano when we came in and, oh, you should've heard what he was playing.
Claire: Straight from heaven, it was.
Maudie: It was just beautiful. When he saw us, he stopped. He asked us if we would like to join him. Well, I looked at Claire ...
Claire: (interrupts) And I looked at Maudie. We just had to join him.
Maudie: So we did, and oh my, it was glorious to sing once again.
Claire: Tom has a lovely voice, too, and when Brother Marsh walked in, well he asked us right there if we'd sing tonight.
Mr. Crandle: That's wonderful and a real blessing for the church, too. You know, that Tom Kingsman is a real good guy. He came in here this morning. He left me these. (pulls out a box of candy canes) He told me to give 'em out to any and everybody. Would you ladies like one?
(Maudie and Claire take one and smile at one another. Jack finally emerges from behind the shelves. He has heard all, but pretends to be oblivious.)
Jack: I found that vanilla stuff. Oh, Maudie, Claire, good afternoon. How are you doing?
Maudie: Just fine, thank you. (holds her candy cane in her hand where he can see it)
(Jack quickly pays for his stuff. Mr. Crandle sacks it. The Bellamy sisters just look at Jack. It is an awkward moment.)
Mr. Crandle: Thanks for coming in, Mr. Hanson. Merry Christmas! And oh, here, wait. Would you like one? (offers a candy cane to Jack)
Jack: (stares at candy cane) Uh, no. No thanks. (quickly leaves the store)
(The lights dim.)
Scene 9
(The lights come up on the living room of the Hanson home. Annie, Ashley, Taylor, and Tom are there. The room is different this time. There is a Christmas tree in the corner and stockings hung on the mantle. While Jack has been at the store, they have been decorating. Everyone is anxious for Jack to arrive.)
Annie: (hangs ornaments on the tree) Hurry, girls! Your dad will be back soon. We want everything to look just right.
Taylor: Mom, do you think Dad will be mad at us for doing this? We've never done it before. (hangs candy canes on the tree)
Annie: I hope not, dear, but I'm sure it will surprise him. Ashley, have you found it?
Ashley: (sitting on couch, looking at a Bible) Yes, Mother. Here it is. I can't wait to read it to him.
Annie: Good. Now Tom, did you arrange for Mr. Crandle to pick her up? The telegram said she would arrive by 7:00 tonight.
Tom: Sure did.
Ashley: I just can't wait until Father comes ...
Tom: (He has been helping with ornaments and also helped Ashley find the scripture. He smiles and hums a Christmas song.) You won't have to wait, Ashley. I think I hear your father coming up the walk now.
Annie: (nervous, but excited) Okay, girls, quick. Let's get in our places. Taylor, grab that plate of cookies. Tom, you're over there by the tree. Ashley, bring the Bible.
(All move quickly. Tom stands by the tree and the girls join their mother by the door. There is an anxious pause before Jack enters. Jack comes through the door, wearing his overcoat and hat.)
Ashley and Taylor: Merry Christmas, Daddy!
(Jack looks surprised, but not yet angry.)
Annie: Oh, Jack (hugs him, but he remains stiff), I know we don't usually do this, but this year, I don't know, it just seemed right.
(Jack removes his hat, but he still has his coat on.)
Ashley: Yeah, Dad. Tom explained to us about Christmas. Listen (begins to read from the Bible), "And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger ..."
(Jack stops her with a wave of his hand. He still hasn't said anything.)
Taylor: Look, Daddy, Momma and me, oops, I mean, Momma and I baked Christmas cookies. Do you want one?
Jack: (Stares at the cookies as Taylor offers him the plate. He picks up a cookie, but doesn't eat it. He stands and stares as his family looks at him, eagerly hoping that he'll join in. He speaks slowly, as if trying to control himself.) Uh, if you'll excuse me. I need something from the kitchen. (hurries away from the group)
Annie: Wait, Jack. I'll go with you ...
Jack: (quickly interrupts) No! (more calmly) No, that's all right.
(Annie, Ashley, and Taylor look sad.)
Tom: (to the ladies) You stay here. I'll check on Jack. (moves over to where Jack stands)
Jack: (angrily) What do you want?
Tom: I just want to help, Jack. What is it?
Jack: You've caused nothing but trouble since you've been here. Stirring up my family and getting them to do foolish things. You've got the whole town acting loopy. You're, you're ...
Tom: I'm what, Jack?
Jack: You're crazy, that's what.
Tom: Not exactly, Jack, but good try.
Jack: What are you talking about?
Tom: I know, Jack. I know.
Jack: You know what? (his anger is rising)
Tom: I know about you and Molly. I know about the little tree. I know about your father ...
Jack: (interrupts angrily) What? You don't know anything!
Tom: And I know about the candy canes and about ...
Jack: (Angrily cuts him off and storms back into the room with the ladies. Tom follows. As Jack speaks, his anger grows.) You don't know nothin'. And this Christmas foolishness (goes over to the decorated tree, grabs it, and throws it to the floor), it is nothin', I tell you. Nothin'! (storms out of the room, leaving Annie, Taylor, and Ashley dumbstruck)
(Tom goes over to Annie. The girls are huddled by their mother.)
Tom: It will be all right, Annie. Let's get this tree back up.
Annie: Yes, yes. Let's do. Hurry, girls. We don't want to be late for church tonight.
(The stage darkens as they begin to pick up what Jack has destroyed.)
Scene 10
(Jack is alone, walking the streets of Oak Hills. He is huffing and puffing because he has been running.)
Jack: Can you believe the nerve of that guy! I don't know what he's up to, but I will find out. Snooping around in our business. How can he know those things? He's been up to no good, that's for sure. What I can't figure out, though, is why Annie is acting so foolishly, and the children and the whole town! Has everyone gone nuts? (continues to pace back and forth nervously) I've got to do something. (stops as he notices a bright star in the sky) What in heaven's name is that? I've never seen a star so bright. (Jack is drawn to follow the brightness of the star. As he does, he gets closer to the church. He hears singing. From offstage, voices are singing "Joy To The World.") What's that song? It sounds familiar to me.
