It was time to tackle the third drawer.

The third drawer of my office desk is where old scripts languish. There’s no practical reason for them to be taking up space—except that I’m sentimental. These are plays from the mid-1980s to the mid-1990s. They were produced, enjoyed, and applauded. They did their job. But the curtain has come down on them, and it won’t be going up again.

So, I re-read each script and journaled ideas that might be worth rewriting. I glued in the cover art of one play because it still makes me laugh, but I didn’t keep the whole script. Then I came across an unfinished Christmas play about toys coming to life.

I was curious to revisit the toy characters: a mischievous monkey, a wise old teddy bear, a souvenir swagman, a steam engine, and a bride doll. And I found myself wondering, “Where have all the bride dolls gone?” 

Bride dolls aren’t a top trend among children in 2025. Today’s favourites are interactive and tech-enhanced—dolls that talk, move, and connect to apps. Bride dolls haven’t vanished entirely, but they’re more likely tucked into collector sets or themed play kits than sitting on mainstream toy shelves.

I’ve decided to rewrite the Christmas script, but with a few changes to the cast of characters.  As much as I enjoy writing the dialogue for the toy monkey, I’m replacing him with a robot.  I’m also replacing the bride doll with a fashion doll.  (I’m not altogether giving up on a bride doll in a future play.  After all, she represents a covenant relationship that gives the Church identity and purpose, hope and expectation, as well as lessons in faithfulness and preparation.)   The trend in toys may change, but the message of Christmas doesn’t.  The working title for the play is “The Playroom Nativity Encounter”.  I cannot predict when the play will be finished and published online; however, I do have another play about toys in a playroom that’s available as a free PDF download. 

The Proud Tin Soldier

The Proud Tin Soldier features a lively cast: Toy Soldier, Jack-in-the-Box, Ballerina Teddy Bear, and Baby Doll. At the stroke of midnight, the nursery transforms—every toy springs to life!

When a stash of batteries is spotted high on a shelf, Toy Soldier is entrusted with guarding them. But Jack-in-the-Box sees more than mere energy—he sees power. With sly flattery aimed at Toy Soldier’s pride, Jack hatches a plan to trick him into claiming the batteries for himself.  Unaware of Jack’s cunning, Toy Soldier declares, “Mission Alkaline is a go!”

I won’t spoil the rest, but let’s just say: the letter blocks play a clever role in spelling out Toy Soldier’s dilemma.

You can download the free script here: https://cooeekidsministry.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Play-The-Proud-Tin-Soldier-1.pdf