(Jack wanders in the direction of the church. The stage goes to black.)
Scene 11
(The final scene of the play takes place inside the church in Oak Hills. The whole town is there. They are standing and singing as Jack enters unobtrusively from the back. The congregation finishes. Pastor Marsh is at the front of the church directing.)
Roy: That was wonderful. And now to read the Christmas story from the gospel of Luke is Ashley Hanson.
(Ashley walks up to the front. Her friend, Sara, pats her on the back.)
Ashley: Until a few days ago, I didn't have any idea what this Christmas thing was all about. But thanks to my sister and my best friend, Sara, and, of course, Tom, now I know. Here it is. (begins to read the Bible) "And she brought forth her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. Now there were in the same country, shepherds abiding in the fields keeping watch over their flocks by night. And lo, the Angel of the Lord came upon them and the glory of the Lord shone round about them and they were sore afraid. But the angel said to them, 'Fear not! For behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day, in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.' "
Roy: Beautiful, Ashley. Now, before I share with you tonight, a young lady has asked to say a few words. Let's give a warm welcome to Taylor Hanson.
(The congregation applauds warmly. Tom, who is sitting beside Taylor, pats her on the back for encouragement.)
Taylor: (stands up front, nervously) Thank you, Pastor Marsh. Like Ashley said earlier, we didn't know anything about Christmas until a few days ago. But, I want to thank my friend, Tom. He helped me see what it really means. He taught me about the shepherds, the angels, and the Baby Jesus, and God's love. That's what really matters.
Miss Long: You tell them, child.
Taylor: (emotions rising) This is the best Christmas I've ever had. It would be perfect if ... (her voice breaks) if only my daddy could see it. I know a lot of you think my daddy is mean and angry. But he's not really. He just hasn't seen the miracle of what it's all about.
Jack: (He has been sitting in the back listening. He now stands and speaks. The congregation is surprised to see him. He walks up to where Taylor stands.) I haven't seen it, but it's because I haven't wanted to. I had so much anger in me that I couldn't stand the thought of something good and special, like Christmas. All I knew about this time of year was hate and disappointment. But listening to you all here (Tom, Annie, and Ashley have joined them up front) I see now that there is love -- God's love, and the love of family and friends.
Taylor: (takes a candy cane from Tom) Daddy, this is for you. It's more than candy, you know. The shape is a "J" for Jesus. The white shows us that we can be white as snow and the red reminds us of his blood. You see, Daddy, this candy cane represents the greatest gift of all.
(Jack takes the candy cane and smiles. Everyone claps and comes forward to congratulate Jack. Then there is a rustling down the center aisle. Mr. Crandle is coming in carrying bags. He is followed by a well-dressed lady.)
Kate: Oh, Mr. Crandle, you're here. And who is that with you?
(Before Mr. Crandle can speak, Jack has broken through the crowd. He comes to the lady and they hug.)
Jack: Molly! Is that you? Oh, Molly! (hugs her) Everyone, this is my sister, Molly, from New York. How did you get here?
Molly: Annie wired me and told me this was going to be a special Christmas. Told me I shouldn't miss it. I came right away. Mr. Crandle here picked me up at the train station. Well, Jackie, is this one special?
Jack: You bet it is, Molly. It sure is. (He hands her a candy cane. They smile at one another. Then Jack mouths a "thank you" to Tom who is leaving out of the back of the church.)
(The entire cast then leaves the stage, handing out candy canes to all in the audience.)
The End
Jack Hanson is a wealthy business owner, husband, and father, in that order. He is consumed by work and making money. For reasons no one knows, he hates Christmas. His wife and children have no tangible needs, but they lack joy and a real relationship with Jack. They don't celebrate Christmas. Things change, though, when Jack hires a "happy go lucky" stranger to fix some things around the house. This "Christmas Stranger" brings joy and laughter to the Hanson home. Jack's wife and children begin to understand Christmas. Then, the four of them attempt an even greater challenge -- to break through Jack's hard shell. That's when Jack remembers what it all means from "The Christmas Stranger."
Characters
Roy Marsh -- minister of the church in Oak Hills
Kate Marsh -- Roy's wife and director of the children's choir
Jack Hanson -- wealthy businessman in his late thirties to early forties
Sara James -- twelve-year-old who is Ashley Hanson's best friend
Tom Kingsman -- "handyman" who Jack hires to fix things around the house
Young Jack Hanson -- Jack as a ten-year-old (Scene 2)
Young Molly Hanson -- Jack's eight-year-old sister (Scene 2)
Grace Hanson -- Jack's mother
Robert Hanson -- Jack's father
Mrs. Firkins -- secretary at Hanson's Furniture
Mr. Wentworth -- wealthy businessman who deals with Jack
Annie Hanson -- Jack's wife
Taylor Hanson -- nine-year-old daughter of Jack and Annie
Ashley Hanson -- thirteen-year-old daughter of Jack and Annie
Miss Winifred Long -- older lady in town who has few friends
Maudie Bellamy -- town gossip who knows all the news and is eager to share
Claire Bellamy -- Maudie's sister, also a town gossip
Ed Crandle -- owner and operator of Crandle's General Store
Molly -- Jack's sister (Scene 11)
Setting
The story takes place in the town of Oak Hills in the early- to mid-1900s. Oak Hills is a typical small American town where everyone knows everyone else. The main industry in Oak Hills is Hanson Furniture, where some of the finest pieces of furniture are crafted. People from all over long for a Hanson piece of furniture.
Scene 1 -- town square
Scene 2 -- small wooden house in the plains of Kansas
Scene 3 -- office of Hanson's Furniture Store
Scene 4 -- outside the Hanson home
Scene 5 -- living room of the Hanson home
Scene 6 -- in front of Miss Long's home
Scene 7 -- living room of the Hanson home
Scene 8 -- Crandle's General Store
Scene 9 -- living room of the Hanson home
Scene 10 -- street in Oak Hills
Scene 11 -- Oak Hills church
Note: If the stage can be divided into three sections, then stage left could be the office of Hanson Furniture, Crandle's General Store, and the street in Oak Hills; center stage could be the town square and the living room of the Hanson home; and stage right could be the small wooden house in Kansas, the outside of the Hanson home, and in front of Miss Long's house. Center stage can also serve as the church.
Props
Christmas tree
Christmas ornaments
Christmas stockings
Candy canes
Empty bottle
Table
Plate of food
Drinking glass
Office furniture
Briefcase
Piece of paper (signifying a contract)
Pen
Purse
Stryfoam balls (used as snowballs)
Cane
Chairs
Mugs
Couch
Simulated fireplace
Groceries
Grocery bag
Christmas decorations
Plate of cookies
Church furniture
Bible
Shelves
Money -- coins only
Costumes
Clothing should be appropriate for the early- to mid-1900s. Tom Kingsman wears overalls. Grace Hanson is dressed in tattered clothing, with a scarf in her hair and an apron on. Miss Winifred Long is a classy dresser and the Bellamy sisters are flamboyant in their dress.
Running Time
Approximately sixty minutes
Scene 1
(As the lights come up, people are in the town square of Oak Hills. A crowd is milling. Some are shopping and some are talking.)
Roy: Kate, are we ready for the children's program tomorrow night?
Kate: I think we are. Our last practice is this afternoon.
Roy: Great. Oh look, there's Jack Hanson. I want to invite him to church tomorrow night.
Kate: (frowns) He's such a grump. I don't think he'll come.
Roy: (smiles) Come on, Kate. You never know what might happen. (approaches Jack, who is fighting his way through the busy town square) Good day, Jack. How are you?
Jack: Not good at all, pastor. Who is responsible for this mob? I can't even get to my office.
Roy: Relax, Jack. It's almost Christmas. Folks are getting some last minute shopping done and all sorts of things.
Jack: It's a waste of time in my book, preacher. Christmas is nothing.
Roy: (smiles) Jack, Jack, Jack. Grumpy on the outside, but soft and gooey on the inside (pats Jack on the stomach) just like a marshmallow toasted over a fire. See you later, Jack, and Merry Christmas!
Jack: Hmmph! I'll show him who's soft ... (turns to leave, but runs into Sara) Hey! Watch where you're going! Don't I know you?
Sara: Hi, Mr. Hanson. I'm Sara. You know, Ashley's friend.
Jack: Oh yes, well move aside, child. I have work to do.
Sara: I'm sorry, Mr. Hanson. I just wanted to give you this. (hands Jack a candy cane) Mrs. Marsh gave them to us. I thought you might like to have it. Merry Christmas.
Jack: (stares at the candy cane, getting more upset and more angry; then grabs it and throws it to the ground) I don't want it! Now, get away. I have to go! (hurries off)
(Tom Kingsman has walked up behind Sara and observed this outburst. Sara turns to him, looking bewildered and sad.)
Sara: What, what did I do wrong?
Tom: Sara, you didn't do anything wrong. Ol' Jack there just has some bad memories, that's all. You did just fine.
Scene 2
(The light comes up in a small, wooden house somewhere in the plains of Kansas. Two children are huddled by the window, eagerly looking out. A small, poorly decorated Christmas tree stands in the corner. There are no presents under the tree. Empty stockings hang on the mantle. As the lights come up, Christmas carolers can be heard singing. The children are fascinated and point as the songs continue.)
Young Jack: Molly, look! Can you see them?
Young Molly: Yeah, Jack. Christmas makes me feel so wonderful. Do you think he'll come this time? He didn't last year.
Young Jack: I know, Molly. But he will this year, he's just gotta. Look! They're leaving.
Both: Bye! Bye! Thanks!
(The children are waving good-bye to the carolers as their mother enters. She is dressed in tattered but clean clothes. Her hair is tied back with a scarf. She enters wearing an apron. In the apron pocket are two candy canes that no one can see, yet.)
Grace: Wasn't that just marvelous children? (walks over and puts her arms around her children at the window)
Young Jack: Mom? You heard them, too?
Young Molly: I really love Christmas, don't you, Mom?
Grace: It is a very special time of year ...
Young Molly: (looks at Grace and interrupts) Do you think Santa will bring us any presents this year? He hasn't for a long time.
Grace: (looks out the window, with a pained expression) I hope so, dear. But you know that's not really what's important about Christmas, don't you?
Young Jack: We know, Mom. Christmas is about Jesus being born. That's why it's so special. God gave us a wonderful gift and that's why we give to others ...
Young Molly: (interrupts) And that's why Santa gives, too. I just know he'll come.
(The three of them hug by the window. The moment of quiet reverence and love is broken by the loud crash of a door.)
Robert: (enters loudly and speaks loudly; has been drinking and enters carrying an empty bottle) Well, Merry Christmas! And how is my family?
Young Molly: (runs and hugs Robert) Daddy, did you see them? They were here and I know he'll come, too. I just know it.
Robert: What are you talking about, child? I ain't seen nobody.
Young Jack: The Christmas carolers, Dad. That's what she means. Didn't you see them?
Robert: I ain't seen nobody ...
(Jack walks over and pulls Molly away. They stand by the little tree. Grace approaches Robert who has clumsily sat at the table. She has a plate of food and a drink.)
Grace: Robert, you must be hungry. Here, eat. I saved it for you.
(She sets the plate down. Robert begins to eat and drink without looking up.)
Grace: Uh, Robert, did you pick up the (looks over to her children who are looking at the few tree ornaments) presents?
Robert: (suddenly looks up, clearly angry) Presents? What presents? There ain't no presents this year and there ain't never gonna be any.
Grace: Robert, please. The children ...
Robert: (cuts her off and goes to where the children are standing) It's time you kids learned what this Christmas stuff really is. (The children back away from the tree, frightened.) It is nothing. That's it -- nothing. There ain't no presents. There ain't no Santa Claus and there ain't no tree (grabs the little tree and throws it to the floor; begins to leave, but stops at the door and pulls a few coins from his pocket) Oh yeah. Here's the change ... see if you can buy any presents with that. (leaves, throwing the coins on the floor)
(Grace stands dumbfounded. Molly is crying and Jack holds her, trying to comfort her.)
Grace: (walks over to her children and has them sit next to her on the floor) Your daddy didn't mean that. Don't you believe it, not a word.
Young Molly: You mean Christmas is not nothing? What about gifts?
Grace: (sighs and reluctantly pulls two candy canes from her pocket) Well, look what I found. I guess Santa must have left these for you two here in my pocket. And don't forget, Christmas is really about Jesus, okay? I've got to clean up ...
(Jack and Molly take the candy canes and stare at them. Grace gets up quickly and starts putting the house back together. Molly and Jack talk quietly.)
Young Molly: Jackie, why is it like this? How come we never get a real Christmas? All we ever get are these stupid candy canes.
Young Jack: (puts his arm around his little sister) Don't cry, Molly. It won't always be like this ...
Young Molly: (interrupts) Yes it will, Jack. It was like this last year and the year before. I think Daddy's right. For us, Christmas is nothing. (angrily throws her candy cane down and runs offstage)
(Young Jack is now alone on the stage. A single light illumines where he sits.)
Young Jack: (talks quietly to himself) Molly's right. She's right. Christmas is nothing and I hate it. And I hate these stupid candy canes. (breaks them in anger as the lights go to black)
Scene 3
(It is now about 25 years later in the town of Oak Hills. Lights come up in the office of Hanson Furniture. Jack is sitting at his desk. He is obviously cold. His secretary, Mrs. Firkins, enters.)
Mrs. Firkins: Mr. Hanson, a Mr. Wentworth is here to see you regarding an order for his stores. My, it sure is cold in here. The pipes aren't working yet?
Jack: Uh, no, Mrs. Firkins, they are not. Call for a handyman, will you? Thank you, Mrs. Firkins. Send in Mr. Wentworth. And do me a favor, will you? Close the curtains. That bunch on the square are irritating me.
Mrs. Firkins: Yes, sir. (turns to leave, pauses at the window wondering how he could call the festivities "irritating"; closes the curtains and begins to leave, but pauses) Oh, and sir, your wife sent a message that she will be stopping by soon. There is some problem at home.
Jack: Oh, very well. Thank you, Mrs. Firkins. Now, if you'll show Mr. Wentworth in.
(Mrs. Firkins leaves and Jack resumes working at his desk waiting for Mr. Wentworth. Mr. Wentworth enters, carrying his briefcase.)
Jack: Ah, Mr. Wentworth, good day to you. Have a seat, won't you? (Mr. Wentworth sits) It's a little chilly in here, but we'll soon have the heat back on. Can I get you anything?
Mr. Wentworth: (takes contract from his briefcase) Thank you, but no. Mr. Hanson, I've come today to finalize our contract. You'll see the total price we agreed upon at the bottom, for which you have agreed to provide tables, desks, and chairs to all my stores in the state, with the first shipment arriving in two weeks. Is everything in order?
Jack: (smiles) Oh, yes sir. We'll have the first shipment to you in two weeks. (both sign the contract) It has been a pleasure to do business with you.
Mr. Wentworth: (stands) It has been a pleasure working with you. (turns to leave, but stops and speaks) You know, Mr. Hanson, this deal will bring us both a lot of money, and that's good at Christmas, yes?
Jack: (smiles again) Oh yes. I've thought of that. Good day, Mr. Wentworth!
(Mr. Wentworth leaves as Jack's wife, Annie, enters.)
Annie: Jack, I'm sorry to bother you here, but we have a slight problem at home.
Jack: (looks concerned) We do? What is it?
Annie: Well, you know that swimming pool you've always wanted?
Jack: (puzzled) Yes?
Annie: We've got it.
Jack: We do?
Annie: We do -- in the bathroom.
Jack: What? What happened?
Annie: The pipes burst and water was everywhere. (starts to cry) It looked like a fountain. It was just water, gushing everywhere ...
Jack: Okay. It will be fine. (mutters) I don't have time to fix it now with this new order. I'll just have to find someone else to do it. (Tom Kingsman enters, whistling, with his hands in his pockets, just looking around) Hey, buddy. What are you doing?
Tom: Nothin'. Just lookin' around.
Jack: What do you mean, "just looking around"? Who sent you? What is your business here?
Tom: Business? Oh yeah. I got business, all right.
Jack: Well?
Tom: Well what?
Jack: What's your business?
Tom: Oh, that. I fix things.
Jack: That's great. Just come right over here. These pipes haven't worked all day. Cold as ice in here. Get these fixed and see the lady ... Hey, I know. Are you good at fixing things?
Tom: (smiles) One of the best.
Jack: Good, good. (pats Tom on the back) When you finish, see my wife here for our address. I have some work for you to do there. (to Annie) See? Everything's gonna be just great. (leaves) Now, to make sure that order gets started....
(Annie stands, looking after Jack. Tom stands off to the side, smiling.)
Annie: Uh, Mr. Uh ...
Tom: Kingsman, ma'am. Tom Kingsman.
Annie: Mr. Kingsman, here is our address.
Tom: Annie, what can I do for you?
Annie: Do for me? Oh, you mean what's the problem? It's the plumbing. Something happened. There's water everywhere. It's a mess.
Tom: I'll be right over. Is there anything else?
Annie: (hesitates) No, I guess that's all. (starts to leave)
Tom: Okay! (smiles) See ya soon. Oh, hold on a minute. I've got something for ya.
(Annie stops and Tom comes over to her.)
Tom: (hands Annie a candy cane) Here. It's almost Christmas. These things, well I like 'em. They remind me of what it's all about.
Annie: Thank you. (puts the candy cane in her purse) See you later, then?
Tom: Sure thing, ma'am.
Scene 4
(The scene shifts to outside the home of Jack and Annie Hanson. It is supposed to be cold and snowy outside. Ashley and Taylor are outside playing. Tom Kingsman approaches.)
Tom: ("forms" a styrofoam snowball and throws it at Taylor who is not looking) Ha! Gotcha!
Taylor: No fair. I wasn't looking. Hey, who are you?
Tom: Oh yeah, I'm sorry. My name is Tom -- Tom Kingsman. I'm here to fix some things in your house.
Ashley: It's about time. We still haven't got all the water out of the bathroom, yet. I'll go get Mother. (leaves)
Tom: So, Taylor, are you excited for Christmas?
Taylor: Nah. Daddy says, "Christmas is nothing" so we don't celebrate or anything. I don't really know very much about it.
Tom: (looks incredulously) You don't know about Christmas? Well, I'm glad we met, 'cause I know all there is to know about Christmas. I'm an expert on reindeer. Santa knows me by name. I know about important stuff, too -- like Bethlehem and a manger. Just ask me and I'll tell you.
Taylor: Well, I've always wondered about angels. Are there really angels?
Tom: You bet there are. They are a big part of Christmas. Hey, have you ever seen one?
Taylor: No.
Tom: Well, I have, and it is grand. Do you want to make an angel, right here in the snow?
Taylor: I don't know how.
Tom: It's easy. I'll show you!
(Tom and Taylor lay in the "snow" and make "snow angels." Tom pantomimes throwing snow on Taylor who does the same to Tom. They are laughing and giggling. Annie and Ashley enter. Annie is laughing, but Ashley looks grim and sober.)
Ashley: What are you doing? Your clothes are soaked and you'll catch pneumonia. Mother, tell this, this Tom what you think.
Annie: (smiles) I think it is a wonderful snow angel, Taylor.
Taylor: Thank you, Mommy. Would you like to make one?
Annie: Uh, I don't ...
Ashley: (interrupts) Don't be ridiculous. Mother would never do that. That is the silliest thing I have ever heard ...
Annie: (interrupts) I don't think I'd mind at all. (Ashley looks aghast, then turns and leaves as Annie begins to make a snow angel.) Will you show me how, Tom?
Tom: Sure. It's like this. (demonstrates and the three of them begin to flap their arms wildly in the snow, then rise)
Annie: I don't know when I've ever had so much fun. Mr. Kingsman, thank you.
Tom: My pleasure, ma'am. (Secretly, he and Taylor have styrofoam snowballs. They prepare to throw them at Annie, who notices them and they drop them.) Well, I guess I'd better get to work. Mr. Hanson is going to want things fixed around here.
Taylor: Oh, Tom, do you have to go? I wanted to talk some more. I have a lot of questions about Christmas.
Tom: I'll tell you what, if it is okay with your mom, then you can help me. Is that okay, Mrs. Hanson?
Annie: I guess so, though I don't know how much help she'll be.
Tom: I think she'll do just fine. Taylor, what have you heard about Christmas?
Taylor: Well ...
(Taylor and Tom exit, talking. Annie follows, smiling. Stage goes dark.)
Scene 5
(The stage lights up with Tom and Taylor in the living room of the Hanson house.)
Tom: Taylor, that job was harder than it looked. I didn't think we'd ever get that pipe fixed. Thanks for your help.
Taylor: Oh, Tom. You know I didn't do anything. Thank you for telling me about Christmas and Jesus. Thanks for this candy cane, too. (pulls it out and puts it in her mouth) I've never had one before. It is delicious!
Ashley: (enters and notices the candy cane) Hey! Where did you get that?
Taylor: None of your business. (Ashley glares at her) But, if you must know, Tom gave it to me. (Tom turns and smiles at Ashley)
Ashley: Mr. Kingsman, I do not think my father would want you to do that. We don't engage in such foolishness.
Tom: Ashley, I know what your father thinks, but what about you? What do you think of Christmas?
(Jack and Annie enter just as Ashley is about to answer the question.)
Jack: Hi, everyone. (all stop talking; Taylor hides the candy cane behind her back) What's going on?
Taylor: Oh, nothing Daddy. Tom and me fixed the pipes!
Jack: That would be Tom and I, dear.
Taylor: No, Daddy, it was Tom and me.
Jack: Taylor, I ...
Annie: (interrupts) You guys did a fantastic job! Tom is a great fixer! (looks over at Tom, smiling)
Jack: Yes, I suppose he is. Well, we must be going. Mr. Wentworth has generously offered to take us to dinner. It will be quite refreshing. Perhaps we can talk some more business. Come along, Annie. We shouldn't be late. (leaves)
Annie: (sighs) I look forward to a lovely evening. Good-bye.
Tom: Have a nice time and Merry Christmas!
Jack: (stops and angrily turns to face Tom) Mr. Kingsman, I would ask you to refrain from using those words around me or my family. We are quite content as we are. We do not need to celebrate such foolishness. You have no right to ...
Annie: (interrupts and tugs on Jack's arm) Jack, we should go. You don't want to be late.
Jack: (calms down) Yes, you're right. Let's go. Mr. Kingsman, I'll be watching you.
Tom: (smiles) I'll be watching you, too, Jack.
(As Jack and Annie leave, Sara enters.)
Sara: Hi, Ashley. I thought I'd come over. I know you don't normally do "Christmas stuff" and all but, well, I wondered if you wanted to go with some of us to Miss Long's house. We're gonna sing to her and see if she'll let us ride our sleds down her hill.
Ashley: Oh, Sara, I don't know. I have a lot of studying to do and ...
Taylor: (interrupts) Oh, Ashley, you can study anytime. Let's go. That is, if I can come, too?
Sara: Sure you can. More is better.
Tom: Good. Then I think I'll come, too. There's nothing I like better than to sing and go sledding with friends.
Taylor: Well, Ashley, what do you say? Will you come?
Sara: Yeah, Ashley, join in.
Ashley: Oh, all right. I'll do it.
Scene 6
(As the lights come up on stage, the children and Tom are in front of Miss Long's house. They will sing and pantomime sledding.)
Sara: Hey, look! It's Pastor Marsh.
Roy: Hi, everyone. Kate and I are glad to see you. Sleds are ready, but first, the concert.
Kate: Is everyone ready? Sing out loud and strong, now. Let's make sure she hears us.
(All loudly sing Christmas carols. Shortly thereafter, Miss Long appears.)
Miss Long: (enters, swinging her cane wildly) What in blue blazes is going on here? Who are you and why are you here?
Taylor: Merry Christmas, Miss Long! We wanted to come by and sing to you, so you could have some, you know, Christmas cheer.
(The children all nod in agreement and chime in with, "Yeah," "Right.")
Roy: Miss Long, we figured you might like a little company so we decided to pay you a visit. We won't stay long ...
Tom: (interrupts) Merry Christmas, Winnie! (hands Miss Long a candy cane) Here have one. I've got plenty.
Miss Long: (takes the candy cane and looks at it as the group prepares to leave) Hey, wait a minute there, sonny. You just got here. What's that over there? Sleds, huh? You were hoping to use my hill to sled down.
Kate: Well, Miss Long. I can't lie to you. That was our hope.
Miss Long: Lie to me! Dearie, you'd better not lie to me. I've been known to cane a few whippersnappers in my day! (swings her cane wildly at them, then calms down) Why yes, I can remember sledding. My papa would take us up to the very top of this hill. We called it "Terrifying Hill." We would climb on the toboggan, the three of us, and then he would push. We would go flying down the hill. (pantomimes sledding, causing the children to laugh) Whatcha' laughin' at, you youngsters? I can still do it, I bet.
Taylor: Will you, Miss Long?
Miss Long: Will I what?
Tom: You know, Winnie. Will you go sledding with us?
(The children and Mr. and Mrs. Marsh encourage her, saying, "Yes," "Go," "Please.")
Miss Long: Well, it has been a long time, but I think I still got it in these old bones. Come on, you urchins. Keep up and don't dawdle.
(The group begins to march together around the stage. As they walk, the Bellamy sisters approach.)
Claire: Maudie, do you see what I see? I can hardly believe my eyes! Is that old Winnie Long out there with those children? What in heaven's name does she think she's doing?
Maudie: Claire, if I hadn't seen her with my own eyes, I wouldn't have believed it. That old bat is gonna break her neck. Someone should tell her to act her age. It just ain't proper, I tell ya.
(The group approaches the Bellamy sisters, with Miss Long in the lead.)
Miss Long: Well, well, well. If it isn't the Tell-All twins. How are you, Claire and Maudie?
Claire: Why, we're just fine, Winnie. But I must say, we are a mite surprised by your choice of activity.
Maudie: What she means is, "What are you thinking of, woman?" You just can't go prancing around in the snow like that.
Miss Long: That's what I like about you, Maudie. You're so sensitive. You know, for a long time, I had forgotten what joy comes from Christmas.
Claire: Well, I never ...
Miss Long: (interrupts) And that's the problem, Claire. Now if you'll excuse us, we have a date with "Terrifying Hill."
(Miss Long leads the group. As they pass by Maudie and Claire, Tom hands them both a candy cane and smiles. The scene closes with the Bellamys leaving on one side of the stage and the group leaving on the other side.)
Scene 7
(The lights come up on the living room in the Hanson house. Tom and Taylor are sitting by the fire, drinking hot chocolate, while Ashley is sitting on the couch.)
Taylor: That was so much fun, Tom. Who would believe that ol' Miss Long could sled like that! She went flying over that bump. She must've been three feet in the air! (pantomimes Miss Long flying through the air; while Ashley sits quietly, listening)
Tom: (laughing) Well, you might say she was soaring with the angels.
Taylor: (giggles) Miss Long is really a nice lady. I don't think anyone has ever wished her a "Merry Christmas" before. She seemed to be surprised.
Tom: It has been a while, that's for sure. Miss Long remembers, though. She knows what it's all about.
Taylor: And thanks to you, Tom, I do, too.
Ashley: (hesitantly) Uh, Tom, Mr. Kingsman. I've been listening to you and Taylor and I watched Miss Long today. I've never seen her like that before. I know it has to be something about this Christmas thing, but I, well, I don't know what it is. Will you tell me?
Tom: Ashley, I would love to. Christmas is about love -- God's love. He sent his Son, Jesus, so that people could go to heaven and be with him forever. It's like the old Christmas song, "Silent Night." Sing it with me, Taylor.
(Tom and Taylor sing "Silent Night." At the conclusion, Tom gives Ashley a candy cane.)
Ashley: Thank you. (looks down at the candy cane in her hand) I feel so foolish. Sara and all my friends were right. Tom, our family has missed so much.
Annie: (enters and looks around, smiling) Hey, what's going on here?
Tom: Oh, nothin' ...
Ashley: (interrupts) It's not nothing, Tom. It's not. Oh, Mom. (runs to her mother and hugs her tightly)
Taylor: (looks at Tom) Thanks for helping my sister. There's one more thing to fix, though ... (pulls him down and whispers in his ear)
Scene 8
(This scene opens in Crandle's General Store. It is Christmas Eve day. Jack is in the store, picking up a few items for dinner that evening.)
Mr. Crandle: (comes over to Jack) How are you, Mr. Hanson? Can I get you anything?
Jack: Oh, no thanks, Ed. I think I'm finding everything I need. (begins speaking to himself as Mr. Crandle returns to the counter) Let's see, Annie wanted some sugar and flour -- that's over there. Eggs -- on the other side of the store. Vanilla flavoring? I don't even know what that is! What is she going to do with that?
(As Jack is talking to himself and looking around the store, the Bellamy sisters enter.)
Maudie: Wasn't that just splendid? I would have never believed that he could play like that!
Claire: I haven't sung and laughed like that in years. That Tom Kingsman, why he's an angel, he is.
(Jack overhears the sisters talking and rolls his eyes and continues on a futile search for vanilla flavoring.)
Mr. Crandle: Well, you ladies sure seem happy today, but after all, it's Christmas Eve, isn't it? What's the source of your joy on this fine afternoon?
Claire: Mr. Crandle, you just wouldn't believe it. You just wouldn't.
Maudie: That's right, Ed. It is downright unbelievable.
Mr. Crandle: What is? What happened?
Claire: Well, if you must know, Maudie and I have just finished practicing for the Christmas Eve service at church tonight.
Maudie: For the first time in thirty years ... (Claire interrupts with an "ummh.") I mean twenty years ... (Claire interrupts again), I mean a long time, the Bellamy sisters will be singing!
Mr. Crandle: (astonished) You are? Well, that's just fantastic. It has been so long ...
Claire: (interrupts) Yes, since our papa died.
Mr. Crandle: Well, what happened?
Maudie: It was the strangest thing, really. Pastor Marsh sent a message for us to meet him at the church.
Claire: We thought he might want our ideas for Sunday's message.
Maudie: But when we got there, he wasn't there at all, but this young handyman fella was ...
Claire: His name is Tom Kingsman.
Maudie: I was getting to that. His name is Tom Kingsman ...
Claire: (interrupts) I said that.
Mr. Crandle: Uh, ladies, if you'll continue, please.
Maudie: Oh yes, of course. Sorry. Well, that Tom Kingsman was sitting at the piano when we came in and, oh, you should've heard what he was playing.
Claire: Straight from heaven, it was.
Maudie: It was just beautiful. When he saw us, he stopped. He asked us if we would like to join him. Well, I looked at Claire ...
Claire: (interrupts) And I looked at Maudie. We just had to join him.
Maudie: So we did, and oh my, it was glorious to sing once again.
Claire: Tom has a lovely voice, too, and when Brother Marsh walked in, well he asked us right there if we'd sing tonight.
Mr. Crandle: That's wonderful and a real blessing for the church, too. You know, that Tom Kingsman is a real good guy. He came in here this morning. He left me these. (pulls out a box of candy canes) He told me to give 'em out to any and everybody. Would you ladies like one?
(Maudie and Claire take one and smile at one another. Jack finally emerges from behind the shelves. He has heard all, but pretends to be oblivious.)
Jack: I found that vanilla stuff. Oh, Maudie, Claire, good afternoon. How are you doing?
Maudie: Just fine, thank you. (holds her candy cane in her hand where he can see it)
(Jack quickly pays for his stuff. Mr. Crandle sacks it. The Bellamy sisters just look at Jack. It is an awkward moment.)
Mr. Crandle: Thanks for coming in, Mr. Hanson. Merry Christmas! And oh, here, wait. Would you like one? (offers a candy cane to Jack)
Jack: (stares at candy cane) Uh, no. No thanks. (quickly leaves the store)
(The lights dim.)
Scene 9
(The lights come up on the living room of the Hanson home. Annie, Ashley, Taylor, and Tom are there. The room is different this time. There is a Christmas tree in the corner and stockings hung on the mantle. While Jack has been at the store, they have been decorating. Everyone is anxious for Jack to arrive.)
Annie: (hangs ornaments on the tree) Hurry, girls! Your dad will be back soon. We want everything to look just right.
Taylor: Mom, do you think Dad will be mad at us for doing this? We've never done it before. (hangs candy canes on the tree)
Annie: I hope not, dear, but I'm sure it will surprise him. Ashley, have you found it?
Ashley: (sitting on couch, looking at a Bible) Yes, Mother. Here it is. I can't wait to read it to him.
Annie: Good. Now Tom, did you arrange for Mr. Crandle to pick her up? The telegram said she would arrive by 7:00 tonight.
Tom: Sure did.
Ashley: I just can't wait until Father comes ...
Tom: (He has been helping with ornaments and also helped Ashley find the scripture. He smiles and hums a Christmas song.) You won't have to wait, Ashley. I think I hear your father coming up the walk now.
Annie: (nervous, but excited) Okay, girls, quick. Let's get in our places. Taylor, grab that plate of cookies. Tom, you're over there by the tree. Ashley, bring the Bible.
(All move quickly. Tom stands by the tree and the girls join their mother by the door. There is an anxious pause before Jack enters. Jack comes through the door, wearing his overcoat and hat.)
Ashley and Taylor: Merry Christmas, Daddy!
(Jack looks surprised, but not yet angry.)
Annie: Oh, Jack (hugs him, but he remains stiff), I know we don't usually do this, but this year, I don't know, it just seemed right.
(Jack removes his hat, but he still has his coat on.)
Ashley: Yeah, Dad. Tom explained to us about Christmas. Listen (begins to read from the Bible), "And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger ..."
(Jack stops her with a wave of his hand. He still hasn't said anything.)
Taylor: Look, Daddy, Momma and me, oops, I mean, Momma and I baked Christmas cookies. Do you want one?
Jack: (Stares at the cookies as Taylor offers him the plate. He picks up a cookie, but doesn't eat it. He stands and stares as his family looks at him, eagerly hoping that he'll join in. He speaks slowly, as if trying to control himself.) Uh, if you'll excuse me. I need something from the kitchen. (hurries away from the group)
Annie: Wait, Jack. I'll go with you ...
Jack: (quickly interrupts) No! (more calmly) No, that's all right.
(Annie, Ashley, and Taylor look sad.)
Tom: (to the ladies) You stay here. I'll check on Jack. (moves over to where Jack stands)
Jack: (angrily) What do you want?
Tom: I just want to help, Jack. What is it?
Jack: You've caused nothing but trouble since you've been here. Stirring up my family and getting them to do foolish things. You've got the whole town acting loopy. You're, you're ...
Tom: I'm what, Jack?
Jack: You're crazy, that's what.
Tom: Not exactly, Jack, but good try.
Jack: What are you talking about?
Tom: I know, Jack. I know.
Jack: You know what? (his anger is rising)
Tom: I know about you and Molly. I know about the little tree. I know about your father ...
Jack: (interrupts angrily) What? You don't know anything!
Tom: And I know about the candy canes and about ...
Jack: (Angrily cuts him off and storms back into the room with the ladies. Tom follows. As Jack speaks, his anger grows.) You don't know nothin'. And this Christmas foolishness (goes over to the decorated tree, grabs it, and throws it to the floor), it is nothin', I tell you. Nothin'! (storms out of the room, leaving Annie, Taylor, and Ashley dumbstruck)
(Tom goes over to Annie. The girls are huddled by their mother.)
Tom: It will be all right, Annie. Let's get this tree back up.
Annie: Yes, yes. Let's do. Hurry, girls. We don't want to be late for church tonight.
(The stage darkens as they begin to pick up what Jack has destroyed.)
Scene 10
(Jack is alone, walking the streets of Oak Hills. He is huffing and puffing because he has been running.)
Jack: Can you believe the nerve of that guy! I don't know what he's up to, but I will find out. Snooping around in our business. How can he know those things? He's been up to no good, that's for sure. What I can't figure out, though, is why Annie is acting so foolishly, and the children and the whole town! Has everyone gone nuts? (continues to pace back and forth nervously) I've got to do something. (stops as he notices a bright star in the sky) What in heaven's name is that? I've never seen a star so bright. (Jack is drawn to follow the brightness of the star. As he does, he gets closer to the church. He hears singing. From offstage, voices are singing "Joy To The World.") What's that song? It sounds familiar to me.
(Jack wanders in the direction of the church. The stage goes to black.)
Scene 11
(The final scene of the play takes place inside the church in Oak Hills. The whole town is there. They are standing and singing as Jack enters unobtrusively from the back. The congregation finishes. Pastor Marsh is at the front of the church directing.)
Roy: That was wonderful. And now to read the Christmas story from the gospel of Luke is Ashley Hanson.
(Ashley walks up to the front. Her friend, Sara, pats her on the back.)
Ashley: Until a few days ago, I didn't have any idea what this Christmas thing was all about. But thanks to my sister and my best friend, Sara, and, of course, Tom, now I know. Here it is. (begins to read the Bible) "And she brought forth her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. Now there were in the same country, shepherds abiding in the fields keeping watch over their flocks by night. And lo, the Angel of the Lord came upon them and the glory of the Lord shone round about them and they were sore afraid. But the angel said to them, 'Fear not! For behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day, in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.' "
Roy: Beautiful, Ashley. Now, before I share with you tonight, a young lady has asked to say a few words. Let's give a warm welcome to Taylor Hanson.
(The congregation applauds warmly. Tom, who is sitting beside Taylor, pats her on the back for encouragement.)
Taylor: (stands up front, nervously) Thank you, Pastor Marsh. Like Ashley said earlier, we didn't know anything about Christmas until a few days ago. But, I want to thank my friend, Tom. He helped me see what it really means. He taught me about the shepherds, the angels, and the Baby Jesus, and God's love. That's what really matters.
Miss Long: You tell them, child.
Taylor: (emotions rising) This is the best Christmas I've ever had. It would be perfect if ... (her voice breaks) if only my daddy could see it. I know a lot of you think my daddy is mean and angry. But he's not really. He just hasn't seen the miracle of what it's all about.
Jack: (He has been sitting in the back listening. He now stands and speaks. The congregation is surprised to see him. He walks up to where Taylor stands.) I haven't seen it, but it's because I haven't wanted to. I had so much anger in me that I couldn't stand the thought of something good and special, like Christmas. All I knew about this time of year was hate and disappointment. But listening to you all here (Tom, Annie, and Ashley have joined them up front) I see now that there is love -- God's love, and the love of family and friends.
Taylor: (takes a candy cane from Tom) Daddy, this is for you. It's more than candy, you know. The shape is a "J" for Jesus. The white shows us that we can be white as snow and the red reminds us of his blood. You see, Daddy, this candy cane represents the greatest gift of all.
(Jack takes the candy cane and smiles. Everyone claps and comes forward to congratulate Jack. Then there is a rustling down the center aisle. Mr. Crandle is coming in carrying bags. He is followed by a well-dressed lady.)
Kate: Oh, Mr. Crandle, you're here. And who is that with you?
(Before Mr. Crandle can speak, Jack has broken through the crowd. He comes to the lady and they hug.)
Jack: Molly! Is that you? Oh, Molly! (hugs her) Everyone, this is my sister, Molly, from New York. How did you get here?
Molly: Annie wired me and told me this was going to be a special Christmas. Told me I shouldn't miss it. I came right away. Mr. Crandle here picked me up at the train station. Well, Jackie, is this one special?
Jack: You bet it is, Molly. It sure is. (He hands her a candy cane. They smile at one another. Then Jack mouths a "thank you" to Tom who is leaving out of the back of the church.)
(The entire cast then leaves the stage, handing out candy canes to all in the audience.)
The End
